In a message dated 1/8/2006 7:36:00 PM Pacific Standard Time, 
[log in to unmask] writes:
Nanc, my info comes from a presentation given by the director of 
Glasgow Womens Reproductive Health service, consultant obstetrician  
Dr  Mary Hepburn, whose clientele includes many drug using women. The 
work in their unit encourages breastfeeding, because (says Dr Mary) 
withdrawal sypmtoms are indeed lessened (and I was careful not to say 
'prevented' in my post), as well as (of course) giving a boost to 
mothering skills and supporting the mother-baby relationship.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
I agree with Dr. Hepburn's approach, and it may be her clinical impression, 
but there is no research to suggest that there is enough methadone or any other 
drug in breastmilk to clinically affect the infant.  I would bet that the ACT 
of breastfeeding and maternal-child closeness lessens the withdrawal 
symptoms, not the drug in the breastmilk.

Nancy E. Wight MD, IBCLC, FABM, FAAP
Neonatologist
Medical Director, Lactation Services
Sharp Mary Birch Hospital for Women
San Diego, CA USA
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