Question

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

Dienogest lactation summary

Dienogest is safe in breastfeeding
  • DrLact safety Score for Dienogest is 1 out of 8 which is considered Safe as per our analyses.
  • A safety Score of 1 indicates that usage of Dienogest is mostly safe during lactation for breastfed baby.
  • Our study of different scientific research also indicates that Dienogest does not cause any serious side effects in breastfeeding mothers.
  • Most of scientific studies and research papers declaring usage of Dienogest 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 Dienogest usage in lactation

Synthetic progesterone. Used for the treatment of endometriosis.In association with estrogen it has been used as a birth-control medication (e.g. Estradiol + Dienogest) A latest update no published data on excretion into breast milk were found. Progesterone and other related progestin drugs are excreted into breast milk in clinically non-significant amount, and, no problems have been observed in infants whose mothers were treated with this medication. Plasma levels of these infants were usually very low. It has been occasionally observed an increase of prolactin with increased milk production, however, it would be advisable to start taking it until breastfeeding is well established (first 4 to 6 weeks postpartum).

Answer by DrLact: About Dienogest usage in lactation

Dienogest is only available in the United States in a combination oral contraceptive product that also contains estradiol valerate. Based on the available evidence, expert opinion holds that nonhormonal methods are preferred during breastfeeding and progestin-only contraceptives are preferred over combined oral contraceptives in breastfeeding women, especially during the first 4 weeks postpartum. For further information, consult the record entitled, "Contraceptives, Oral, Combined."
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.