If you're breastfeeding and have consumed alcohol, it's important to know when it's safe to nurse your baby again. Alcohol enters breast milk at similar levels as your blood alcohol concentration (BAC), and it typically takes 2 to 3 hours to clear one standard drink from your system. This tool estimates how long it takes based on your weight, number of drinks, and time already passed.
Health Canada recommends minimizing alcohol while breastfeeding, but occasional light drinking is generally considered safe if enough time is allowed for your body to metabolize it. This calculator uses conservative estimates to help you make informed decisions. One standard drink equals 5 oz wine, 1.5 oz spirits, or 12 oz beer. Always use caution, and when in doubt, pump and discard, or wait longer before breastfeeding.
This resource is designed to support new mothers in Canada seeking reliable information on breastfeeding after drinking. Always speak with a healthcare provider for personal advice, especially if drinking regularly while nursing. Remember that "pump and dump" doesn't speed up alcohol clearance - only time allows your body to metabolize alcohol completely.