Contents
icy hot patch safe while breastfeeding
Are you nursing around the clock, but feeling a little less “glow” and a lot more “ow” lately? Have you tried every lotion, potion, and essential oil under the sun to ease your aching muscles? Well, have no fear because Icy Hot is here! But wait, can we actually use these heavenly patches while breastfeeding? As a sleep-deprived and sore-limbed momma myself, I had to investigate. So, I did some digging and put my research hat on to find out if Icy Hot patches are safe to use while feeding our little bundles of joy. And let me tell you, the answers may surprise you!
What is Icy Hot?
Icy Hot is a real lifesaver when it comes to relieving pain. They’ve got all sorts of products, like creams and gels. The icy hot patches are the bee’s knees! They’ve got a special combo of two active ingredients, menthol and methyl salicylate, that’ll make your skin feel all sorts of tingly.
Menthol gives you that cool sensation, while methyl salicylate warms things up. It’s like a little dance party for your muscles! If you’re feeling sore after a tough workout, Icy Hot patches are the perfect solution. You just paste them right onto the spot that’s giving you trouble, and let the magic happen.
The best part is that these patches come in all shapes and sizes, so you can use them on pretty much any body part. Whether you need relief for your neck, back, or knee, they’ve got you covered. Plus, they’re long-lasting. Talk about convenience!
Safety Concerns and Warnings
Icy Hot patches may be the cat’s meow when it comes to pain relief, but they come with some important safety concerns that you gotta keep in mind. Just like any other medication or medical product, it’s crucial to read the warnings and consider them carefully.
For example, these patches aren’t recommended for kids under 12, and you definitely don’t wanna use them on broken or irritated skin. If you are sensitive to salicylates or you’re taking blood-thinning meds, use these patches with caution.
If you’re a breastfeeding momma, you gotta be extra careful. The active ingredients in these patches can seep through your skin and get into your breast milk. So, it’s totally understandable if you’re wondering whether it’s safe to use Icy Hot patches while breastfeeding.
Reason behind muscle pain during Breastfeeding
Before we start talking about whether it’s safe to use Icy Hot patches while breastfeeding, let’s get to the root of the problem. Why do nursing moms get sore muscles in the first place? It’s not rocket science, really. There are a few things that can cause muscle pain while breastfeeding:
- Holding positions: Holding your baby in the same position for long periods of time can strain your muscles and cause soreness.
- Poor posture: Leaning forward or hunching over while nursing can put extra pressure on your back and shoulders, leading to pain.
- Hormones: During breastfeeding, your body produces a hormone called relaxin that can cause your ligaments and joints to loosen, making you more susceptible to muscle strain.
- While muscle pain may be a common experience for nursing mothers, it’s important to find safe and effective ways to manage the discomfort.
Is icy hot patch safe while breastfeeding?
Can you use Icy Hot patches while breastfeeding or not? The answer is slightly complex since there are varying opinions among healthcare professionals.
The Icy Hot website advises against using the patches while nursing, but the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) generally considers menthol and methyl salicylate, the active ingredients in Icy Hot, to be safe for breastfeeding moms as long as they’re used in moderation and not on the breasts. The AAP also suggests that nursing moms avoid using large amounts of topical pain relievers and consult with their doctor before using any.
On the other hand, a study published in the journal Breastfeeding Medicine found that only trace amounts of the active ingredients in topical pain relievers are actually passed to breast milk. The study examined the breast milk of nine nursing mothers who used various topical pain relievers, including Icy Hot, on their skin. The researchers discovered that the amount of active ingredients transferred to breast milk was negligible, leading them to conclude that these products are safe for breastfeeding mothers.
I would recommend it ‘s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your own health and your baby’s well being. If you’re thinking of using Icy Hot patches while breastfeeding, check with your healthcare provider first to determine if it’s safe for you and your baby.
Alternatives to Icy Hot Patches
If you’re looking for a safer alternative to Icy Hot patches, there are a number of natural remedies and techniques you can try to ease muscle pain while breastfeeding. Here are a few options:
- Stretching and exercise: Gentle stretching and exercise can help to alleviate muscle soreness and tension.
- Massage: A relaxing massage can help to loosen tight muscles and relieve pain.
- Heat and cold therapy: Applying heat or cold to the affected area can help to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. You can try using a warm compress, such as a hot water bottle or warm towel, or a cold compress, such as a bag of ice or frozen vegetables wrapped in a towel.
- Natural remedies: There are a number of natural remedies that can help to ease muscle pain, such as lavender essential oil, arnica cream, and turmeric.
Conclusion
Icy Hot patches can be a useful tool for easing muscle pain and they come with safety concerns for breastfeeding mothers. While the active ingredients in the patches are usually considered safe for nursing mothers in moderation, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider before use to determine if it’s safe for you and your baby.
If you’re looking for a safer alternative to Icy Hot patches, there are a number of natural remedies and techniques you can try to ease muscle pain while breastfeeding. Remember to prioritize your health and the health of your baby, and always seek the advice of a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or questions.
Breastfeeding may come with its physical challenges, but with a little bit of self-care and support, you can navigate them with ease. Happy nursing!
I would stay connected and keep you updated with parenting tips, pregnancy guides, creative ideas, easy crafts, and Free Printables. Subscribe to Colossalumbrella to get new ideas delivered to your inbox. Follow me on Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter, and Instagram.
Disclaimer: The content of this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
