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Can I give breast milk if I have cold?

Can I Give Breast Milk If I Have a Cold?
When a breastfeeding parent catches a cold, concerns often arise about the safety and implications of continuing to breastfeed. The good news is that it is generally safe to breastfeed while experiencing a common cold. In fact, continuing to breastfeed can be beneficial for both the parent and the baby.
Safety of Breastfeeding While Sick
Health experts agree that breastfeeding during a cold is not only safe but also advantageous. Breast milk contains antibodies and other immunological factors that can help protect the baby from illness. When a parent is sick, their body produces specific antibodies in response to the infection, which are then passed through the breast milk to the baby. This transfer of antibodies can bolster the baby’s immune system, potentially helping them fend off similar illnesses.
Moreover, maintaining breastfeeding during a cold can help sustain the parent’s milk supply. Interrupting breastfeeding can lead to a decrease in milk production, which may be difficult to recover from.
Hygiene Precautions
While breastfeeding is safe, it is essential to practice good hygiene to minimize the risk of transmitting the virus to the baby. Simple measures such as frequent handwashing, using tissues when sneezing or coughing, and wearing a mask can help reduce the likelihood of spreading germs.
Consulting Healthcare Providers
If there are any concerns about specific symptoms or medications being taken, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider. Some cold medications may not be safe for breastfeeding, so understanding which ones are appropriate is crucial.
In summary, breastfeeding while having a cold is not only safe but can also provide protective benefits for the baby. By taking proper hygiene precautions, parents can continue to nourish their infants while also supporting their own recovery.

Should I stay away from my baby if I have a cold?

The best defense against the common cold is commonsense precautions and frequent hand-washing. Keep your baby away from anyone who’s sick. If you have a newborn, don’t allow visits from anyone who’s sick.

Can you donate breastmilk if you have a cold?

PLEASE DO NOT DONATE IF:
You or any member of your household becomes ill. Not including an uncomplicated cold, seasonal runny nose, or allergies in which the sick person’s temperature is no higher than 100°F orally. The sick person must not be in the same room with you while you pump.

Will breast milk help a cold?

Often, babies will want to feed constantly while they have a cold. Their bodies know that they need the valuable milk that you are producing for an antibody hit to help them recover. Your breastmilk can help to soothe a sore and irritated throat, and frequent cuddles and contact can help with aches and pains.

How can I 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.

What happens if I donate with a cold?

If you have a cold or the flu, you can donate blood, as normal, 7 days after you’ve recovered from your symptoms. If you recently had the flu vaccination and are feeling well, you can still donate blood. Because it’s not a ‘live’ vaccine, flu vaccination does not affect blood donation.

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.

How cold is too cold for breast milk?

As long as the temperature of the freezer is 0°F or below, the type of freezer does not matter. The temperature of kitchen freezers is typically 0° F. Deep freezers and chest freezers may be colder than 0°F. Breast milk can be stored at 0° F or colder for up to 12 months, although using it within 6 months is best.

Can I pass my cold to my breastfed baby?

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.

What disqualifies you from donating breast milk?

You may be disqualified from donating breast milk if you: Have or are being treated for HIV, HTLV (human T-cell leukemia virus), hepatitis B or C, or syphilis. Have a sexual partner who is at risk for HIV, HTLV, hepatitis B or C, or syphilis. Have used recreational drugs within the last year.

Can a baby catch a cold from its mother?

Someone with a cold who touches your baby’s hand can spread the cold virus to your baby, who can become infected after touching his or her eyes, nose or mouth. Contaminated surfaces. Some viruses live on surfaces for two hours or longer. Your baby may catch a virus by touching a contaminated surface, such as a toy.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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