One of the downsides to pregnancy is the acne that may show up during the pregnancy and after the baby is born. There are hormonal changes taking place during pregnancy and after and some women will suffer from acne outbreaks. This acne may not show up until they are finished nursing then appear when their period starts again. After the hormones settle down again in a few months the acne may go away.

If you have acne during pregnancy or while breastfeeding you really should see your doctor about any treatments. You do not want to introduce anything into your system that could cause harm to the fetus or baby. Medications like Retinoids, Isotretinoin, Tetracyclin and Hormones may find their way into the fetus during pregnancy or the baby through breastfeeding and cause birth defects.

Medications that are considered useable while breastfeeding are topical over-the-counter medications that contain benzoyl peroxide or salicyclic acid. The absorption of these through the skin is almost zero. Supposedly, benzoyl peroxide is instantly metabolized by the body and would not reach the milk.

Erythromycin is considered safe to use for breastfeeding mothers and is approved by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Proactive is also considered safe and is a more preferable medication to use. Oral medications can put the mother and baby at risk for Thrush and should only be used if necessary. By all means do not use Accutane as this is not safe for the fetus or nursing baby; the chance for birth defects are to great.

In general most topical medications for acne appear to be safe for breastfeeding mothers and babies but it would be wise to check with your doctor before use. Your doctor may want to monitor your use to check for side effects.