Alcohol, medicines and other substances when breastfeeding

What happens in the first few years of a child’s life can shape their whole life.

Alcohol

Breastfeeding mothers can have occasional, small amounts of alcohol but should not drink regularly or heavily without considering how to limit the baby’s exposure.

If you drink any alcohol do not bed share with your baby or fall asleep on a sofa or chair. The Lullaby Trust has more information on co sleeping with your baby.

If you have drank, you need to consider how this may affect your ability to be able to care for your baby and if you are concerned your baby should be cared for by an adult who has not had any alcohol. 

It is not necessary to express breastmilk to clear it of alcohol.

The Breastfeeding Network provides more information about alcohol and breastfeeding.

In addition the NHS provides information about breastfeeding and drinking alcohol.

You can also find help and support to cut down your alcohol intake at Live Well York.

Medicines

Taking medications does not usually mean that you need to stop breastfeeding temporarily or permanently. This can be the case even if the patient information leaflet with the medication suggests you should do so. See more information from the Breastfeeding Network for more information on Patient information leaflets and what they mean.

Breastmilk and breastfeeding are important for your baby. If you have been advised to stop breastfeeding or expressing for your baby in order to take a medication or are unsure if you can take a certain medication whilst breastfeeding it may be worth speaking to someone with an interest and knowledge of breastfeeding support, such as your Midwife, Health Visitor, GP, Pharmacist or the Breastfeeding Network.

The Breastfeeding Network is a great resource which also provides information about medications and breastmilk, including factsheets about frequently used medications and a service you can use to get more specific information about your medications if this is needed.

The NHS also has information about Breastfeeding and medicines.

Illicit substances

Using illicit substances can affect your ability to look after your baby safely and may also pass on to your baby through your breastmilk.

Don’t hesitate to talk to your Midwife, Health Visitor or GP for help with accessing treatment and support around your substance use. They are there to support you through any challenges you might have, whatever they are.

The Live Well York website also has information on support available to help you reduce substance use.