CAS Number: 59-30-3
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.
It is always a good idea to keep your healthcare provider or doctor informed about your drug usage during pregnancy and breastfeeding but if you have not informed your doctor about Folic Acid Tablet and have used it then do not panic as Folic Acid Tablet is mostly safe in breastfeeding and should not cause any harm to your baby.
Definitely, Folic Acid Tablet is safe in lactation for baby. No wonder your doctor has recommended it.
No extra baby monitoring required while mother is using Folic Acid Tablet
US
National Womens Health and Breastfeeding Helpline: 800-994-9662 (TDD 888-220-5446) 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday
UK
National Breastfeeding Helpline: 0300-100-0212 9.30am to 9.30pm, daily
Association of Breastfeeding Mothers: 0300-330-5453
La Leche League: 0345-120-2918
The Breastfeeding Network supporter line in Bengali and Sylheti: 0300-456-2421
National Childbirth Trust (NCT): 0300-330-0700
Australia
National Breastfeeding Helpline: 1800-686-268 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Canada
Telehealth Ontario for breastfeeding: 1-866-797-0000 24 hours a day, 7 days a week