Wondering if you can have that glass of wine even though you're breastfeeding? Generally speaking, yes!

Alcohol in moderation is compatible with breastfeeding

Consuming alcohol in excessive amounts should be avoided, but it is generally safe for breastfeeding mothers to have alcoholic beverages in moderation. Further, the blanket advice of needing to "pump and dump" is typically unnecessary because alcohol is not stored in your breast milk. It is continuously eliminated as it leaves your bloodstream. It's more important to consider timing your feeds if you've consumed alcohol.

Offer your baby a full feed before you drink, and wait 2-3 hours after a drink

The concentration of alcohol in your breast milk will be similar to that in your bloodstream. This is why waiting at least two to three hours per standard drink is advisable. This allows your body time to process and eliminate the alcohol. In short, if you're no longer feeling the effects of alcohol, it's safe to nurse.

Be wary of "mommy juice" culture

Just because there's a safe way to enjoy an alcoholic beverage while breastfeeding doesn't mean it is a healthy habit to layer in regularly. Alcohol can dehydrate, disrupt your hormones, and negatively impact your supply. Many women have also found the notion of "mommy juice culture," or drinking alcohol to directly alleviate parenting stress, to be a dangerous habit that can create a dependency on alcohol as a coping tool.

If you're unsure about your relationship with alcohol and its safety in your postpartum or breastfeeding journey, don't hesitate to speak with your doctor.