Chlorhexidine Gluconate Solution 0.75% Antiseptic Solution while Breastfeeding

What is Chlorhexidine Gluconate Solution 0.75% Antiseptic Solution used for?

Is Chlorhexidine Gluconate Solution 0.75% Antiseptic Solution 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 should I do if I am breastfeeding mother and I am already exposed to Chlorhexidine Gluconate Solution 0.75% Antiseptic Solution?

My health care provider has asked me to use Chlorhexidine Gluconate Solution 0.75% Antiseptic Solution, what to do?

If I am using Chlorhexidine Gluconate Solution 0.75% Antiseptic Solution, will my baby need extra monitoring?

Who can I talk to if I have questions about usage of Chlorhexidine Gluconate Solution 0.75% Antiseptic Solution in breastfeeding?