Many breastfeeding mothers face a difficult decision when they need medication for an infection or chronic condition: whether to take it while nursing. A 2023 study in the journal Breastfeeding Medicine found that over 90% of breastfeeding women in the U.S. use at least one medication postpartum, yet reliable safety data is often lacking.
Dr. Sarah Smith, a pharmacist and researcher at the University of Michigan, notes that most medications lack rigorous studies in breastfeeding women. 'The default is often to advise against breastfeeding or to stop the medication, which may not be necessary,' she told the New York Times in a 2024 interview. The U.S. National Library of Medicine's LactMed database provides some guidance, but it covers only about 1,000 drugs.
A 2025 review in JAMA Pediatrics highlighted that many common medications, such as antibiotics for mastitis or antidepressants for postpartum depression, are generally safe, but women often receive conflicting advice from healthcare providers. The review called for more research and better communication tools.
Experts recommend that breastfeeding mothers consult resources like LactMed or speak with a lactation consultant. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises that most medications are compatible with breastfeeding, but individual assessment is key.
