Breast-feeding mothers can take most prescription drugs without risking their babies' health, though they should try to avoid certain painkillers, psychiatric drugs and herbal treatments, the American Academy of Pediatrics said in a report.

In its first statement on the question in 12 years, the influential pediatricians group said many women are needlessly advised to either stop breast-feeding or forgo medicines, potentially depriving both mother and infant of important health benefits. Similarly, most vaccines are safe for...