A New Beginning

Frequently Asked Questions about Breastfeeding Breast Surgery, Taking Certain Medications

How does breast surgery affect breastfeeding?

Several factors can affect your milk production, such as how much time has passed since surgery and the type of surgical procedure. Any type of breast surgery (biopsy, lumpectomy, lift, reduction, implant) may decrease breast stimulation and interrupt the flow of breast milk. Engorgement may occur above the ducts where flow may have been interrupted. To optimize milk production, more breast stimulation may be recommended. Breast implant • Due to possible limited expansion of the breast tissue, you may be at higher risk for engorgement. Breast reduction/lift • This type of breast surgery may sever or damage the milk ducts and major nerves, resulting in decreased breast stimulation and interruption of milk flow. Adequate nerve stimulation is necessary for milk production and milk let-down. • Effective and consistent breastfeeding is the ideal form of breast stimulation. Babies who breastfeed every 2 to 3 hours optimize milk production. With a history of breast reduction, double pumping is recommended for added breast stimulation. • Supplementation may be necessary until your milk volume meets your baby’s nutritional requirements. We recommend that you breastfeed, pump, and supplement (if necessary) at each feeding or as directed by your lactation consultant. • When your baby is 5 to 7 days old, replace a midmorning breastfeeding with 15 minutes of double pumping to measure your milk volume. Call the Lactation Center with an update. An outpatient lactation consultation may be recommended for additional assistance. Within 7 days after leaving the hospital, have your infant’s weight checked. Please review your breast surgery history with your baby’s health care provider.

Can I breastfeed if I am taking certain medications?

Many medications pass into the milk, although in very small amounts. Most do not pose a problem with breastfeeding. On occasion, you may need to pump and discard your milk while on a particular medication. Contact your health care provider or Northside Hospital’s Lactation Advice Line before starting a new medication: • Northside Hospital Atlanta and Forsyth ...............................................................................404.303.3329 • Northside Hospital Cherokee ..........770.224.1970 • Georgia Poison Control ......................404.616.9000 ....................................................TOLL FREE: 800.222.1222

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A New Beginning