I cannot believe I am agreeing with an obstetrician.  Abnormally high
levels of certain toxins in the blood does *not* mean that the amount in
the milk will be significant to affect a baby.  Remember, that the
concentration in the milk will be about the concentration in the blood.
Considering the baby will be absorbing only a part of these, and,
considering that if the baby has normal renal function, he should be
able to handle any excess, I do not think there should be any concern.

We have had some experience with this, with a mother having gone into
renal failure postpartum and on dialysis for several weeks.  She nursed
her twins, who were admitted to the hospital with her so that she could
nurse.  The babies were fine.

One thing that does not get taken into account is statements from the
mother such as "What kept me going was being able to have my babies with
me and having them at the breast.  I believe they helped me to survive".
Well, maybe, maybe not.  But the mind can do amazing things.  Of course
the mother should breastfeed.

Jack Newman, MD, FRCPC