Statins and Breastfeeding in 2025: Are Cholesterol Medications Safe and What Are the Costs?

Caring for a newborn while managing your own health can be demanding. Many breastfeeding parents wonder if it’s safe to continue cholesterol medications like statins during this period.

Because medications can transfer into breast milk, consulting your healthcare provider is essential before making any changes. This article covers the safety of statins while breastfeeding, how breastfeeding impacts cholesterol, and natural cholesterol management strategies.

Are Statins Safe to Use While Breastfeeding?

The FDA advises against using statins during breastfeeding since these drugs may be present in breast milk and could affect your infant. If cholesterol treatment is necessary, your doctor might recommend pausing statins temporarily or switching to formula feeding to safeguard your baby.

Never stop or adjust your medication without medical guidance. Collaborate with your healthcare provider to determine the safest approach for both you and your child.

Understanding Statins

Statins are prescription drugs aimed at lowering LDL (bad cholesterol) by inhibiting cholesterol production in the liver and enhancing removal of LDL from the bloodstream, according to the CDC.

They are commonly prescribed for those with elevated heart disease or stroke risk. Criteria for statin therapy include:

• History of heart attack or stroke
• Peripheral arterial disease
• LDL levels of 190 mg/dL or higher
• Diabetes patients aged 40-75 with LDL ≥ 70 mg/dL
• Individuals 40-75 at risk for heart disease or stroke with LDL ≥ 70 mg/dL

Common statins include atorvastatin, fluvastatin, lovastatin, pitavastatin, pravastatin, rosuvastatin, and simvastatin.

Alternatives to Statins During Breastfeeding

While statins are the frontline treatment for high cholesterol, alternative medications exist but lack comprehensive safety studies for breastfeeding mothers.

For example, bile acid sequestrants are not absorbed systemically but may cause other side effects. Discuss all options thoroughly with your doctor to find a safe and effective treatment plan.

Impact of Breastfeeding on Cholesterol Levels

Research from 2015 indicates both short- and long-term breastfeeding correlate with improved lipid profiles, including a modest reduction in HDL (good cholesterol) decline after three months or more of lactation.

A 2017 study linked breastfeeding with a roughly 10% decreased risk of cardiovascular diseases and lower chances of developing high cholesterol later in life.

Does Cholesterol Transfer Through Breast Milk?

Yes, cholesterol is present in breast milk and is higher compared to formula. A 2019 study showed exclusively breastfed infants have increased plasma cholesterol and reduced internal cholesterol production.

This elevated cholesterol is beneficial, aiding brain and nerve development and hormone synthesis. Additionally, a 2021 study found breastfed children tend to have lower total cholesterol in adulthood.

Natural Ways to Manage Cholesterol

Beyond medications, lifestyle changes play a crucial role in cholesterol control.

Dietary Adjustments

Improving your diet can positively influence cholesterol levels. Recommendations include:

• Increasing intake of fruits and vegetables
• Boosting dietary fiber consumption
• Reducing saturated fat intake
• Eliminating trans fats
• Eating fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids

Regular Physical Activity

Engaging in 20-30 minutes of aerobic exercise most days and incorporating resistance training can raise HDL and lower LDL and triglycerides, per AAFP guidelines. Consult your doctor to tailor an appropriate exercise plan.

Quit Smoking

Smoking lowers good cholesterol and raises triglycerides. Quitting smoking can reverse some of these effects. Seek medical support to develop a cessation plan if needed.

Weight Management

Maintaining a healthy weight helps reduce total cholesterol. Even modest weight loss can significantly improve cholesterol profiles.

Conclusion

Managing cholesterol during breastfeeding requires a personalized approach developed with your healthcare provider. Generally, statins are not recommended while breastfeeding due to potential risks to the infant.

In some cases, continuing statins with formula feeding or temporarily pausing medication while breastfeeding may be advised. Always consult your doctor before making any medication decisions to ensure the best outcomes for you and your baby.

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