Lactation supplements, also known as galactagogues, are herbs, botanicals, or vitamins formulated to increase a mother’s milk supply. These products are widely available and are often sought out by expectant mothers preparing for breastfeeding. The question of their safety during pregnancy is common. The primary concern with prenatal galactagogue use centers on the potential for these substances to interfere with the physiological balance required to maintain a healthy pregnancy.
Physiological Conflict: Why Galactagogues Are Discouraged During Pregnancy
The pregnant body suppresses lactation through a complex interplay of hormones. Galactagogues function by attempting to elevate prolactin levels or enhance milk production, risking disruption to the hormonal environment that keeps the uterus relaxed. Many herbal galactagogues have uterotonic properties, meaning they can stimulate uterine muscle contractions. This mechanism is similar to natural compounds that trigger labor. Medical professionals advise against using any substance that encourages uterine activity until after the baby is born due to the risk of inducing premature labor.
Safety Profile of Common Lactation Supplement Ingredients
The risk associated with prenatal use is not uniform, but many popular herbal galactagogues are specifically contraindicated during pregnancy due to their known effects. Even “natural” compounds can have profound pharmacological effects on the pregnant body. For instance, Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) is a widely used galactagogue that is unsafe for use during pregnancy in medicinal amounts. This herb contains compounds that may induce preterm uterine contractions and have possible abortifacient effects. Fenugreek can also lower blood sugar, which can interfere with the monitoring and management of gestational diabetes.
Blessed Thistle
Blessed Thistle (Cnicus benedictus) is another common ingredient medical sources advise avoiding during pregnancy. Similar to Fenugreek, this herb may induce uterine contractions, posing a direct risk to the continuation of the pregnancy. Reliable safety data regarding its use during gestation is lacking, which defaults the recommendation to caution and avoidance.
Goat’s Rue
Goat’s Rue (Galega officinalis) is often included in supplements marketed for increasing milk supply. While primarily associated with postpartum use, information regarding its safety during pregnancy is insufficient and conflicting. It should be avoided due to the potential for impacting blood sugar levels and stimulating uterine activity. Given the lack of high-quality prenatal studies, the standard medical advice is to refrain from using Goat’s Rue.
Safe Preparation and Optimal Supplementation Timing
The safest approach to preparing for breastfeeding does not involve prenatal galactagogues. Focus instead on education and establishing a support system. Expectant mothers can prepare by taking breastfeeding classes, connecting with a certified lactation consultant, and discussing feeding goals with their obstetric provider. These actions influence breastfeeding success without introducing unnecessary risks.
Lactation supplements should not be started until after delivery, often only once mature milk has transitioned in, which usually occurs around three to five days postpartum. In the first few days, the infant receives colostrum, and the body’s initial supply relies on hormonal changes triggered by the placenta’s delivery. Introducing supplements too early may not be effective and can potentially mask underlying issues that a lactation consultant should address.
Consultation with a healthcare professional is necessary before starting any supplement regimen. An Obstetrician, Midwife, or International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) can evaluate individual health history and medications to prevent harmful drug interactions. They can also help determine if a supplement is necessary or if a different strategy, such as increased nursing frequency or pumping, is better.