Birth control pills and flatulence?

QUESTION: I am presently taking progestin only birth control pills prescribed by my doctor. I've nursed my baby since birth. Lately I have noticed a mysterious onset of flatulence in me. I have noticed that my daughter has been very gassy. I evaluated my diet and found no reason (i.e. dairy products). I suffer from lactose intolerance and decided to check the contents of my bcp. There is lactose in the pills! Could it possibly be the pills that are causing the gas in me and my baby? I am not on any other medications

Suzanne,

Thanks for asking. I do not think that the tiny amount of lactose that is in your bcp would cause excess gas in you or your baby. I would look for other sources -- have you changed your diet to a more healthy one over the last few weeks (more fresh vegetables, fruits etc = more fiber = more gas for mom // not more gas for baby. Is your lactose intolerance do to a dairy sensitivity also -- look for hidden sources of dairy in preprocessed foods -- you can ask your local dietitian for a list?

Is the baby drooling more -- the beginning of teething can lead to more gas in the baby? Have you or the baby had any antibiotics in the last few weeks. Antibiotics change the bacteria that helps digest our food and can lead to extra gas.

I hope I have been of help.

Good luck

Anne Norton-Krawciw, RPh, IBCLC

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