Breastfeeding and Medication Use in Kidney Disease
Manisha Singh
Abstract
Breastfeeding is a challenge for mothers with CKD or transplant, especially as they are dealing with chronic illness requiring procedures and multiple medications. It is critical to understand the impact that medications have on breastfeeding and use available resources to help guide the mother who may want to breastfeed despite these obstacles. In addition, 1 must be aware of the changes in breast milk during dialysis. There is additional need to understand the impact of medications on lactation itself and the effect of these medications on the infant. Breastfeeding is recommended whenever possible, with or without supplemental nutritional support as needed by the baby. The advantages such as improved neurodevelopmental outcomes in preterm and very-low-birth-weight babies far outweigh the risks associated with medication use, especially as alternative medications that are safe in lactation and are available for most conditions. This information is available on LactMed® database, an invaluable resource for health care providers. Nationally, breastfeeding remains lower than optimal, impacted by multiple disparities such as race, age of the mother, socioeconomic status, and disease burden.53Section on BreastfeedingBreastfeeding and the use of human milk.Pediatrics. 2012; 129: e827-e841Crossref PubMed Scopus (3823) Google Scholar Providers should encourage and address barriers to breastfeeding where appropriate for mothers with CKD, on dialysis, or after transplantation. Providers are also encouraged to refer to the resources provided to better facilitate lactation and breastfeeding to optimally support their patient.