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Is it okay to breastfeed after two glasses of wine?

Understanding Alcohol Consumption While Breastfeeding
The question of whether it is safe to breastfeed after consuming two glasses of wine is a common concern among new mothers. The consensus among health professionals is that moderate alcohol consumption can be compatible with breastfeeding, but there are important guidelines to consider.
Moderation is Key
According to various health sources, including the CDC and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), moderate alcohol consumption is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. This typically means limiting intake to about one standard drink per day. For a mother weighing around 60 kilograms (approximately 132 pounds), this translates to about 8 ounces of wine or two beers.
Timing Matters
After consuming alcohol, timing is crucial. It is recommended that mothers wait at least two hours after having one standard drink before breastfeeding. For two glasses of wine, the advised waiting period extends to four to five hours. This waiting period allows the body to metabolize the alcohol, thereby reducing the amount that could be present in breast milk .
Effects on Milk Production and Letdown
Research indicates that alcohol can affect milk production and the letdown reflex. Studies have shown that breastfeeding women may express nearly 10% less milk in the first two hours after moderate drinking, and babies may receive about 20% less milk if nursed within the first four hours post-consumption. This reduction in milk availability can be a concern for mothers who are trying to maintain a steady supply.
Potential Risks of Excessive Drinking
While moderate drinking is generally deemed acceptable, excessive alcohol consumption can lead to more serious issues. Regularly consuming large amounts of alcohol may interfere with breastfeeding duration and milk production, potentially harming the baby. Therefore, if a mother finds herself frequently consuming alcohol, it may be wise to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding after two glasses of wine is not outright prohibited, but it requires careful consideration of timing and moderation. By adhering to recommended guidelines—waiting several hours after drinking and limiting intake—mothers can enjoy a glass of wine while still prioritizing their baby’s health. As always, if there are any doubts or concerns, seeking guidance from a healthcare provider is the best course of action.

How long to wait to breastfeed after drinking chart calculator?

How many hours after drinking until your breast milk no longer contains alcohol

1 standard drink 2 hours
2 standard drinks 4 hours
3 standard drinks 6 hours
4 standard drinks 8 hours
5 standard drinks 10 hours

How do I know if my baby is affected by alcohol in breastmilk?

If your baby consumes breast milk with alcohol in it, it may have negative effects on your baby, including:

  • Increased crying.
  • Increased arousal.
  • Decreased milk intake.
  • Decreased weight gain.
  • Increased REM sleep (rapid eye movement sleep when their brain is more active)

How many units are in a glass of wine?

Drinks and units

Type of drink Number of alcohol units
Pint of lower-strength lager/beer/cider (ABV 3.6%) 2 units
Standard glass of red/white/rosé wine (175ml, ABV 12%) 2.1 units
Pint of higher-strength lager/beer/cider (ABV 5.2%) 3 units
Large glass of red/white/rosé wine (250ml, ABV 12%) 3 units

What happens if I breastfeed after drinking?

When a person drinks, a small amount of alcohol passes through the blood into breast milk. Regular exposure to too much alcohol can affect a baby’s growth, development and sleep. The baby might seem drowsy and weak and have unhealthy weight gain. Alcohol also can affect the ability to safely care for a baby.

What happens if you breastfeed your baby after drinking?

When a person drinks, a small amount of alcohol passes through the blood into breast milk. Regular exposure to too much alcohol can affect a baby’s growth, development and sleep. The baby might seem drowsy and weak and have unhealthy weight gain. Alcohol also can affect the ability to safely care for a baby.

Can I breastfeed after 2 glasses of wine?

Alcohol can pass into your breastmilk and then into your baby when you feed them. An occasional drink is unlikely to harm your baby especially if you wait at least 2 hours after having a drink before feeding.. Regularly drinking above the recommended limits can be harmful for you and your baby.

How long is breast milk good for after baby drinks?

Leftover breast milk can still be used within 2 hours after the baby is finished feeding. After 2 hours, leftover breast milk should be thrown away. To avoid wasting unfed milk, consider storing, thawing, and warming it in smaller amounts. See Breast Milk Storage and Preparation for more information.

How much alcohol is in breastmilk after 2 drinks?

The amount of alcohol taken in by a nursing infant through breast milk is estimated to be 5% to 6% of the weight-adjusted maternal dose. Alcohol can typically be detected in breast milk for about 2 to 3 hours after a single drink is consumed.

How long does it take for 1 glass of wine to leave your system?

about 3 hours
A large glass of wine takes about 3 hours to completely metabolize, whereas some drinks can take as long as 6. Another thing to consider is how long alcohol use (wine or otherwise) can be detected. Consumption can be noticeable for up to 12-24 in breath/saliva or urine, and up to 90 days in hair particles.

How long does a glass of wine stay in your breast milk?

The CDC state “Alcohol from 1 drink can be detected in breast milk for about 2-3 hours, alcohol from 2 drinks can be detected for about 4-5 hours, and alcohol from 3 drinks can be detected for about 6-8 hours, and so on.”

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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