Women's Health

Maternity

Breastfeeding - Other Things To Consider

As in pregnancy, if you are breastfeeding, much of your activity will affect your baby. Therefore, you will need to consider other aspects of your lifestyle and how they will affect your new baby.

Medication and Herbal Remedies

There are some medications and herbal remedies that can get into your breastmilk when you take them, or that can affect breastmilk production. Do not take any medication (prescription or over-the-counter medication) or herbal preparations without consulting your health care provider, and be sure he or she is aware that you are breastfeeding. You should also consult with your baby's doctor as well.

Alcohol and Drugs

Alcohol does get into your milk. While an occasional beer or glass of wine is okay, a moderate amount (or more) may affect breastmilk production and can cause problems for your baby. If you do choose to enjoy a drink, try to wait until after the last feeding of the day, or wait 1-2 hours before nursing again to allow your body to metabolize the alcohol, therefore minimizing the effects it could have on your baby.

As in pregnancy, any recreational drug use during breastfeeding may have a negative affect on your child'sdevelopment and should be avoided.

Smoking

For many reasons - besides breastfeeding - doctors recommend that you quit smoking. Nicotine does get into breastmilk and can affect breastmilk production and cause discomfort and health risks in your baby. Babies of smokers are more prone to respiratory infections and an increased risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). However, the overall benefits of breastmilk - even if you smoke - are greater than the associated risks.

If you cannot quit, at least try to decrease the number of cigarettes while you are breastfeeding. Do not smoke immediately before or while nursing your baby. Smoke only after feeding your baby, and preferably in another room or outside to avoid exposing your baby to second-hand smoke.

Birth Control

Contrary to popular wisdom, breastfeeding is NOT a means of birth control. You can get pregnant while breastfeeding. If you do not want to get pregnant at this time, talk with your health care provider about the best form of birth control for you.