Jeffrey,
Smoking while bf is considered contraindicated by the AAP, nicotine and
cotinine are secreted into the milk along with goodness knows what else, moms
who smoke may suffer reduced milk supply.  Mom can minimize the dose to baby
by smoking after nursing, and never in baby's face.  Preferably not even in
the house.
        I have had some clients who smoked.  I discussed benefits of bf and
risks of smoking while bf, they chose to continue smoking a reduced number of
cigarettes, smoke after nursing, and smoke in only one room of the house away
from baby.  Both babies nursed well after we dealt with the presenting
problems.
        What is happening in this mom's heart and life that she should
suddenly take up smoking?  The email message makes it sound like she had not
smoked before.
Catherine Watson Genna, IBCLC  NYC  [log in to unmask]