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Alcohol and Breastfeeding
Expert Q&A

By , About.com Guide

Updated February 20, 2005

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Q. Can I have a glass of wine or a beer if I am breastfeeding?

A. The American Academy of Pediatrics discourages breastfeeding mothers from drinking alcohol, stating that 'alcohol is concentrated in breast milk and its use can inhibit milk production.' So it is best to not drink alcohol when you are breastfeeding.

They do go on to say that 'an occasional celebratory single, small alcoholic drink is acceptable, but breastfeeding should be avoided for 2 hours after the drink.'

Keep in mind that most experts would not consider you to be having an 'occasional' drink if you have a glass of wine every day or even several times a week. In this sense, occasional really means infrequent.

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