When to Breastfeed Again After Alcohol Calculator – Safe Timing
Calculate safe time to breastfeed after alcohol consumption
How to Use
- Enter the number of alcoholic drinks consumed
- Specify the alcohol content per drink (ounces)
- Enter the alcohol percentage of your drinks
- Input your body weight and select unit
- Enter time elapsed since your first drink
- Click calculate to see when it's safe to breastfeed
- Review your current BAC and time remaining
Alcohol and Breastfeeding
Alcohol passes freely into breast milk, reaching levels similar to maternal blood alcohol content. The highest alcohol levels in milk occur 30-60 minutes after consumption (60-90 minutes if consumed with food).
The American Academy of Pediatrics considers moderate alcohol consumption compatible with breastfeeding, but recommends waiting 2-3 hours per drink before nursing.
How This Calculator Works
This calculator uses the Widmark formula to estimate blood alcohol content (BAC) based on drinks consumed, alcohol content, body weight, and time elapsed. It assumes an alcohol elimination rate of approximately 0.015% per hour.
The calculator determines when your BAC reaches 0%, which is when it's completely safe to breastfeed without any alcohol present in your milk.
Alcohol Metabolism Rates
| Drink Type | Typical Size | Alcohol % | Wait Time* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beer | 12 oz | 5% | 2-3 hours |
| Wine | 5 oz | 12% | 2-3 hours |
| Spirits | 1.5 oz | 40% | 2-3 hours |
| 2 Drinks | Standard | Varies | 4-5 hours |
*Wait times for a 150 lb (68 kg) woman. Heavier individuals may metabolize faster; lighter individuals may need more time.
Pump and Dump
Pumping and dumping does not speed up alcohol elimination from your body or breast milk. Alcohol leaves breast milk at the same rate it leaves your bloodstream - approximately 0.015% per hour.
However, pumping may be necessary for comfort or to maintain milk supply if you're waiting several hours to breastfeed. The pumped milk containing alcohol should be discarded.
Safety Guidelines
- Plan ahead: breastfeed immediately before drinking
- Have a supply of expressed milk available
- Wait at least 2 hours per standard drink before breastfeeding
- Consider your baby's age and feeding frequency
- Never bed-share with your baby after drinking alcohol
- Ensure a sober caregiver is present if drinking
- If engorged, pump and discard milk containing alcohol
- When in doubt, wait longer or use stored milk
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long after drinking can I breastfeed?
- Wait at least 2-3 hours per standard drink before breastfeeding. This calculator provides a personalized estimate based on your specific situation, including body weight and exact drinks consumed.
- Does pumping and dumping help remove alcohol faster?
- No. Pumping and dumping does not speed up alcohol elimination from your body or breast milk. Alcohol clears from milk at the same rate as your blood - only time will eliminate it.
- Can I breastfeed with any amount of alcohol in my system?
- While small amounts are generally considered safe, it's safest to wait until your BAC is 0%. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends waiting 2 hours per drink. This calculator helps you determine exactly when your BAC reaches zero.
- What if I need to feed before my BAC is zero?
- Use previously pumped and stored breast milk if available. If you must breastfeed before your BAC reaches zero, be aware that some alcohol will be present in your milk. Consult your pediatrician for specific guidance.