Can You Take Boric Acid While Breastfeeding?

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By Krystal Duhaney | Updated on Dec 3, 2023
Image for article Can You Take Boric Acid While Breastfeeding?

You can use boric acid while breastfeeding, but there are some important points to consider.

Let's break this down: boric acid is used as a suppository for treating certain types of vaginal infections. A small amount of boric acid (about 6%) does get absorbed into your system, so it's likely a small amount will make its way into your breast milk.

When it comes to using boric acid for a short period (fewer than seven days), the risk to a breastfed infant is generally low. But if the treatment goes beyond that, especially for exclusively breastfed babies, the risk could potentially increase 1 . That's because of the long half-life of boric acid, which is around 20 hours.

Just remember to keep an eye on your little one for any potential side effects, like changes in mental status, vomiting or diarrhea, jaundice or rash. And before you start any new medication, it's a smart idea to have a chat with your healthcare provider, just to make sure you're on the right track.

Pregnant woman holding her stomach on a bed with a plant in the background

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  1. Emily Conard Kaytlin Krutsch"Boric Acid for Recurrent Vaginal Infections"https://www.infantrisk.com/content/boric-acid-recurrent-vaginal-infections#_Safety_of_Boric.


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Updated on Dec 3, 2023

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Can You Take Boric Acid While Breastfeeding?

 Krystal Duhaney Profile Photo
By Krystal Duhaney | Updated on Dec 3, 2023
Image for article Can You Take Boric Acid While Breastfeeding?

You can use boric acid while breastfeeding, but there are some important points to consider.

Let's break this down: boric acid is used as a suppository for treating certain types of vaginal infections. A small amount of boric acid (about 6%) does get absorbed into your system, so it's likely a small amount will make its way into your breast milk.

When it comes to using boric acid for a short period (fewer than seven days), the risk to a breastfed infant is generally low. But if the treatment goes beyond that, especially for exclusively breastfed babies, the risk could potentially increase 1 . That's because of the long half-life of boric acid, which is around 20 hours.

Just remember to keep an eye on your little one for any potential side effects, like changes in mental status, vomiting or diarrhea, jaundice or rash. And before you start any new medication, it's a smart idea to have a chat with your healthcare provider, just to make sure you're on the right track.

Pregnant woman holding her stomach on a bed with a plant in the background

Want evidence-based health & wellness advice for fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum delivered to your inbox?

Your privacy is important to us. By subscribing you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Expectful uses only high-quality sources, including academic research institutions, medical associations, and subject matter experts.

  1. Emily Conard Kaytlin Krutsch"Boric Acid for Recurrent Vaginal Infections"https://www.infantrisk.com/content/boric-acid-recurrent-vaginal-infections#_Safety_of_Boric.


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