What About Alcohol, Smoking and Other Drug Use?
There is very little known about the effects of most drugs or alcohol when passed on to the infant through breastfeeding. Much more research is needed.
If you are using alcohol or other drugs while you are breastfeeding, you are advised to talk to your doctor or Drug and Alcohol services to discuss the issues related to this (especially if you use on a regular basis or use more than one drug).
As stopping or reducing your drinking or drug use suddenly can be dangerous to both you and your baby it is important that you discuss this with your doctor before so, especially if you use on a regular basis.
Have a safety plan if you are planning an occasion to use a drug or drink alcohol. This may include expressing and storing breast milk in advance, or preparing formula, as well as having a responsible adult care for your infant until the effects of the drug/alcohol wear off.
Use these links to read more about:
- Alcohol
Illicit/Illegal Drugs, Buprenorphine and Methadone
Benzodiazepines like Xanax, Valium, and Serepax
- Tobacco
