Chlorhexidine Gluconate | Antiseptic Skin Cleanser Gel while Breastfeeding

What is Chlorhexidine Gluconate | Antiseptic Skin Cleanser Gel used for?

Is Chlorhexidine Gluconate | Antiseptic Skin Cleanser Gel safe to use while breastfeeding? Can it interfere with growth and development of my kid?

Chlorhexidine gluconate while Breastfeeding

Iodine-free disinfectant which is widely use for skin, mouth, and, obstetric disinfection. It is preferred over iodine-based disinfectants in order to avoid high iodine exposure to the child in the neonatal and breastfeeding period that would pose a higher risk for thyroid dysfunction. Because of pharmacokinetic data (high molecular weight, high capacity for serum protein-binding and poor oral or gut absorption) significant excretion into breast milk is unlikely. Used for obstetrical purposes (vaginal or C-section wounds) even during birth or in the puerperal period, has failed to cause harm neither to the newborn nor the breastfed child. Although use in the nipple may not cause troubles to the breastfed infant (except one reported case in 1989) it is not considered to be a justified practice for prevention of mastitis. Any way, it is preferred to avoid use on the nipple, at least on a long-term basis. If used, wash the nipple thoroughly before nursing. List of Essential Medicines by WHO 2002: compatible with breastfeeding.

Chlorhexidine gluconate while Breastfeeding

CAS Number: 55-56-1

Chlorhexidine has been used vaginally or topically on the abdomen or perineum prior to delivery to prevent infection. No toxicity has been reported in breastfed infants and it has clearly less toxicity compared to povidone-iodine in these situations. Topical application of chlorhexidine to the breast before and after nursing did not appear to adversely affect the breastfed infants in one study. Use of chlorhexidine oral rinse by a nursing mother is unlikely to adversely affect her infant.

What if I already have used Chlorhexidine Gluconate | Antiseptic Skin Cleanser Gel?

My health care provider has asked me to use Chlorhexidine Gluconate | Antiseptic Skin Cleanser Gel, what to do?

If I am using Chlorhexidine Gluconate | Antiseptic Skin Cleanser Gel, will my baby need extra monitoring?

Who can I talk to if I have questions about usage of Chlorhexidine Gluconate | Antiseptic Skin Cleanser Gel in breastfeeding?