Smoking and breastfeeding — Is it allowed?

Information about the risks, alternatives, and your options as a mother.

If you smoke, can you still breastfeed? While smoking is never risk-free, breastfeeding is still recommended—under certain conditions.

Risks to consider:

• Nicotine and toxins pass into breast milk.

• Smoking may reduce milk supply.

• Increased risk of SIDS, ear infections, and respiratory issues in the baby.

If you do smoke:

• Quitting is best. Seek support from your doctor or a stop-smoking program.

• Never smoke near your baby or indoors.

• Breastfeed before smoking. This minimizes nicotine in your milk.

• Consider nicotine replacements like patches—often safer than cigarettes, but consult a healthcare professional first.

Despite the risks, breastfeeding still offers important protections for babies—even when the mother smokes.