Bollywood actress Radhika Apte recently shared a picture of herself holding a champagne while using a breast pump. "I have to thank Natasha for making it possible for me to attend the BAFTAs. She scheduled the itinerary around my breast pumping timings. She not only accompanied me to the washroom to express milk but more importantly brought me champagne in the loo. It’s hard as is to be a new mum and work, this level of care and sensitivity is rare in our film industry and much appreciated (sic)," she wrote, along with the photo.
While the image was likely meant in good humor, it has raised an important health question: Can new mothers safely consume alcohol while breastfeeding? Netizens slammed Radhika for spreading a wrong message and possibly influencing other lactating women in the wrong manner. Let's understand how alcohol can affect mothers and newly born babies.
Understanding alcohol and breastfeeding
Alcohol enters breast milk in similar concentrations as in the bloodstream, which means whatever a mother drinks can also be passed on to the baby. According to the National institutes Of Health, "Women who breastfeed their children should avoid drinking alcohol during the breastfeeding period, especially in large amounts over short periods of time (binge drinking), and especially if the child was already exposed to alcohol in the prenatal period."
The study also said that even though the amounts of alcohol that have been found to pass from mother to baby are proportionally low, alcohol in the breastmilk has been found to be a significant enough factor to limit or otherwise further delay a child’s physical growth and neurodevelopment.
Dr. Gandhali Deorukhkar, Consulting Gynaecologist & Obstetrician, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central said, "While the occasional use of alcohol isn't completely forbidden, it must be done with caution. Alcohol does pass into breast milk, and can have some impact on the baby's growth, sleeping pattern, and feeding habits. It usually takes two hours for a single drink (a beer, a glass of wine, or a shot of hard liquor) to be eliminated from the breast milk, varying with body weight and metabolism."
How much alcohol is safe?
Medical professionals generally agree that occasional, moderate drinking is unlikely to harm a baby. According to Dr. Deorukhkar, "To reduce risk, breastfeeding mothers may adopt the "pump and store" practice-pumping prior to consuming or wait a minimum of two hours between each drink before feeding. Alcohol test strips for breast milk are also an option for increased safety."
If a mother has consumed more than a moderate amount, the best practice is to pump and discard the milk produced while alcohol is still in her system.
Effects of Alcohol on Babies
While occasional drinking may not be harmful, excessive alcohol consumption can lead to drowsiness, weakness, and developmental issues in infants. High levels of alcohol in breast milk can also interfere with milk production.
An expert warns, “Alcohol can reduce the baby’s ability to suck properly and may disrupt sleep patterns. Long-term exposure could have developmental consequences.”
Moderation is key but avoiding is the best
For lactating mothers, the safest choice is to either avoid alcohol or consume it in moderation while timing feedings appropriately. Staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet, and following medical advice can help ensure both mother and baby stay healthy.
As Radhika Apte’s image continues to make waves, it serves as an opportunity to discuss responsible alcohol consumption during breastfeeding. Consulting a doctor for personalised advice is always the best approach.
