# Can I breastfeed if I am taking medication for opioid use disorder? Canonical page: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/breastfeeding-opioid-use-disorder-medication-pregnancy Language: en Category: pregnancy Publisher: ClinicsJo Published: 2026-09-13T17:52:51.630Z Content updated: 2026-09-13T17:52:51.630Z Translation (ar): https://clinicsjo.com/ar/faq/breastfeeding-opioid-use-disorder-medication-pregnancy Yes, in most cases, mothers who take medications such as methadone or buprenorphine for opioid use disorder (OUD) during pregnancy can breastfeed their infants after delivery. Breastfeeding is generally encouraged for these women, as these medications have not been shown to cause birth defects and can help alleviate symptoms of neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) in infants [\[3\]](). However, it is essential to consult your healthcare provider before beginning to breastfeed to evaluate your individual situation and ensure the safety of the medication you are taking [\[1\]](). ## The Importance of Consulting Your Doctor Before Breastfeeding Before deciding to breastfeed while taking medications for opioid use disorder, you should always speak with your healthcare provider. Your doctor will assess the specific medication you are taking, its dosage, and any other health factors that might affect the safety of breastfeeding for you and your baby [\[1\]](). There are some situations where breastfeeding may not be recommended, such as if you are using medications that are unsafe while breastfeeding, using illicit drugs, or have human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) [\[3\]](). ## Benefits of Breastfeeding for Infants Exposed to Opioids Breastfeeding is particularly beneficial for infants who were exposed to opioids in utero. Breastfeeding, along with skin-to-skin contact and swaddling, can help soothe the symptoms of neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) that an infant may experience after birth [\[3\]](). These symptoms include tremors, poor feeding or sucking, excessive crying, fever, diarrhea, vomiting, and sleep problems [\[2\]](). In some cases, the infant may require additional medication to help manage these symptoms, which are gradually tapered over time [\[3\]](). ## Common Medications for Opioid Use Disorder During Pregnancy During pregnancy, buprenorphine or methadone are primarily prescribed to treat opioid use disorder. These medications help reduce opioid cravings and prevent withdrawal symptoms [\[1\]](). These medications have not been shown to cause birth defects and are considered a key part of a comprehensive treatment plan that also includes counseling and behavioral therapies [\[3\]](). It is very important not to stop taking these medications abruptly without medical supervision, as doing so could cause serious health problems for you and your baby [\[1\]](). ## Ongoing Care After Birth After delivery, your healthcare team will continue to monitor both your and your baby's health. Your baby may need to stay in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) if their NAS symptoms are severe [\[3\]](). It is essential to attend all follow-up appointments and adhere to the prescribed treatment plan to ensure the best outcomes for you and your baby [\[1\]](). For more information regarding the risks and treatments related to chronic opioid use during pregnancy, you can visit [Chronic Opioid Use During Pregnancy: Risks and Treatment (Arabic)](). ## Medical references - [Pregnancy and Opioids]() - [About Opioid Use During Pregnancy]() - [Opioid Use Disorder and Pregnancy]() General health education; not a substitute for individualized clinical assessment. Citation URL: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/breastfeeding-opioid-use-disorder-medication-pregnancy#answer