Can I breastfeed if I am unwell?

Can I Breastfeed If I Am Unwell?
Breastfeeding is a natural and beneficial process for both mother and baby, but many new mothers find themselves questioning whether they can continue to breastfeed when they are feeling unwell. The good news is that, in most cases, breastfeeding while sick is not only safe but can also be advantageous for your baby.
Understanding the Benefits
When a mother is ill, her body produces antibodies to fight off the infection. These antibodies are passed through breast milk to the baby, providing them with a layer of protection against the illness. This transfer of immunity is particularly crucial in the early months of a baby’s life, as their immune systems are still developing. According to health experts, continuing to breastfeed during illness can help bolster the baby’s defenses and may even reduce the severity of the illness if the baby is exposed to the same pathogens.
When to Continue Breastfeeding
Most common illnesses, such as colds or mild infections, do not pose a risk to the breastfeeding relationship. Mothers are encouraged to continue breastfeeding as long as they feel well enough to do so. The act of breastfeeding can also be comforting for both mother and child, providing emotional support during times of illness.
When to Consider Pausing
However, there are certain situations where a mother might need to reconsider breastfeeding. If a mother is experiencing severe illness, such as a high fever, or if she is taking medications that could be harmful to the baby, it may be advisable to consult a healthcare provider. In such cases, expressing milk and feeding it to the baby can be an alternative, ensuring that the baby still receives the benefits of breast milk without direct breastfeeding.
Practical Tips for Breastfeeding While Sick
1. Stay Hydrated: Illness can lead to dehydration, so it’s essential for mothers to drink plenty of fluids to maintain milk supply.

2. Rest as Much as Possible: Prioritizing rest can help speed up recovery, allowing mothers to return to their usual breastfeeding routine sooner.
3. Monitor Baby’s Health: Keep an eye on the baby’s health and behavior. If the baby shows signs of illness, consult a pediatrician.
4. Seek Medical Advice: If unsure about medications or the severity of the illness, reaching out to a healthcare professional can provide clarity and reassurance.
In conclusion, breastfeeding while unwell is generally safe and can be beneficial for both mother and baby. The key is to listen to your body, prioritize your health, and seek guidance when necessary. By doing so, mothers can continue to provide their babies with the nourishment and comfort that breastfeeding offers, even during times of illness.

How to fight a cold while breastfeeding?

Making sure you take in plenty of fluids and eat nourishing foods. Use saline sprays and humidifiers for nasal congestion and throat lozenges for sore throat and cough. If you are sick enough to need antiviral medications, Tamiflu is preferred for breastfeeding mothers over other antiviral medications.

Does your milk supply go down when you are sick?

Getting sick. Just catching a virus or bug such as the flu, a cold, or a stomach virus won’t decrease your milk supply. However, related symptoms such as fatigue, diarrhea, vomiting, or decreased appetite definitely can.

When should a mother avoid breastfeeding?

Women who actively use drugs or do not control their alcohol intake, or who have a history of these situations, also may be advised not to breastfeed. Infants who have galactosemia—a rare metabolic disorder in which the body cannot digest the sugar galactose—should not be breastfed.

Will my baby get sick if I’m sick?

While you’re sick, though, protect your baby from as many germs as possible. Babies have a higher risk of catching the flu and having health problems from it. So: Wash your hands well and often.

What illnesses should you not breastfeed?

When Should I Not Breastfeed My Baby?

• If the mother has been infected with HIV or has AIDS.
• Many medications taken by the mother may pass onto the baby via breast milk.
• Mothers with cancer who are taking cancer chemotherapy medications also cannot breastfeed their babies.

Can I breastfeed if I feel feverish?

If you have a cold or flu, fever, diarrhea and vomiting, or mastitis, keep breastfeeding as normal. Your baby won’t catch the illness through your breast milk – in fact, it will contain antibodies to reduce her risk of getting the same bug. “Not only is it safe, breastfeeding while sick is a good idea.

Do soft breasts mean low milk supply?

Your breasts feel softer
This happens as your milk supply adjusts to your baby’s needs. The initial breast fullness reduces in the first few weeks. At around 6 weeks, breast fullness is completely gone and your breasts may feel soft. This is completely normal and has no effect on your milk supply.

Can I breastfeed if I feel unwell?

Can I safely breastfeed my child if I’m feeling sick? With most common illnesses like a cold or flu, it is safe to continue breastfeeding your baby as long as you take proper hygiene precautions like handwashing.

Can illness be passed through breast milk?

Very few illnesses are transmitted via breast milk.

Is it OK to breastfeed your baby when you’re sick?

Not only is it safe but breastfeeding during illness is also a good idea. The CDC states, “A mother’s breast milk contains antibodies and other immunological factors that can help protect her infant from illness and is the recommended source of nutrition for the infant, even while the mother is ill.