Menest and Breastfeeding

Before taking Menest, breastfeeding women should talk to their healthcare providers about the potential risks. The estrogen hormones in the medication may decrease the production and quality of breast milk. Also, the drug appears to pass through breast milk. It is generally recommended that breastfeeding women avoid taking Menest.

 

An Overview of Menest and Breastfeeding

Menest® (esterified estrogens) is a prescription medication that is typically used as hormone replacement to treat menopause symptoms (although it is approved for other uses as well). Although Menest is not recommended for breastfeeding women, this is due to its negative effects on breast milk production, not safety problems.
 

Will Menest Affect Breastfeeding?

The estrogen hormones in Menest may decrease the production and quality of breast milk. It is for this reason that estrogen-containing medications (including Menest and many birth control pills) are usually not recommended for women who are breastfeeding. In fact, esterified estrogens (the hormone in Menest) is sometimes used to suppress lactation and decrease engorgement in women who choose not to breastfeed.
 
Research suggests that Menest passes through breast milk in low amounts. These small amounts are probably too low to cause significant or long-lasting problems in breastfeeding infants.
 

Talking With Your Healthcare Provider About Menest and Breastfeeding

You should talk with your healthcare provider about Menest 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 Menest 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;