Retin A And Breastfeeding

Retin-A, Tretinoin, is an acne medication. Some women use Retin A before they become pregnant, give birth and breastfeed. While some drugs are safe to use during breastfeeding, Retin-A should be used with caution. Dr. Thomas Hale, Medications, and Mother's Milk, says that the absorption of Retin A, if used topical, on the skin, is minimal, therefore you can use it while breastfeeding. What is Retin-A? A drug used to treat acne. Retin A is a topical ointment, applied to the skin. It is a form of Vitamin A and helps renew your skin. Retin A should only be used as prescribed. When using Retin A, you should avoid the sunlight or artificial UV rays.Use a sunscreen with at least a minimum SPF 15 and wear protective clothing if you must go out in the sun. Avoid getting Retin-A in the eyes, mouth, nose or lips. Side effects of Retin-A include: burning, stinging, itching, tenderness, pain, unusual dryness, and peeling of the skin. There may even be a temporary pigment change in skin color when putting Retin-A on. The best way to help acne while breastfeeding is to use natural remedies. In fact, staying hydrated helps your skin. Furthermore, I always tell my patients that you can use your own breastmilk on your skin to heal a rash.Breastmilk has an amazing, magical healing powers, helping fight acne. Mother's who have excess hormones may have acne all over and transfer this in her breastmilk, giving extra hormones to their baby. The acne on the baby, due to these extra hormones, may last a few weeks and will resolve itself. You can continue breastfeeding during this time. In conclusion, try to relax and get help with you baby so that you can breastfeed stress-free and without worries.Always consult a doctor for medical advice before taking Retin-A while breastfeeding. If you must use this it, discuss the side effects with your doctor while breastfeeding.