Breastfeeding & Vaccines
Alan Hawes BSN, RN, CCRN
Myths about Vaccines & Breastfeeding
Vaccines force you to stop breastfeeding
False. Most vaccines are safe during breastfeeding; you don’t need to stop nursing.
Fact: Most vaccines are safe during breastfeeding
Breastmilk is unsafe after vaccination
False. Breastmilk remains safe and still provides immunity protection after routine maternal vaccines.
Fact: Major health organizations do not recommend stopping breastfeeding after receiving routine vaccinations.
All vaccines cause severe reactions
False. Severe reactions are rare; most side effects are mild and short-lived.
Fact: Serious reactions are rare, and your health care provider can help guide personal medical decisions.
What to Know
Most vaccines are safe and compatible with breastfeeding
Typical and common vaccines are recommended during the postpartum period
Healthcare providers can discuss vaccination information and options for you and your family
Different vaccines are suited for different things. Learn more from our Vaccine Information Table.
The Importance of Vaccinations
Parent & Infant Health
When a breastfeeding parent gets vaccinated, antibodies may pass through breast milk, offering additional immune support for infants.
Vaccine Safety
Vaccination helps protect both you and your baby from disease. Most vaccines are safe for breastfeeding parents and do not affect breast milk or infant safety.
Community Immunity
Vaccination helps reduce the spread of preventable diseases, protecting newborns, immunocompromised individuals, and your community, not just yourself.