What should nursing mothers be informed about regarding medication?

Nursing mothers should be informed that most drugs cross into breast milk. This is an important consideration because any medication taken by a mother has the potential to affect the breastfeeding infant through the milk. While many medications are considered safe during breastfeeding, healthcare providers often emphasize the need to weigh the benefits and risks of medication use during this time.

Understanding that most drugs can enter breast milk helps foster awareness in nursing mothers about both the necessity of their medications and the potential effects on their child. Additionally, this knowledge guides mothers to consult healthcare professionals before taking any medication, whether it is prescription or over-the-counter, ensuring that decisions are made with the safety of the infant in mind.

The other choices misrepresent the relationship between medications and breastfeeding. While some medications are safe, it is incorrect to state that all are safe or that only over-the-counter medications pose risks. Likewise, the statement that no medications affect breast milk does not reflect the reality that many medications can alter the quality or quantity of breast milk.