Breastfeeding: Frequent Inquiries, Suggestions, and Prevalent Myths
Breastfeeding offers numerous benefits for both the lactating parent and their newborn, as recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). However, when it comes to alcohol consumption, breastfeeding mothers need to exercise caution due to potential risks to the baby.
The safe alcohol consumption guidelines for breastfeeding mothers emphasize caution due to potential risks to the baby. Here are the key points:
- The safest option is to avoid alcohol entirely while breastfeeding, as even small amounts can affect milk supply and infant development.
- If consuming alcohol, most experts agree that waiting at least 2 to 3 hours after a standard drink (such as 12 oz beer or one glass of wine) before breastfeeding minimizes alcohol exposure to the baby.
- A “standard drink” generally means a beverage with about 5% alcohol (e.g., 12 oz beer, 5 oz wine, or 1.5 oz spirits).
- It is recommended to limit alcohol intake to about 1 or 2 drinks occasionally per week while breastfeeding, rather than frequent consumption.
Consuming alcohol can cause reduced breast milk production, disrupted infant sleep patterns, potential developmental delays, and an increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) with excessive consumption. Using a breast pump to express milk after drinking does not speed up the elimination of alcohol from the milk.
To reduce risk, plan alcohol intake around feeding times — for example, drink right after nursing and then wait several hours before the next feed. The Breastfeeding & Lactation Medicine team at UR Medicine, led by experts such as Dr. Michele Burtner, Casey Rosen-Carole, and Bridget Young, advises feeding the baby whenever they show signs of hunger and continuing until they're full.
It is not advisable to mix breast milk and formula in the same bottle without treating it as if it is only formula. Every baby is different, and the frequency of breastfeeding may vary. If a mother drinks for several hours, she might need to add a pump session and discard the milk.
When breastfeeding a baby with COVID, the mother should wash her hands before breastfeeding, wear a mask when within six feet of the infant, and follow CDC recommendations regarding isolation from others. Current evidence suggests that breast milk is not likely to spread COVID-19 to babies.
The decision to stop breastfeeding is up to the individual and their baby, and the Breastfeeding & Lactation Medicine team is available for support and guidance throughout this journey. The benefits of breastfeeding for the mother include reduced risk of breast and ovarian cancer, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, faster recovery from childbirth, and emotional health benefits.
In summary, breastfeeding mothers should either avoid alcohol or consume it very cautiously, limiting to 1-2 drinks spaced well apart and always waiting at least 2-3 hours post-drink before nursing to ensure infant safety. Consulting with a lactation consultant is recommended if questions about a breast pump or pumping arise.
- The World Health Organization (WHO) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) encourage breastfeeding for the well-being of both parents and newborns.
- However, breastfeeding mothers should exercise caution when it comes to alcohol consumption due to potential risks to the baby.
- The safest option is to avoid alcohol altogether while breastfeeding, as even small amounts can impact milk supply and infant development.
- If consuming alcohol, it's best to wait at least 2 to 3 hours after a standard drink before breastfeeding.
- Mothers should be mindful of the potential risks associated with chronic diseases like chronic kidney disease, cancer, and skin conditions while breastfeeding.
- Women's health issues such as menopause and psoriasis can also be addressed during breastfeeding, with therapies and treatments tailored to individual needs.
- Parents can seek support and guidance from the Breastfeeding & Lactation Medicine team at UR Medicine, which includes experts like Dr. Michele Burtner, Casey Rosen-Carole, and Bridget Young.
- The benefits of breastfeeding extend beyond family health, offering protection against chronic diseases like breast cancer and cardiovascular disease to the lactating parent.
- Emotional health benefits, better mental health, and improved skin care are also associated with successful breastfeeding, making it a holistic approach to health and wellness for both parent and baby.
