12/31/2024
This New Year’s Eve, let’s celebrate responsibly—and with less stress! Earlier today, I saw a mommy wondering about pumping and dumping after a drink, and it reminded me how many breastfeeding parents still don’t know that pump and dump is outdated.
Here’s the truth: Alcohol doesn’t stay in your milk—it metabolizes over time, just like it does in your bloodstream. If you’ve had a drink, there’s no need to rush to clear your milk. Simply waiting is all that’s needed to ensure your milk is safe for baby.
Here’s the general rule:
• Wait about 2 hours per standard drink before breastfeeding again. (That’s roughly one beer, one glass of wine, or one shot of liquor.)
• If you feel sober, your milk is likely fine!
Pumping and dumping doesn’t speed up alcohol leaving your milk or your body—it’s all about time. Knowing this makes it easier to enjoy a celebratory toast without the guilt or waste.
So, Happy New Year’s Eve! Drink responsibly, enjoy your celebrations, and raise a glass to informed, empowered choices. Let’s spread the word and give breastfeeding parents one less thing to stress about. Enjoy this chart from that I love!
