Abortion and Breastfeeding: Can You Nurse After a Procedure?

If you’re a breastfeeding parent in Austin, Texas, and are considering a medical abortion, one of your first questions might be: Can I still breastfeed?

Here at the Women’s Reproductive Clinic of New Mexico, we work with many postpartum patients who need clear, evidence-based answers—especially when navigating abortion while breastfeeding.

Abortion and Breastfeeding: Expert Care Led by Dr. Theard

You’re in the best hands. Our medical director, Dr. Theard, is a board-certified OB-GYN with over 40 years of experience in high-risk pregnancies and abortion care. As a former Chief of Obstetrics, he’s provided expert guidance to thousands of patients across the Southwest. He brings a compassionate, patient-centered approach to every appointment and is especially thoughtful when working with new or breastfeeding parents.

Can You Breastfeed After Taking the Abortion Pill?

Yes, but with some timing considerations. The abortion pill process involves two medications: Mifepristone and Misoprostol. Research shows that mifepristone is minimally excreted into breast milk, and misoprostol is cleared from the body quickly.

Dr. Theard recommends pausing breastfeeding for 5–6 hours after taking misoprostol as an extra precaution, although it may not be strictly necessary. This short pause can reduce any risk of the medication passing to your baby, even in extremely low concentrations.

How Soon Can You Resume Breastfeeding?

Most patients can resume nursing the same day. If you’re taking the abortion pill while breastfeeding, the most essential step is timing. Take the second medication (misoprostol) right after a feeding, and resume once the 5–6 hour window passes.

Your counselor will help you plan this part of your schedule during your appointment at WRC. If you’re pumping, store extra milk beforehand to stay ahead.

Does Abortion Affect Milk Supply or Hormones?

It’s possible for any significant hormonal shift—pregnancy or abortion included—to cause a temporary dip in supply. Most often, this corrects itself quickly. You can support your body with hydration, skin-to-skin time, and consistent nursing or pumping.

Dr. Theard reminds patients that abortion does not harm your ability to breastfeed long-term.

Why Breastfeeding Texans Choose WRC

At WRC, many Texans can’t get the care they need in-state. We’re proud to be a trip away from Austin and ready to support you with discreet, compassionate care. Whether it’s your first abortion or you’re navigating postpartum realities, our team is here to answer every question.

We believe that breastfeeding parents deserve full control over their reproductive choices. No shame. No stigma.

Abortion and Breastfeeding: Want to Learn More?

Learn more about our abortion pill services or read our guide on Medical Abortion: What to Expect.

Schedule your visit here or reach out with any questions about abortion while breastfeeding.

Want to hear what others have experienced? Read our Google reviews and see why so many Austin families trust WRC.