Doctor While Breastfeeding?

My OB told me to only come to her from the second I got pg until I was released from her care 6 weeks post-birth. Since your daughter is 3 months old, it's a gray area, so truthfully, I would go to whoever you think will give you the best care. If your OB is a good OB, s/he won't mind you coming to them if you have concerns about meds and breastfeeding. GPs should know that stuff too, but OBs might be more up-to-date...

You see the same doctors you would normally see whether or not you're breastfeeding (e.g., GP for colds, etc.). You just need to make them aware that you are breastfeeding, so that they can prescribe any necessary medicines that are either okay if the baby gets some (e.g., penicillin) or are known to not be excreted in the breastmilk (there are very few of those, so you do want to limit Rx drugs and supplements to only those that are absolutely necessary). Many La Leche league leaders have access to information on the safety of various Rx drugs for breastfeeding, so you should always double check. And, even triple check by asking the pharmacist. This is really a similar issue that folks that are allergic/intolerant to certain ingredients - you just have to make sure the doctor is aware, but unfortunately, they often don't know. So, you do need backup resources.

Hi, I go to my OB/Gyn. Best wishes!

From a past experience I would only see my OB if I were in your situation. While breastfeeding my son and trying to get pregnant again I went to see my GP who I usually really like. She prescribed Ativan for anxiety and sleep. I researched it and I absolutley would not take this while trying to concieve, being pregnant or breastfeeding. I felt it was very irresponsible of her to prescribe this type of drug to a patient in my situation. It is highly addictive and can't be taken during pregnancy. Why would I take such a risk. Hopefully your GP is more responsible but just to be safe I'd see my OB. My OB said he could see me for anything at all I needed. I have complete faith in him as a dr.

Kristin,

I see my OB, but I also believe any and all physicians will and should be able to help you with your medical needs.

Probably the definitive guide for meds and breastfeeding is this book (you can search on it too): http://www.amazon.com/Medications-Mothers-Milk/dp/0977226...

Keep in mind too, just because they're an MD doesn't mean they really know much about breastfeeding. That's where Dr Hale's book comes in handy. I also think LLL is a great resource.

Regarding which Dr to see... Whichever one makes best sense. In theory, they should all be knowledgeable regarding which meds are ok for breastfeeding moms. If you have a sinus infection, you'd see your GP. For something post delivery, your OB.

I personally found my OB to be the best resource for breastfeeding issues simply because she had done it 3 times and was very pro breastfeeding. My GP was also very supportive of my extended breastfeeding. If I had listened to my son's ped, who knows if I would have breast fed for as long as I did. A lot of Dr's say they're pro breastfeeding, but when it comes down to it, really aren't. Sad but true I've found.