Pregnancy and lactation info for Melatonin
| Pregnancy Avoid | The safety of supplemental melatonin during pregnancy has not been established, and use is discouraged.[82] Melatonin that is produced naturally in the body is known to contribute to fetal development. Currently, it’s unknown how exposure to high levels of melatonin from supplements might affect this process.[83] Although research is limited and sample sizes have been small, a few studies reported no major adverse effects on mom or baby when melatonin (8–10 mg daily) was used from weeks 15 to 33 of gestation or in the last 5 to 6 weeks of pregnancy. Studies have used melatonin in the context of preeclampsia, intrauterine growth restriction, and gestational diabetes.[84][85][83][86] |
| Lactation Avoid | Melatonin is found naturally in breast milk, but there’s a lack of data to establish the safety of supplemental melatonin during lactation. Use of melatonin while breastfeeding is generally discouraged.[82] Melatonin supplements are expected to increase levels of melatonin in breast milk. However, at normal doses (≤10 mg), melatonin levels in breast milk should still be significantly lower than dosages that have been safely given to newborns.[87][88] In a case report, a supplement that contained both melatonin and valerian and was taken by a mother was suspected of impairing platelet function in the breastfeeding infant.[89] |