Alcohol, which is taken through drinks, can pass into breast
milk in proportion to the level in the mother's blood. About 30-60 minutes
after starting to drink alcoholic beverages, the level of alcohol in breast
milk reaches its maximum. The level of alcohol in breast milk is almost the
same as in mother's blood, the increase continues in parallel. While drinking
alcohol, it is seen that the flow of milk from the breasts is not strong and abundant
because alcohol slows down the milk flow. However, after the effect of alcohol
has passed, as the milk accumulated in the breasts will flow excessively, it
can make a false impression that alcohol increases milk. Alcohol does not
increase breast milk or have a beneficial effect, but also reduces the baby's
sucking appetite and duration. Since alcohol use will change the smell and
taste of breast milk, the baby may refuse to suck.
During postpartum and breastfeeding period after birth,
alcohol consumption may have effects such as drowsiness, deep sleepiness,
weakness in the baby. The long-term effects of regular alcohol consumption on
the baby every day are controversial. In some studies, although it has been
reported that the baby has decreased motor and mental functions, not all
studies have confirmed this. The type of alcohol such as beer, wine, whiskey,
vodka does not make a difference, all the same effect is expected. In order to
minimize the harm of the baby due to alcohol, it should not be breastfed for at
least 2-3 hours after the alcohol intake is over. For this reason, it is best
to breastfeed the baby just before you start drinking alcohol. Chronic regular
alcohol consumption has the potential to cause much more harm than occasional
social drinking. Babies metabolize alcohol is half slower than adults.
Although it takes about 2 hours to remove alcohol from breast
milk after a mild alcohol intake, this time may vary depending on the weight of
the mother, the amount of alcohol she consumes, and the rate of drinking. In
excessive alcohol consumption, it may take up to 6 hours to completely remove
alcohol from breast milk. Procedures such as drinking plenty of water while
drinking alcohol, drinking coffee, walking, milking breasts do not decrease the
amount of alcohol in milk faster.
In summary: During the
breastfeeding period, a small amount of alcohol (1 or 2 glasses) is not
considered to have a negative effect on the baby. No side effects are expected
unless breastfeeding is performed for 2 hours, especially after alcohol.
However, consuming regular and large amounts of alcoholic drinks every day can
have negative effects on the baby and cause the mother to wean the baby early.
