Is Nonoxynol-9 safe while breastfeeding?

Here is what NIH LactMed, the U.S. National Library of Medicine's authority on medicines and breastfeeding, reports about Nonoxynol-9. This is a summary of that source — not our own verdict.

Effects on the breastfed infant

In a study comparing various methods of contraception, the breastfed infants of women who used a nonoxynol-9-containing foam had no observable adverse effects.[ 2 ]

Effects on milk supply

Compared with a combination contraceptive containing ethinyl estradiol 30 mcg and levonorgestrel 150 mcg, women who used either nonoxynol-9 foam or copper-T IUD had less inhibition of lactation than the combined oral contraceptive.[ 2 ]

Levels in milk

Maternal Levels. Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date. Infant Levels. Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.

Alternatives LactMed lists

Source: NIH LactMed (National Library of Medicine).

Educational summary of an authoritative source — not medical advice. Never start, stop, or change a medicine while breastfeeding without confirming with your doctor.