At a glance
It is not known if agents used in tear gas can be found in breast milk. Mothers exposed to riot control agents are advised to remove their clothes and thoroughly wash their bodies before breastfeeding or expressing milk or pumping.
Background
Tear gas is a riot control agent that is used to disperse crowds and control riots. It may also be used for personal protection, for example in pepper spray. Several chemical compounds can be used in tear gas. These chemicals cause temporary irritation to the eyes, mouth, throat, lungs, and skin. The effects usually last 15 to 30 minutes after the person has left the area of exposure and cleaned off.
Highlights
After being exposed to tear gas, mothers are advised to thoroughly decontaminate before breastfeeding, expressing milk, or pumping. To protect themselves and their children, breastfeeding mothers who are exposed to tear gas should:
- Quickly remove clothing and place it in a plastic bag that can be sealed.
- Wash the body thoroughly with lots of soap and water.
- Rinse eyes with just water and dispose of contact lenses.
- Dispose of clothing.
- Seek medical care as quickly as possible.
For more information, see Chemical Agents: Facts About Personal Cleaning and Disposal of Contaminated Clothing.
It is not known if agents used in tear gas can be found in breast milk. Pumping and discarding breast milk is currently not thought to be necessary after exposure to riot control agents.