If you take, or are thinking about taking, a collagen supplement while breastfeeding, the honest answer is that its safety is unknown. Collagen supplements have not been well studied in breastfeeding, so there is no good evidence to call them either safe or harmful.
Not studied is not the same as safe, or as dangerous
Not studied is not the same as proven safe, and it is not the same as proven dangerous either. There is no credible scientific evidence linking a mother’s collagen supplement use to puberty changes or cancer in her children, and claims in either direction go beyond what is known.
Collagen is simply a protein
Collagen is simply a protein. Most mothers meet their protein needs from ordinary food, such as meat, fish, eggs, dairy and legumes, without needing a supplement at all.
The cautious course
Supplements are not tested or approved for safety and effectiveness in the way medicines are, and safety data in breastfeeding is lacking for most of them. Because the data are lacking here, the cautious course is to ask your baby’s doctor, or your own doctor, first, or simply to wait until after weaning.
If you are concerned about your milk supply or your baby’s growth, a doctor, midwife or lactation consultant can help.
This article is general information only and is not medical advice. Please consult a healthcare professional for personal advice.