Can You Drink Raw Milk When Pregnant?
Written by Jordan Morley · Reviewed against NHS foods-to-avoid guidance · Last updated 28 October 2026
No — the NHS advises avoiding raw milk during pregnancy because unpasteurised products can contain harmful bacteria such as listeria and E. coli.
Why is raw milk a concern in pregnancy?
Raw Milk has not been pasteurised, so any bacteria present — including listeria, salmonella, campylobacter and E. coli — survive into the finished product. These infections are more serious during pregnancy, and listeria in particular can harm the baby. The NHS advises sticking to pasteurised versions while pregnant.
You can also check the calorie content of raw milk alongside its safety information. Also check medication safety during pregnancy if you're managing any conditions.
The exception
The pasteurised equivalent is completely safe. If only unpasteurised milk is available, the NHS says boiling it first makes it safe.
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Check Price →Raw Milk: the other answers on this site
| Question | Short answer (links to the full page) |
|---|---|
| While breastfeeding | Not recommended — food poisoning risk |
Common questions
Can I eat raw milk in the first trimester?
Yes — the advice to avoid raw milk applies throughout pregnancy.
Is a small amount of raw milk OK during pregnancy?
The NHS advises avoiding raw milk entirely during pregnancy rather than limiting it.
I accidentally ate raw milk while pregnant — what should I do?
The risk from a single serving is low. Watch for stomach upset or flu-like symptoms over the following days and weeks, and contact your midwife or GP if you feel unwell.
Is cooked raw milk safe in pregnancy?
Yes — boiling or thoroughly heating raw milk kills the bacteria of concern, making it safe.
Related answers
Primary source: NHS foods-to-avoid guidance.
General information only, not medical advice: see the medical disclaimer. Feeling unwell after eating something? Contact NHS 111 or your GP.