Breastfeeding is the healthiest way to feed your child, even if you are a smoker. Having a smoke-free environment is best for both you and your child.

The fewer cigarettes a breastfeeding parent smokes, the better it is for everyone. Nicotine can be found in the breastmilk and can reduce breastmilk supply. Too much nicotine may cause the child to have an upset stomach or be fussy.

If you smoke, here are some tips to help you decrease the health risks for your child:

• Reduce the number of cigarettes you smoke each day.
• Time your smoking – smoking immediately after child feeds or when you know your child may sleep for a longer stretch of time. This will allow time for the nicotine levels in your blood to decrease before your child feeds again.
• Wash your hands and change your outer layer of clothes before caring for or breastfeeding your child.

Here are some tips to help decrease health risks for you and your child:

• Avoid exposing your child to second and third hand smoke.
• Ask family members and visitors to smoke outside.
• Ask people who smoke to wash their hands and remove an outer layer of clothing before holding, playing, or caring for your child.
• Keep your vehicle smoke-free.

Help and Support:

Talk to your health professional and/or make a confidential call to:

Smokers' Helpline English / Francais 1-877-513-5333

Visit:

Tobacco-Free Living - Quitting

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