Breastfeeding After Surgery

Most medications are safe for breastfeeding mothers and their infants. Although the majority of medications will not harm the infant, mothers should take them only when absolutely necessary.

As a general rule, if the infant dose is less than ten percent, the medication is safe to use while breastfeeding. While the infant dose of most adult medications is less than one percent, if you have questions, please check with your child's doctor.

If your infant is premature or a newborn, be more aware of using medications. Watch your infant for any changes in behavior or bowel habits once you start taking a medication. Call your child's doctor if you notice changes that could be related to the medication you are taking.