Question

I am a breastfeeding mother and i want to know if it is safe to use Folic Acid? Is Folic Acid safe for nursing mother and child? Does Folic Acid extracts into breast milk? Does Folic Acid has any long term or short term side effects on infants? Can Folic Acid influence milk supply or can Folic Acid decrease milk supply in lactating mothers?

Folic Acid lactation summary

Folic Acid is safe in breastfeeding
  • DrLact safety Score for Folic Acid is 1 out of 8 which is considered Safe as per our analyses.
  • A safety Score of 1 indicates that usage of Folic Acid is mostly safe during lactation for breastfed baby.
  • Our study of different scientific research also indicates that Folic Acid does not cause any serious side effects in breastfeeding mothers.
  • Most of scientific studies and research papers declaring usage of Folic Acid safe in breastfeeding are based on normal dosage and may not hold true for higher dosage.
  • Score calculated using the DrLact safety Version 1.2 model, this score ranges from 0 to 8 and measures overall safety of drug in lactation. Scores are primarily calculated using publicly available case studies, research papers, other scientific journals and publically available data.

Answer by Dr. Ru: About Folic Acid usage in lactation

Soluble B group vitamin that is very abundant in green vegetables, legumes and fruits (citric fruits). It is actively excreted in breast milk with priority over maternal folate in such extent that may even cause maternal deficit. Exclusive breastfeeding meets the daily allowances of infant folic acid.The concentration is higher in mature milk (85 micrograms / L) than in colostrum and premature breast milk.Administration to nursing mothers increases slightly the usual concentration of folate in breast milk. Folic acid needs are increased during pregnancy and lactation (500-600 micrograms / day) and in case of taking anticonvulsant medication. No harmful effects have been observed by taking folic acid during lactation. Excess of folic acid is eliminated by the kidneys every day. No supplements are needed if diet and nutritional status are adequate. The American Academy of Pediatrics rates it as a mediation usually compatible with breastfeeding.WHO List of Essential Medicines 2002: compatible with breastfeeding.

Alternate Drugs for Anti-anemics-Folate, Vit B12

Disclaimer: Information presented in this database is not meant as a substitute for professional judgment. You should consult your healthcare provider for breastfeeding advice related to your particular situation. We do not warrant or assume any liability or responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of the information on this Site.