Hello! I am breastfeeding my almost 6 month old baby and I have insomnia. Are there any medications or natural products that I can take?

It's a bit complex to answer you on this thread, not knowing much about the cause of your insomnia. Do you have anxiety or other symptoms? It is important to talk to family, friends, and professionals about this. Treatment options are available. Diphenhydramine (Nytol, Dorm-aide, Benadryl) may be safe if taken occasionally. (This is an antihistamine medication for allergies that will cause drowsiness and thus promote sleep.) ) Taken regularly, it will not have any effect after a few days. I suggest to start with a low dose of 25mg and increase to 50mg if insufficient after the evening feed. It is not dangerous for the breastfed baby but it is recommended to watch for sedative effects or irritability in the infant. It could also potentially decrease milk production. If effects on the baby or a decrease in milk production are observed, it is suggested that it be stopped.

Melatonin is not recommended for breastfeeding, nor is valerian recommended for breastfeeding women

Sleep is sometimes not easy with a baby. Try to establish a routine and good sleep hygiene. Breastfeeding often puts baby to sleep but can also have a relaxing effect on mom. The pandemic and the confinement increase the isolation and complicate the moments of respite. Save yourself a few moments of relaxation

Here are some sleep hygiene tips

And more targeted advice for the mother

Don't hesitate to ask for advice directly at the pharmacy.