Has anyone continued or started Allergy Shots while breastfeeding? My doctor does not advise this, but I am finding conflicting information on the internet. I know they are not advised during pregnancy, but I am finally finished being pregnant and would like to start the shots as soon as possible! Any information would be greatly appreciated!
I would definitely advise against getting shots while you're breastfeeding. :( Sorry! (I'm also against the flu-shot.)
I'd ask a few different people. Call a certified lactation consultant, a pediatrician, and the allergist. I know it's safe to take something like Benedryl, you just don't want to take a decongestant because it will not only dry out your sinuses, but your milk supply as well. Any pharmacist can tell you which allergy meds are safe while breastfeeding (they look it up in the right places), I'm not sure if they can advise you on allergy shots.
Congrats on your baby and choice to breastfeed:)
This site might help:
Hi A.,
I would advise against it. Even if only the allergen is present you don't know how that will affect your baby. Make sure you are taking a prenatal that is absorbing. Most you just swallow, void and 15% of it absorbs if you're lucky. If your immune system is working the way it should, you should have no problem with allergic reactions to anything natural. there are also natural immune boosters that are safe for the baby as well.
God bless,
M.
Thomas Hale, Ph.D. is a well respected researcher of medication and breastfeeding. I own his newest book on drugs and breastfeeding (Medications and Mother's Milk, 13th ed.) Allergy shots are considered an L1: safest possible for a breastfeeding mom. Here is what he says:
"Allergy injections consist of protein and carbohydrate substances from plants, animals and other species. There are no reported untoward effects. They are unlikely to enter milk."
If you have a fax, I can copy the page and fax it to you for your physician.
