A recently published report in the American Academy of Pediatrics explains that most medications are ‘safe’ enough for breastfeeding mothers.

According to the report, many women are “inappropriately” counseled to stop taking certain medications or to stop breastfeeding altogether. A majority of medications and immunizations are actually safe for mothers or babies. The report therefore urges doctors to consider specific risks and benefits, in addition to the health and age of the baby, when making recommendations.

It is estimated that of the 80 percent of women who attempt to breastfeed, about 10 percent stop because of the need to take medication.

The report states that certain medications like aspirin or short-acting pain relievers, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, are acceptable and outlines a small list of unsafe medications. To get a more comprehensive list, medical providers and nursing mothers should refer to LactMed, a peer-reviewed and fully referenced database of drugs to which breastfeeding mothers may be exposed, when making personalized decisions.