Herbs and breastfeeding

tortuga47

No flame please Has anyone here taking TCM herbs and breastfed?

I was diagnosed with POF (Premature Ovarian Failure) and they wanted me to start medication, however I opted for an alternate route of acupuncture and chiropractic care. All the doctors, including my TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) and chiropractor wanted me to wean. I've lost a lot of weight and the diagnosis puts me at risk for several diseases. Up until now I was able to breastfeed and do acupuncture, but now they've started me on herbs. I have not breastfed since I started (yesterday) but no one can give me a firm answer if it's ok or not. I spoke with a Le Leche League rep and looked up various sites. I am erring on the side of caution and NOT breastfeeding, however am feeling pretty devastated at having to wean and if anyone can direct me to someone knowledgeable about TCM and breastfeeding, I'd be sincerely grateful. My hope was I could take my herbs directly after nursing in the morning and at lunch so they'd have 18 hrs to dissipate in my system. Everything I've read says most herbs are at their highest potency 60-90 minutes after ingesting and to take them immediately after nursing. My son is 15 months, so I know it won't be the end of the world if I wean now, but I wanted to continue until HE was ready to stop. Anyway, any helpful direction or experience is helpful. Thanks

Sarelnad

I have no advice but I'm sorry you're going through this. Having to wean when you're both not ready is really hard. I hope you find the advice you're seeking. Have you talked to an IBCLC?

tortuga47

I did, but she wasn't able to give me a definite answer either. Thank you for your suggestion though. I'm having a very difficult time with this.