What happens if a baby drinks breastmilk with alcohol?

The Impact of Alcohol in Breast Milk on Infants
When it comes to breastfeeding, the question of alcohol consumption by nursing mothers is a topic of considerable concern and debate. While moderate drinking is often deemed acceptable, the implications of a baby consuming breast milk that contains alcohol can be significant.
Alcohol Transfer to Breast Milk
Alcohol does indeed pass into breast milk, and its concentration is similar to that found in the mother’s bloodstream. For instance, after consuming one standard drink, alcohol can be detected in breast milk for approximately 2 to 3 hours, while two drinks may extend this duration to about 4 to 5 hours. This means that if a mother drinks alcohol, her baby could ingest it through breastfeeding, albeit in small amounts.
Moderate Consumption Guidelines
Research suggests that moderate alcohol consumption—defined as about one drink per day—is unlikely to cause harm to infants. Organizations like the CDC and La Leche League International indicate that there have been no documented harmful effects on babies from this level of alcohol intake. However, it is crucial to note that “moderate” does not equate to excessive drinking, which can lead to more serious consequences.
Potential Risks of Excessive Alcohol Intake
Excessive alcohol consumption poses several risks not only to the mother but also to the infant. High levels of alcohol in breast milk can lead to sleep disturbances, growth issues, and developmental delays in babies . Symptoms that may indicate a baby has consumed alcohol through breast milk include increased crying, drowsiness, lethargy, nausea, and vomiting. These effects can be distressing for both the infant and the mother, highlighting the importance of moderation.
Long-Term Developmental Concerns
While occasional moderate drinking may not have immediate harmful effects, regular exposure to alcohol through breast milk has been linked to developmental delays. This raises concerns about the long-term implications of habitual drinking during breastfeeding, suggesting that mothers should be cautious and mindful of their alcohol intake.
Conclusion
In summary, while moderate alcohol consumption by breastfeeding mothers is generally considered safe, it is essential to approach the subject with caution. The transfer of alcohol to breast milk can affect infants, particularly if consumed in excess. Mothers are encouraged to limit their alcohol intake and be aware of the potential effects on their babies, ensuring that breastfeeding remains a healthy and nurturing experience for both mother and child.

What can happen to the baby if the mother drinks alcohol?

Drinking alcohol during pregnancy increases the risk of miscarriage, premature birth and your baby having a low birthweight. It can also affect your baby after they’re born. Drinking during pregnancy can cause your baby to develop a serious life-long condition called fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD).

How long does it take for alcohol to cycle out of breastmilk?

The more alcohol consumed, the longer it takes to clear the body. 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.”

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

How Does Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) Affect Children? Children with fetal alcohol syndrome have facial features such as small eyes, a thin upper lip, and a smooth philtrum (the groove between nose and upper lip). They also can have: Poor growth.

Can a baby get fetal alcohol syndrome from breast milk?

Although alcohol exposure through the consumption of breast milk does not cause FASD, it can impact central nervous system development vii. Historically, alcohol consumption was encouraged during breastfeeding as a way to help women relax, promote lactation and letdown, as well as enhancing infant sleep.

How much alcohol can cause fetal alcohol syndrome?

Causes. FASDs can occur when a person is exposed to alcohol before birth. Alcohol in the mother’s blood passes to the baby through the umbilical cord. There is no known safe amount of alcohol during pregnancy or when trying to get pregnant.

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)

What to do if a child accidentally drinks alcohol?

If ingestion of alcohol is suspected, call the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 or call your physician immediately.

What are the four problems a baby born to a mother who drank alcohol during pregnancy may have?

Hearing loss, heart problems and cleft lip are some examples of birth defects. Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (also called FASDs). Children with FASDs may have a range of problems, including intellectual and developmental disabilities.

How much alcohol in breastmilk will affect baby?

Ultimately, just as in pregnancy, there is no known safe level of alcohol consumption while breastfeeding. We cannot know for certain the safety of even small amounts of alcohol for young babies.

How long does it take for alcohol to enter breast milk?

Alcohol gets into your breast milk from your blood. It moves freely from blood into breast milk and back out again. Alcohol shows up in your breast milk almost right away, and is at the highest levels 30–60 minutes after you start drinking.