How long after intravenous fluid treatment for fever can I breastfeed?
Apr 06, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
Fever refers to an elevated body temperature. After intravenous fluid administration for fever, breastfeeding can resume once the baby's condition has stabilized; the exact timing should be determined according to the specific situation. If a baby requires intravenous fluids due to fever, it is recommended to temporarily stop breastfeeding during the infusion period to avoid affecting the baby's digestion and absorption. Once the infusion is completed and the baby's condition is stable, breastfeeding can gradually be resumed.
Generally, fever refers to an elevated body temperature. Whether breastfeeding can continue after intravenous infusion for fever during lactation depends on the type of medication used. If penicillin or metronidazole drugs are administered, breastfeeding should typically be resumed only after 24 hours. If fluoroquinolone drugs such as ofloxacin are used, breastfeeding should be delayed until at least 72 hours after the infusion.
During lactation, if penicillin-class drugs are given for fever, they usually do not affect the baby through breast milk, and breastfeeding can generally resume after a 4-hour interval. However, if metronidazole-class drugs are administered, it is recommended to wait 24 hours until the drug has been fully metabolized before resuming breastfeeding, to avoid potential adverse effects on the infant.
If a nursing mother receives fluoroquinolone drugs such as ofloxacin, it is advised to wait at least 72 hours after the infusion to ensure complete drug elimination before resuming breastfeeding, as these medications may otherwise affect the baby's skeletal development.
When a breastfeeding woman develops a fever, she should seek medical diagnosis and treatment under a physician’s guidance to minimize any potential impact on the infant.
