When
Not to
Breastfeed
Most all women can physically breastfeed; however, there are cases when a woman should not breastfeed. Some of these include:
Most all women can physically breastfeed; however, there are cases when a woman should not breastfeed. Some of these include:
- If she's taking illegal drugs
- If she has an alcohol problem
- If she's on certain medications (talk to your doctor and the lactation consultant if unsure)
- If she has certain infections such as HIV, TB, Chicken Pox, Herpes with lesions on the breasts, or Human T-cell Lymphotropic Virus Type I or Type II
- If the infant is lactose intolerant
- If the mother is being treated for breast cancer
- If you have any concerns about breastfeeding, please talk to your doctor and/or a lactation consultant
Sources:
- http://www.breastfeedingbasics.org/cgi-bin/deliver.cgi/content/Introduction/notbreastfeed.html
- http://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/Breastfeeding.cfm
- ACOG. "Breastfeeding: Maternal and Infant Aspects." Committee on Health Care for Underserved Women Committee on Obstetric Practice. January-February 2007; Vol. 12, Issue 1 (Supplement): Special Report From ACOG.
Disclaimer: This information is meant for educational purposes only and cannot replace medical advice. Contact your doctor about any concerns you have.