Alcohol and Breastfeeding Guidelines . Alcohol in Breastmilk Dangers. How Long Does Alcohol Stay In Breastmilk? Breastfeeding and Drinking Alcohol Chart. Breastmilk Alcohol Calculator.

Alcohol and breastmilk don’t mix well, and various risks are associated with consuming alcohol while breastfeeding. Nursing mothers need to be aware of these risks and take precautions to ensure the safety and health of their babies.


Alcohol and Breastfeeding

While many mothers know the dangers of drinking during pregnancy, the risks associated with alcohol and breastfeeding are less obvious. Even during breastfeeding, alcohol can impact both the mother and child.

Can I Drink Alcohol While Breastfeeding?

Alcohol in breastmilk cause impaired motor development, decreased milk production, and increased drowsiness among infants. Hence, it is best to refrain from drinking any alcohol while breastfeeding if possible. While many authorities advise against drinking alcohol while breastfeeding, it is important to understand the facts and make an informed decision. If you are a new mom concerned about the dangers of alcohol and breastfeeding, read on for essential information and peace of mind.

Breastfeeding and Drinking Alcohol Chart 

The below breastfeeding and drinking alcohol chart can help nursing moms understand how long they should wait after drinking alcohol before they can safely breastfeed their baby.

Alcohol in Breastmilk Chart:

This chart is just an example. The time it takes for alcohol to clear from breast milk may vary depending on the factors described below.

Alcohol DrinksWhen Can You Breastfeed
1 DrinkWait for 2 to 3 hours before breastfeeding
2 DrinksWait 4 to 5 hours before breastfeeding
3 DrinksWait 6 to 7 hours or until you do not feel the alcohol. You may pump to relieve engorgement before breastfeeding. If tipsy when pumping, dump the saved milk.
4 DrinksWait 8 to 9 hours or until you do not feel the alcohol. If tipsy, hold off breastfeeding.
Bookmark the above breastfeeding and drinking alcohol chart so that you can be reminded of how long does alcohol stay in breastmilk and when it is safe to breastfeed with alcohol use.

The alcohol in breastmilk chart is a tool that helps nursing moms estimate the amount of time it takes for alcohol to clear out of their breastmilk after consuming alcohol. This chart considers the mother’s weight, the number of drinks consumed, and the timing of alcohol consumption to estimate when it is safe to breastfeed again.

To use the alcohol in breastmilk chart, nursing moms need to know the number of standard drinks they have consumed and the time since their last drink. A standard drink is typically defined as a 12-ounce beer, a 5-ounce glass of wine, or a 1.5-ounce shot of liquor.

Alcohol and Breastfeeding Calculator 

Use the below breastmilk alcohol calculator to determine when it is safe to feed your infant. A breastmilk alcohol calculator is superior to a breastmilk alcohol chart as it can provide more precise wait times.

Alcohol and Breastfeeding Calculator 


lbs

Estimated Time Until Your Breast Milk is Alcohol Free

Please enter your weight & number of drinks above, thereafter click "Calculate".

Alcohol in breastmilk strips, also known as alcohol test strips for breastmilk, can be used to test the alcohol content of breastmilk. These strips are easy to use and provide quick and accurate results. They detect the presence of alcohol in breastmilk as low as 0.02% and can help nursing mothers ensure that their breastmilk is safe for their infants.

The breastfeeding and drinking alcohol chart are intended as a guideline to help nursing mothers estimate when it is safe to breastfeed again after consuming alcohol. However, the best way to ensure that breastmilk is alcohol-free is to use alcohol test strips for breastmilk when drinking.

Alcohol and Breastfeeding Guidelines

So, when can i drink alcohol while breastfeeding? Breastfeeding moms can enjoy moderate alcohol consumption without harming their nursing infant. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advises that 1-2 drinks weekly are safe, but excessive alcohol intake can lead to developmental delays and decreased milk production. Furthermore, women who drink heavily or binge drink should avoid breastfeeding until the alcohol has cleared their system. To minimize the amount of alcohol that passes into breast milk, try waiting 2 hours after a drink before breastfeeding, pumping and discarding milk after drinking, or feeding the baby with stored milk during the alcohol elimination period.

Alcohol and Breastfeeding Dangers

Alcohol and breastfeeding can be controversial topics to discuss. Alcohol and breastfeeding do not mix well. Drinking alcohol can pose risks to both the mother and the baby. Here are some dangers associated with drinking alcohol and breastfeeding:

  1. Slower breast milk production: Drinking alcohol can temporarily affect the hormones that regulate milk production, which can cause a decrease in milk supply and potentially lead to problems with breastfeeding.
  2. Lower breast milk quality: Studies have shown that alcohol can pass through breast milk and affect the quality of the milk, including its taste and smell. This can make the baby reluctant to feed, leading to further issues with breastfeeding.
  3. Increased risk of infant health: Babies exposed to alcohol through breast milk can experience drowsiness, weakness, and impaired motor function. Alcohol can also interfere with a baby’s sleep patterns and overall development.
  4. Increased risk of maternal accidents: Drinking alcohol can impair judgment and coordination, leading to an increased risk of falls and other accidents. This can be especially dangerous for mothers who are alone with their children and must stay alert and focused on their care.
  5. Long-term effects: There is some evidence to suggest that long-term exposure to alcohol through breast milk could have negative effects on infant development, including impaired cognitive function and increased risk of alcohol use disorders later in life.

How Much Alcohol Can You Drink While Breastfeeding?

Drinking alcohol while breastfeeding can pose various risks to the mother and the baby, including temporary effects on milk production and quality, increased risk of infant health problems, increased likelihood of maternal accidents, and potential long-term effects on infant development. It is recommended that breastfeeding mothers avoid alcohol consumption or limit it to very occasional and moderate amounts (no more than one drink per day) to minimize any potential risks.

How Long Does Alcohol Stay in Breastmilk?

Alcohol and breastfeeding are often concerns for new moms. When consumed, alcohol enters breastmilk, and its concentration in milk is typically similar to that found in the blood. However, how long it stays in the breastmilk depends on several factors, such as the amount of alcohol consumed and the time elapsed since breastfeeding.

Generally speaking, if you consume alcohol shortly before breastfeeding, it will take about 2-3 hours for all of the alcohol to clear from your system and, therefore your breastmilk. This means you should wait at least two hours after consuming any alcoholic beverage before breastfeeding your baby to minimize their alcohol exposure.

Alcohol and Breastfeeding Safety

Alcohol and breastmilk don't mix well, and various risks are associated with consuming alcohol while breastfeeding. Nursing mothers need to be aware of these risks and take precautions to ensure the safety and health of their babies.
Alcohol and breastmilk don’t mix well, and various risks are associated with consuming alcohol while breastfeeding. Nursing mothers need to be aware of these risks and take precautions to ensure the safety and health of their babies.

If you are concerned about proper alcohol and breastfeeding habits, talk to your healthcare provider or a lactation consultant for guidance and support. They can provide more personalized advice based on your situation and needs.

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Breastfeeding and Drinking Alcohol Chart Factors

The alcohol in breastmilk chart is only an estimation. The time it takes for alcohol to clear out of breastmilk may vary based on metabolism, body composition, and food consumed. Therefore, nursing mothers should use this chart as a guide and also consider using an alcohol breastmilk test to ensure that their breastmilk is alcohol-free.

Here is a general guideline of how long alcohol can stay in breast milk:

  • One standard drink (e.g. a 12-ounce beer, a 5-ounce glass of wine, or a 1.5-ounce shot of liquor) typically takes about two hours to clear from breast milk. So, if a breastfeeding mother has one standard drink, she should wait at least two hours before breastfeeding her baby.
  • Two standard drinks will take about four hours to clear, so a mother who has two drinks should wait at least four hours before breastfeeding.
  • Three or more drinks will take longer to clear, so mothers who have consumed three or more drinks should avoid breastfeeding for at least 6-7 hours.

Breastmilk and alcohol do not mix well, and nursing mothers should take precautions to ensure the safety and health of their infants. By limiting their alcohol intake, using alcohol in breastmilk strips, and following the alcohol in breastmilk chart, nursing mothers can ensure their breastmilk is safe for their infants.

Remember that these guidelines are general estimates. The amount of time it takes for alcohol to clear from breast milk can vary based on factors such as body weight, the amount of alcohol consumed, and the timing of the drinks. It’s also important to note that even when alcohol has cleared from breast milk, a mother may still feel the effects

What Are The Risks Of Having Alcohol in Breastmilk?

Alcohol and breastmilk pose various risks to infants for nursing moms when consuming alcohol while breastfeeding, especially if they drink more than one drink daily. New moms need to be familiar with these risks from Alcohol and breastfeeding and take safeguards to ensure the health of their babies.

Firstly, alcohol in breastmilk can cause adverse effects on infants, such as drowsiness, decreased milk intake, and delayed motor development. Studies have shown that infants who are exposed to alcohol through breastmilk have a reduced milk intake and take longer to reach their developmental milestones compared to those who are not exposed to alcohol.

The amount of alcohol that is safe for breastfeeding mothers to consume is unclear. Generally, it’s recommended that nursing mothers avoid alcohol altogether or limit their consumption to an occasional drink. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that breastfeeding mothers limit their alcohol intake to no more than 0.5 grams of alcohol per kilogram of body weight, equivalent to one drink per day.

To measure the amount of alcohol in breastmilk, nursing mothers can use breastmilk alcohol test strips available online or at pharmacies. These strips can detect the presence of alcohol in breastmilk as low as 0.02% (0.02 alcohol in breastmilk), allowing mothers to ensure that their breastmilk is safe for their infants.

It’s also crucial for nursing mothers to be aware of the timing of alcohol consumption and breastfeeding. The alcohol content of breastmilk peaks about 30-60 minutes after consumption, and it takes about two hours for a standard drink to be metabolized and eliminated from the body. Mothers should wait at least two hours after consuming alcohol before breastfeeding to ensure their breastmilk is alcohol-free.

The Breastmilk Alcohol Chart can help nursing mothers determine how long they should wait before breastfeeding after consuming alcohol. It estimates how long it takes for alcohol to be metabolized based on the mother’s body weight and the number of drinks consumed.

In closing, alcohol and breastmilk don’t mix, and nursing mothers should be aware of the risks associated with consuming alcohol while breastfeeding. By limiting their alcohol intake, using breastmilk alcohol test strips, and following the Breastmilk Alcohol Chart, nursing mothers can ensure their breastmilk is safe for their infants.

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  1. Can Alcohol in Breastmilk Make Baby Vomit?

    Yes, alcohol in breastmilk can make a baby vomit. Alcohol can pass through breast milk and affect the baby’s central nervous system, causing sleepiness, lethargy, and other side effects. In severe cases, it can cause vomiting and even alcohol poisoning in infants.

  2. How Long Is Alcohol in Breastmilk?

    The length of time alcohol stays in breast milk depends on several factors, including the mother’s weight, the amount of alcohol consumed, and the timing of alcohol consumption. However, on average, one standard drink takes about 2-3 hours to clear out breast milk. The more alcohol a mother consumes, the longer it will take to clear out of her breast milk.

  3. Does Alcohol Stay in Breastmilk?

    Yes, alcohol can stay in breast milk until it is metabolized by the mother’s liver. One standard drink takes 2-3 hours to clear out breast milk. However, the length of time can vary depending on several factors, including the mother’s weight, the amount of alcohol consumed, and the timing of alcohol consumption.

  4. Does Alcohol Pass Through Breastmilk?

    Yes, alcohol can pass through breast milk and affect the baby’s central nervous system, causing sleepiness, lethargy, and other side effects. It is recommended that nursing mothers avoid drinking alcohol or limit their intake to reduce the amount of alcohol that is passed through breast milk to their infants.

  5. How Long Does Alcohol Stay in Your Breastmilk?

    The length of time that alcohol stays in breast milk varies depending on several factors, including the mother’s weight, the amount of alcohol consumed, and the timing of alcohol consumption. One standard drink takes 2-3 hours to clear out breast milk. However, the length of time can vary, and it is recommended that nursing mothers use Alcohol Test Strips for Breastmilk to ensure that their breastmilk is alcohol-free before breastfeeding their infants.

  6. How Much Alcohol in Breastmilk?

    The amount of alcohol in breast milk varies depending on several factors, including the mother’s weight, the amount of alcohol consumed, and the timing of alcohol consumption. However, even a small amount of alcohol can pass through breast milk and affect the baby’s central nervous system. It is recommended that nursing mothers avoid drinking alcohol or limit their intake to reduce the amount of alcohol that is passed through breast milk to their infants.

  7. How Much Alcohol is in Breastmilk?

    The amount of alcohol in breast milk varies depending on several factors, including the mother’s weight, the amount of alcohol consumed, and the timing of alcohol consumption. However, even a small amount of alcohol can pass through breast milk and affect the baby’s central nervous system. It is recommended that nursing mothers avoid drinking alcohol or limit their intake to reduce the amount of alcohol that is passed through breast milk to their infants.

Alcohol and Breastfeeding Fact Sheet

Key Points about Alcohol and Breastfeeding Safety

Here are some key points from the Alcohol and Breastfeeding Fact Sheet:

  • The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) states that moderate alcohol consumption by a breastfeeding mother (1-2 drinks per week) is not known to be harmful to the nursing infant.
  • However, excessive alcohol intake can interfere with milk production and is associated with infant developmental delays.
  • Women who drink heavily or binge drink should avoid breastfeeding until the alcohol has cleared their system.
  • You can do a few things to minimize the amount of alcohol that gets into your breast milk, such as waiting at least 2 hours after drinking before breastfeeding, pumping and discarding milk after drinking or feeding the baby with alcohol-free stored milk.
  • If you are struggling with alcohol use disorder or a history of alcohol abuse, seeking support and treatment from a healthcare professional is important.

While moderate alcohol consumption is not known to be harmful to infants, breastfeeding mothers need to be aware of the potential risks and take steps to minimize exposure, particularly in the early postpartum period when the baby is still developing. It’s also worth noting that there is no “safe” alcohol consumption during pregnancy, as alcohol can cross the placenta and potentially harm the developing fetus.

How long does alcohol stay in breastmilk?

Alcohol can stay in breastmilk for several hours after a person drinks. Generally, the amount of alcohol in breastmilk will peak around 30 to 60 minutes after the drink is consumed and gradually decrease over time. The length of time alcohol stays in breastmilk can depend on various factors, such as the person’s weight, how much alcohol they consumed, and how quickly their body processes alcohol. If you are concerned about drinking alcohol while breastfeeding, consulting a healthcare professional for advice and guidance is always best.

How long does alcohol stay in breastmilk chart?

While the amount of time that alcohol stays in breastmilk can vary depending on individual factors such as weight, age, metabolism, and the amount and type of alcohol consumed, here is a general timeline of how long alcohol takes to leave breastmilk:

  • For a standard drink (i.e., 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of hard liquor), it typically takes 2-3 hours for the alcohol to clear from a mother’s breast milk.
  • If a mother drinks heavily or consumes more than one drink, it can take longer for the alcohol to clear from her system and breast milk (up to 13 hours or more).
  • The rate at which alcohol is metabolized can vary depending on individual factors, so these estimates should be taken as general guidelines rather than strict rules.

If you are concerned about the effects of alcohol on your breast milk and breastfeeding, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance. They can provide you with more detailed information about how alcohol affects your body and breast milk specifically and help you make informed decisions to keep both you and your baby safe and healthy.

Breastfeeding and drinking alcohol chart

Here is an example of an alcohol and breastfeeding chart that shows the general relationship between the amount of alcohol consumed and its potential impact on breastmilk, according to the Breastfeeding Association:

  • 1 standard drink – minimal effect on the infant’s behavior and sleep.
  • 2 standard drinks – usually no effect, but some infants may be more sensitive to the presence of alcohol.
  • 3-4 standard drinks – may impact the infant’s sleep and behavior, especially if consumed within a short period.
  • 5 or more standard drinks – can cause significant impairment to the mother, make her unable to care for the infant safely, and potentially harm the baby.

Again, these are just general drinking alcohol and breastfeeding chart guidelines. The effects of alcohol on breastfeeding can vary depending on individual factors. Additionally, it’s important to note that consuming any amount of alcohol while breastfeeding can be a personal decision that depends on a variety of factors, including the mother’s health, the baby’s health, and individual circumstances. As always, it’s best to seek advice from a healthcare professional before drinking alcohol while breastfeeding.

Alcohol Abuse Facts

Alcohol Abuse Overview

An unhealthy drinking pattern that interferes with daily tasks. Alcohol abuse occurs when a person has a major drinking problem but is not yet physiologically dependent on alcohol. The failure to fulfill significant work, school, or family obligations is a symptom, as are legal or social issues or drinking in risky settings, as when operating a motor vehicle. Support groups, counseling, or relapse prevention medication are all possible treatment options.


Alcohol Addiction Treatment

Treatment may include support groups, counseling, or medication to prevent relapse.

  • Medical procedure: Alcohol detoxification.
  • Lifestyle drug: Abstinence.
  • Medications: Sedatives, Vitamins, Alcoholism medication, and Antiparasitics.
  • Therapy: Counseling psychology and Family therapy.

Alcohol Abuse Symptoms

The failure to fulfill significant work, school, or family obligations is a symptom, as are legal or social issues or drinking in risky settings, as when operating a motor vehicle.

  • Behavioral: antisocial behavior, impulsivity, self-harm, or lack of restraint.
  • Mood: anxiety, general discontent, or loneliness.
  • Gastrointestinal: nausea or vomiting.
  • Whole body: craving or blackout.
  • Also common: are physical dependence, depression, or headaches.

Alcohol and Breastfeeding Statistics

Here are some statistics related to alcohol and breastfeeding:

  • According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around 83% of mothers in the United States breastfeed their babies at birth, but that number drops to around 57% by the time the baby reaches 6 months.
  • Research shows that around 50-75% of breastfeeding mothers consume alcohol at some point during their breastfeeding journey.
  • The AAP’s 2012 guidelines on breastfeeding and substance use note that alcohol consumption up to 0.5 g/kg is not harmful to the infant. That corresponds to about one drink per day for an average 70 kg woman.
  • However, a recent study found that nearly a third of new mothers in the United Kingdom did not recognize that alcohol could be passed to their infants through breastmilk, and that many continued to drink at unsafe levels while breastfeeding.
  • The same study found that mothers with lower levels of education, those with drinking or smoking habits before pregnancy, those with previous mental health problems, and those who were unemployed were more likely to consume alcohol while breastfeeding.

The effects of alcohol on breast milk can vary depending on individual factors, and it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance. Additionally, guidelines on alcohol consumption while breastfeeding may differ between countries or organizations, and it’s important to be aware of your local recommendations.

Alcohol Abuse Statistics

High-Intensity Drinking is a new trend discovered by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA). Alcohol consumption “at levels that are two or more times the gender-specific binge drinking thresholds” is included in the definition of high-intensity drinking (HID).

There isn’t much peer-reviewed research because it’s still a new trend. According to the information that is currently available, HID is widespread among binge drinkers and is frequently related to important occasions, particularly 21st birthdays and athletic events.


140,557 Americans die from the effects of alcohol in an average year.

Source: NIAAA

1-in-10 Americans over the age of 12 have Alcohol Use Disorder.

Source: NIAAA

Over half of Americans increased their alcohol consumption during COVID-19 lockdowns.

Source: NIAAA


Test Strips For Alcohol In Breastmilk

A test for alcohol in breastmilk can be done using specialized strips known as breastmilk alcohol test strips. These strips are designed to detect the presence of alcohol in breastmilk quickly and easily. They work by using a simple color-changing test that indicates the presence of alcohol in breastmilk.
A test for alcohol in breastmilk can be done using specialized strips known as breastmilk alcohol test strips. These strips are designed to detect the presence of alcohol in breastmilk quickly and easily. They work by using a simple color-changing test that indicates the presence of alcohol in breastmilk.

Strips To Test Alcohol In Breastmilk

Strips to test alcohol in breastmilk can be very useful for nursing mothers who want to ensure their breastmilk is alcohol-free before breastfeeding their infants. These strips, also known as Breastmilk Alcohol Test Strips, are designed to detect alcohol in breastmilk quickly and easily. They work by using a simple color-changing test that indicates the presence of alcohol in breast milk.

While these strips can be helpful, it is important to note that they are not always accurate. The accuracy of these strips can vary depending on several factors, including the strip type and how they are used. It is recommended that nursing mothers use these strips in conjunction with other tools, such as a Breastmilk Alcohol Calculator or Breastmilk and Alcohol Chart, to ensure that their breastmilk is alcohol-free.

While strips to test alcohol in breastmilk can be a helpful tool for nursing mothers. Using them with other resources may be necessary to ensure that breast milk is alcohol-free before feeding an infant.

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Effects Of Alcohol In Breastmilk

The consumption of alcohol during lactation can have various effects on the nursing mother and her infant. Here are some potential effects of alcohol in breastmilk:

  • Decreased milk production: Alcohol consumption can lead to a decrease in milk production, which can cause the infant to receive less breast milk than they need for optimal growth and development.
  • Changes in milk composition: Alcohol can alter the composition of breast milk, affecting the levels of fat, protein, and other nutrients. This can also impact the infant’s growth and development.
  • Delayed milk ejection reflex: Alcohol can delay the let-down reflex, making it difficult for the infant to nurse effectively.
  • Drowsiness and reduced milk intake in the infant: Alcohol can make the infant drowsy, leading to reduced milk intake during feeding. This can affect the infant’s growth and development and their ability to stay alert and engaged.
  • Increased risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS): Research has shown that alcohol consumption during lactation can increase the risk of SIDS in infants. This is thought to be due to the sedative effects of alcohol on the infant.
  • Decreased motor development in the infant: Some studies have suggested that alcohol consumption during lactation may be associated with decreased motor development in infants, particularly in their ability to control their movements.
  • Negative impact on the nursing mother’s health: Alcohol consumption during lactation can negatively affect the mother’s health, including liver damage and an increased risk of breast cancer.

It is important for nursing mothers to be aware of the potential effects of alcohol in breastmilk and to take steps to minimize the risks to their infant. This may include avoiding alcohol altogether or waiting a certain period of time after consuming alcohol before breastfeeding. Additionally, nursing mothers may want to use breastmilk alcohol test strips or other resources to ensure that their breastmilk is alcohol-free before feeding their infant.

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Baby Dies from Alcohol in Breastmilk Headlines

Tragic news reports like “baby dies from alcohol in breastmilk” highlight an infant’s death from alcohol and breastmilk. It serves as a devastating reminder of the potential dangers of consuming alcohol while breastfeeding. While such incidents are rare, they underscore the importance of taking alcohol use seriously during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

When a mother drinks alcohol, it can pass into her breast milk, potentially harming her nursing baby, especially if consumed in large amounts. Sometimes, the baby may experience sleepiness, difficulty breastfeeding, and impaired motor function. More rarely, high levels of alcohol in breast milk can cause serious health problems or even death.

Most breastfeeding mothers who consume alcohol do not experience these types of extreme outcomes. Enjoying a glass of wine or beer safely while breastfeeding is possible with appropriate precaution and moderation.

Practicing responsible drinking habits while breastfeeding is necessary to ensure your baby’s health and safety. This may involve limiting alcohol consumption to one standard drink daily, waiting a few hours before breastfeeding, or pumping and discarding milk after drinking. If you are struggling with alcohol use disorder or have a history of heavy drinking, seek professional help and avoid breastfeeding while drinking until your body is fully free of alcohol.

Alcohol Addiction Treatment

People frequently consider 12-step programs or 28-day inpatient rehab when asked how alcoholism is treated, but they might struggle to name other choices. Several therapy options are now accessible due to considerable advancements made in the industry over the previous 60 years.

Ultimately, no one answer fits all, and what may be suitable for one person may not be for another. Merely being aware of your possibilities might be a crucial first step.

Alcoholism Treatment Options

  • Behavioral Treatments: With therapy, behavioral treatments try to alter a person’s drinking habits. Health professionals direct them, and research demonstrating their potential for good backs them up.
With therapy, behavioral treatments try to alter a person's drinking habits.
With therapy, behavioral treatments try to alter a person’s drinking habits.
  • Medications: To assist people in cutting back on their drinking and avoid relapsing, three drugs are now approved in the US. They can be taken independently or in conjunction with psychotherapy and are prescribed by a primary care physician or another healthcare provider.
  • Mutual-Support Groups: Peer support is offered by Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and other 12-step programs for those who are giving up or cutting back on drinking. Mutual-support groups can provide an invaluable additional layer of support when combined with care provided by medical experts. Researchers find it challenging to evaluate the success rates of mutual-support groups run by health professionals and those led by laypeople due to the anonymity of these organizations.

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Creating a treatment plan that addresses the physical aspects of withdrawal, the psychological connection with drug use, and managing underlying mental health disorders is part of setting clients up for success. A thorough mental health analysis identifies possibilities for treatment. Meeting with mental health counselors and medical care providers means access to behavioral therapy and medication treatment. At our dual diagnosis treatment center, We Level Up can implement the highest quality of care. 

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Consequences of Alcohol in Breastmilk: Alcoholism Treatment Informative Video

Alcoholism Treatment Informative Video

[Introduction]
Alcohol consumption during breastfeeding can have serious consequences for both the mother and child. The alcohol can pass into breastmilk and affect the baby’s brain development, sleep, and motor function. Furthermore, it can increase the risk of accidents and long-term exposure to alcohol for the child. In this informative video, we discuss the consequences of alcohol in breastmilk and the importance of alcoholism treatment for mothers.

[Consequences for the baby]
Studies have found that drinking alcohol while breastfeeding can cause lower milk quality, slower milk production, and decreased milk supply. However, alcohol can have many negative consequences for the baby. Alcohol can impair the baby’s motor function, making them appear drowsy and lethargic. Alcohol in breastmilk can also affect the baby’s sleep patterns and overall development, including cognitive function and language development.

[Consequences for the mother]
Drinking alcohol while breastfeeding can also have consequences for the nursing mother. Alcohol can impair judgment and coordination, increasing the risk of accidents or falls. Furthermore, drinking alcohol can hurt the mother’s mental health and well-being. Prolonged alcohol use can lead to addiction, making it harder for mothers to quit drinking without the help of alcoholism treatment services.

Search We Level Up Alcohol in Breastmilk Resources
Sources

https://www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding/breastfeeding-special-circumstances/vaccinations-medications-drugs/alcohol.html

Alcohol | Breastfeeding | CDC

Alcohol – Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed®) – NCBI Bookshelf (nih.gov)

Koren, G. Drinking alcohol while breastfeeding. Motherisk Update. Canadian Family Physician 2002; 48:39-41

Mennella JA, Beauchamp GK. The transfer of alcohol to human milk: Effects on flavor and the infant’s behavior. New England Journal of Medicine 1991;325: 981-985.

Mennella JA, Beauchamp GK. Beer, breast feeding and folklore. Developmental Psychobiology 1993;26: 459-466.

Mennella JA. The human infant’s suckling responses to the flavor of alcohol in mother’s milk. Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research 1997;21:581-585.

Mennella JA. The transfer of alcohol to human milk: Sensory implications and effects on mother-infant interaction. In: Hannigan JH, Spear N, Spear L and Goodlett CR, eds. Alcohol and Alcoholism: Brain and Development . New Jersey: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates, Inc., 1999. pp. 177-198.