In a recent Instagram post, singer-songwriter Jessie Jane Thompson stirred up quite the conversation when she shared a candid moment of herself breastfeeding her son, Oliver, while seemingly enjoying a glass of wine. The image shows Thompson comfortably feeding her baby, holding a flute containing a pinkish drink that appears to be wine. This sparked a wave of criticism from some who felt her actions were inappropriate.
Almost immediately, opinions flooded in about the implications of the photo. However, the science surrounding alcohol consumption during breastfeeding might ease some minds. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), moderate alcohol consumption—defined as up to one standard drink per day—isn’t considered harmful to infants. They recommend waiting at least two hours after having a drink before nursing again to minimize any potential alcohol levels in breast milk.
To clarify, a “standard drink” equates to 0.6 ounces of pure alcohol, which can be found in a 12-ounce beer, a 5-ounce glass of wine, or a 1.5-ounce shot of liquor. The American Academy of Pediatrics echoes this guidance, advising nursing mothers to wait two hours or longer post-drinking to ensure that alcohol concentration in breast milk is as low as possible.
It’s important to understand that the alcohol concentration in breast milk mirrors the blood alcohol concentration, peaking around 30-45 minutes after drinking. As the body metabolizes the alcohol, these levels decrease, which is why the two-hour guideline is recommended. Sipping a drink while nursing can lead to different effects on the body and baby, primarily due to the dilution of alcohol over time.
If you have any concerns regarding alcohol consumption—whether for yourself or a public figure—don’t hesitate to consult your doctor. For more insights on navigating motherhood, check out our post on the at-home insemination kit here and discover ways to embrace your parenting journey. Also, if you’re looking to boost your fitness routine, consider the benefits of jumping rope, as detailed by experts here. For comprehensive information on pregnancy and insemination, visit this excellent resource here.
In summary, while Jessie Jane Thompson’s photo elicited criticism, scientific guidelines suggest that moderate alcohol consumption is acceptable during breastfeeding, provided certain precautions are taken. The conversation surrounding this topic continues to evolve, making it vital for mothers to stay informed.