COVID-19 vaccination is considered safe for people who are breastfeeding and is not thought to pose a risk to nursing infants. The antibodies your body produces after vaccination may also pass through breast milk and provide some protection to your baby. Because vaccine recommendations and available evidence continue to evolve, talk with your physician or pediatrician if you have questions or concerns about COVID-19 vaccination while breastfeeding.
With the COVID-19 vaccine becoming more available to the general population, many families have reached out with questions. Is it safe to receive it while breastfeeding? If so, does it offer any protection to the baby?
The bottom line is we don’t know yet. Studies are ongoing but, based on the science behind them, mRNA vaccines (like the Pfizer and Moderna shots) are not believed to be a risk to the breastfeeding infant. Both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) agree that the COVID-19 vaccine should be offered to lactating women. There is even the likely possibility that antibodies your body makes against COVID-19 will pass to your infant through your breastmilk and offer protection.
Data is being constantly collected and information is being updated daily. Follow up with the links above to get the most current recommendations and always discuss your questions or concerns with your physician.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the COVID-19 vaccine safe while breastfeeding?
Yes. COVID-19 vaccination is considered safe for people who are breastfeeding. The vaccines do not contain live virus and cannot cause COVID-19 in you or your baby.
Can the COVID-19 vaccine affect my breast milk?
Vaccination does not require you to stop or pause breastfeeding. Your body produces antibodies after vaccination, and some of these antibodies can pass into breast milk.
Can antibodies from the vaccine help protect my baby?
Research has found COVID-19 antibodies in the breast milk of vaccinated mothers. These antibodies may provide some protection to breastfeeding infants.
Should I stop breastfeeding after getting vaccinated?
No. In general, there is no need to stop breastfeeding or discard breast milk after receiving a COVID-19 vaccine.
What side effects can I expect after vaccination?
Common side effects can include soreness at the injection site, fatigue, headache, muscle aches, chills, or fever. These effects are generally temporary.
