 |
Question:I have silicone breast implants. Is it safe to breastfeed my new baby?
Answer: The Institute of Medicine estimates that somewhere between 1.5 and 1.8 million women had silicone breast implants as of 1997, the majority for cosmetic reasons. About ten years ago, concerns were raised that leakage of silicone from implants over time could harm women's health by triggering autoimmune illnesses. Although this observation apparently represented coincidence and not causation, in 1992 the FDA moved to dramatically restrict the use of silicone implants.
In 1994 and 1995 two papers suggested that infants of mothers with silicone implants might have an increased incidence of esophageal disease. Subsequent research has not confirmed these findings. After reviewing all available research, the Institute of Medicine came to the conclusion: "The committee finds no evidence of elevated silicone in breastmilk or any other substance that would be deleterious to infants; the committee strongly concludes that all mothers with implants should attempt breastfeeding" (1).
Silicon is the second most common element in the Earth's crust. Silicone is a derivative of silicon. When silicon is used as a proxy measurement for silicone it is clear that there is much more silicon in formula than in breastmilk. (See box).
The type of silicone polymer used in implants has extremely large molecules, which would be highly unlikely to pass into mother's milk or be absorbed in an infant's gastrointestinal tract. Analyses of breastmilk samples from mothers whose implants have ruptured have found no silicone in the milk. We ingest silicone compounds through cosmetics such as lipstick, over the counter drugs such as antacids, and the coating of fresh fruits and vegetables. Silicone is also used to lubricate syringes and to make silicone nipples for baby bottles and pacifiers. Mylicon drops, which contain the same polymer as silicone breast implants, are given to colicky babies as a gas reducer and work by coating the digestive system. In short, breastfeeding with silicone implants should be encouraged.
|
|
|
|
Reference:
- Committee on the Safety of Silicone Breast Implants, Institute of Medicine. Safety of Silicone Breast Implants. National Academy Press, Washington, DC 1999, p. 8.
Nancy E. Wight MD, FAAP, IBCLC
Dr. Wight is an attending Neonatologist at Children's Hospital and Sharp Mary Birch Hospital for Women, San Diego, and Medical Director, Sharp HealthCare Lactation Services. (IBCLC=International Board Certified Lactation Consultant) She can be reached at www.breastfeeding.org.
| |
|
