HealthPartners - Preparing for childbirth

Frequently Asked Questions about Breastfeeding

Will my breasts leak all the time?

Everyone is different. If your breasts start to leak when you’re not feeding your baby, gently press on your nipples with your hand or your arm to stop the leak. You can do this discreetly by crossing your arms and pressing them against your chest. Wearing disposable or washable breast pads inside your bra will help keep your clothes dry. Change a damp pad as soon as you can to protect the skin on your nipple.

Do I need to give my baby water or formula?

Breast milk has everything your baby needs to be healthy. Healthy full-term babies don’t need formula unless it is for medical treatment or if breast milk is not available. Formula can decrease the healthy bacteria in your baby’s gut that protects against infection. If your baby receives formula, they may not breastfeed as often. This can lead to engorgement , a lower milk supply, and not reaching your breastfeeding goals. Talk to your baby’s provider before giving your baby formula.

Can I breastfeed if I’m taking certain medicines?

Many medications pass into your breast milk in very small amounts. Most are not a problem for breastfeeding, although you may need to pump and discard your milk if you must take a specific medication. Talk to your health care professional or lactation consultant before you start taking any new medication.

Is it OK to use alcohol or caffeine while I’m breastfeeding?

Alcohol gets into your breast milk and into your baby. If you drink any alcohol, wait 2 to 3 hours for each drink you had before you nurse your baby. Both alcohol and caffeine have been shown to interfere with the breast milk let-down reflex . Caffeine can cause symptoms of colic or irritability in a baby, so avoid it completely or limit yourself to only 1 or 2 servings per day.

Can I breastfeed if I’ve had breast surgery?

It depends on what type of surgery you had and when you had it. Any type of surgery (biopsy, lumpectomy, lift, reduction, implants) may decrease breast stimulation and interrupt the flow of breast milk. A lactation consultant can help you make a plan to feed your baby. You may have to pump or do other things to help you breastfeed. Talk to your baby’s health care provider about any breast surgery you’ve had. They will monitor your baby’s weight to make sure they are getting enough to eat.

106 Your Guide to Labor and Birth