Even if you smoke breastfeeding is still the best way to nourish your baby. Hopefully during your pregnancy you have cut back on the number of cigarettes you smoke. Just like when you were pregnant, it is important to think about how much you are smoking while breastfeeding. Heavy smoking can cause lower milk production. If you do smoke, do it after you have fed the baby so there is less nicotine in the milk. If you smoke less than 20 cigarettes a day the baby is at less risk from the nicotine. At 20 to 30 cigarettes you and your baby are at a greater health risk. Whether you breastfeed or bottle feed, second-hand smoke increases baby's risk of pneumonia, bronchitis, and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. Always smoke outside or in another room. At least try to cut down, or better yet find a support group to help you quit.
