Should Mothers Smoke During Breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding and smoking do not mix and it is not only unhealthy, but dangerous. If the mother smokes more than 20 cigarettes a day, baby’s risk potential increases significantly. Obviously, the more mom smokes, the more baby is harmed.

A mother who is a heavy smoker is taking the chance of not only reducing her milk supply, but creating problems for baby such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and stomach cramps.

When a breastfeeding mother smokes, her nicotine levels increase not only in her blood, but in her milk. If mom lights up just prior to breastfeeding, baby is in a high risk situation.

If a nursing mother is unable to quit smoking completely, at least wait ninety-five minutes after smoking to breastfeed. This is the length of time it takes for half of the nicotine to be eliminated from the mother’s body.

Less milk production is not the only problem a smoking mother will face. Studies have linked smoking to inhibiting the “let down” reflex. Prolactin blood levels may also lower. It has also been a cause of early weaning.

Baby’s whose mother’s smoke are known to be fussier and possibly colicky when compared to babies whose mother’s are non-smokers.

Even if a mother does not smoke, there is still a risk from second hand smoke. Keep the infant away from people who smoke cigarettes or cigars. Babies that inhale smoke may contract a respiratory illness have delayed or stunted development and even become a victim of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome or SIDS.

Almost everyone is aware that smoking increases the risk of lung, mouth, lip and tongue cancer. Yet, these same people allow second hand smoke around them.

Regardless of whether a mother chooses to breastfeed should quit smoking. However, if quitting is out of the question for one reason or another she is still advised to breastfeed. The benefits of breastfeeding are greater than the consequences of smoking. Mom should continue to enjoy breastfeeding even if her nicotine habit is not completely kicked.

Paul Heitman is the owner of Childbirth-Pregnancy-Guide.com. CLICK HERE to get a Free Special Report and to find more up-to-date articles and resources about pregnancy and breastfeeding.

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