Ibuprofen
Ibuprofen has anti-inflammatory properties in addition to its analgesic and antipyretic effects. Ibuprofen can be used for mild to moderately severe pain, such as headaches, migraines, attacks of gout or similar. Unlike paracetamol, ibuprofen cannot be used safely throughout pregnancy.
Ibuprofen must not be taken in the last trimester because of possible harm to mother and child. There are no contraindications to its use after birth and during lactation. There are also numerous reports on the use of ibuprofen during the breastfeeding period.
The active ingredient ibuprofen and its degradation products only pass from the maternal circulation in small quantities into the mother’s milk (and thus in small quantities into the baby). No adverse effects on the infant have been identified from the numerous studies. Ibuprofen is also approved as a painkiller for infants. This explains why there is no danger to the infant if used in short and small doses, which would interrupt breastfeeding. The exact dose for nursing mothers should be discussed with a gynecologist or pediatrician.
Aspirin
Aspirin® is one of the oldest active ingredients in the class of analgesics. Its spectrum of activity is similar to that of ibuprofen. It has an anti-inflammatory, antipyretic and analgesic effect.
Aspirin also inhibits platelet aggregation and thus has a blood-thinning effect. There have been numerous studies on the use of Aspirin® during the breastfeeding period. Apart from one infant who had harmful high concentrations of salicylates in the blood plasma after his mother was treated with 4g of Aspirin® daily, there are no reports of symptoms in breastfed children.
Based on the data available, there is no reason not to take Aspirin® occasionally, as recommended in the package insert. However, regular intake should be avoided. Overall, the active ingredients paracetamol or ibuprofen are preferable to Aspirin® as painkillers.
Which painkillers should I take for headaches?
If it should come to headache in the lactation period, nursing mothers can try to counteract this with home remedies. It is very important to drink enough to prevent headaches.In acute cases, two large glasses of water should be drunk first. The smell of peppermint can also be beneficial.
Peppermint oil, which is applied to the temples in a circular motion, can help relieve tension headaches. If these tips do not bring the desired relief, painkillers can be used. A short-term, low-dose application of paracetamol, ibuprofen or Aspirin® is not harmful to the infant.
However, the recommended maximum dosages should not be exceeded. Paracetamol or ibuprofen should be preferred to Aspirin®. Long-term use of painkillers during lactation is not recommended, as the effects on the infant are not sufficiently clarified with long-term medication. A doctor should be consulted if the symptoms persist. In consultation with the doctor, the dosage of the painkillers may be adjusted or weaning may be necessary.