Femtrace and Breastfeeding

Research on Femtrace and breastfeeding has shown that the estrogen hormone in this medication does pass through breast milk in low amounts. While these amounts are probably too low to cause significant problems in a nursing infant, the medication may decrease the quantity and quality of breast milk. However, because each woman's situation is different, talk to your healthcare provider about Femtrace and breastfeeding.

 

Can I Take Femtrace While Breastfeeding?

Femtrace® (estradiol acetate) is a prescription medication used to treat menopause symptoms. The estrogen hormone in Femtrace passes through breast milk and can decrease the quality and quantity of breast milk. Therefore, make sure to check with your healthcare provider before taking Femtrace if you are breastfeeding.
 

What Are the Problems With Femtrace and Breastfeeding?

Although research suggests that Femtrace passes through breast milk in low amounts, these small amounts are probably too low to cause significant or long-lasting problems in breastfed infants.
 
More importantly, as an estrogen medication, Femtrace may decrease the production and quality of breast milk. It is for this reason that estrogen-containing medications (including Femtrace and many birth control pills) are not usually recommended for women who are breastfeeding.
 

Talking With Your Healthcare Provider About Femtrace and Breastfeeding

You should talk with your healthcare provider about Femtrace and breastfeeding. Each woman's situation is different, and you and your healthcare provider understand your situation best. After considering what you want and expect, as well as your current health situation, you and your healthcare provider can make a shared decision about Femtrace and breastfeeding that is right for you.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;