can you take ibuprofen when breastfeeding

Ibuprofen is generally considered safe to take while breastfeeding. It passes into breast milk in very small amounts and is unlikely to harm the baby. It has a short half-life, meaning it breaks down quickly in the body, and studies show that the amount passing to the infant through breast milk is minimal. Standard doses, such as 400 mg every 4-6 hours not exceeding 1200 mg per day, are typically safe. However, it is recommended to take the lowest effective dose and to consult a healthcare provider, especially if the infant is premature or has kidney problems or if the mother has certain health conditions like stomach ulcers or asthma. Mothers are often advised to take ibuprofen right after breastfeeding or before the baby's longest sleep to minimize exposure. Extended-release forms of ibuprofen should be avoided. In summary, ibuprofen is a preferred pain reliever option for breastfeeding mothers but should be used cautiously under medical advice in specific circumstances.