Question

I am a breastfeeding mother and i want to know if it is safe to use E-cigarette? Is E-cigarette safe for nursing mother and child? Does E-cigarette extracts into breast milk? Does E-cigarette has any long term or short term side effects on infants? Can E-cigarette influence milk supply or can E-cigarette decrease milk supply in lactating mothers?

E-cigarette lactation summary

E-cigarette usage has low risk in breastfeeding
  • DrLact safety Score for E-cigarette is 3 out of 8 which is considered Low Risk as per our analyses.
  • A safety Score of 3 indicates that usage of E-cigarette may cause some minor side effects in breastfed baby.
  • Our study of different scientific research indicates that E-cigarette may cause moderate to no side effects in lactating mother.
  • Most of scientific studies and research papers declaring usage of E-cigarette low risk in breastfeeding are based on normal dosage and may not hold true for higher dosage.
  • While using E-cigarette We suggest monitoring child for possible reactions. It is also important to understand that side effects vary largely based on age of breastfed child and time of medication in addition to dosage.
  • Score calculated using the DrLact safety Version 1.2 model, this score ranges from 0 to 8 and measures overall safety of drug in lactation. Scores are primarily calculated using publicly available case studies, research papers, other scientific journals and publically available data.

Answer by Dr. Ru: About E-cigarette usage in lactation

Nicotine levels in the blood of the mother (hence in mother's milk as well) are ten times lower than that reached in women's who smoke normal cigarettes. However, because of concomitant appearance of chemical products in the electronic cigarettes that are considered to be toxic, the lack of information of effects on the heath welfare and a high risk of becoming a long-lasting substitute of tobacco consumption, it should not be used as a replacement therapy. For this purpose is recommended the use of nicotine patches or chewing gum. Nicotine excretion is lower at two hours after inhalation.
Disclaimer: Information presented in this database is not meant as a substitute for professional judgment. You should consult your healthcare provider for breastfeeding advice related to your particular situation. We do not warrant or assume any liability or responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of the information on this Site.