Can my upset stomach affect my breastfed baby?

Understanding the Connection Between Your Upset Stomach and Breastfeeding
As a breastfeeding mother, concerns about how your health may impact your baby are natural and valid. An upset stomach can arise from various causes, including dietary choices, stress, or infections. But the pressing question remains: Can your upset stomach affect your breastfed baby?
The Impact of Maternal Health on Breastfeeding
Breast milk is widely regarded as the gold standard for infant nutrition, providing essential nutrients and antibodies that bolster a baby’s immune system. However, the health of the breastfeeding mother can influence the composition of her milk. Research indicates that maternal illnesses, including gastrointestinal distress, can alter the quality and quantity of breast milk, although the effects vary depending on the underlying cause of the upset stomach.
Causes of Upset Stomach
1. Dietary Issues: Certain foods can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort. Spicy foods, dairy products, or allergens may not only upset your stomach but could also affect your breast milk. If your baby shows signs of discomfort, it may be worth examining your diet.
2. Infections: Viral or bacterial infections can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms. If a mother is ill, her body may produce antibodies that are passed through breast milk, potentially offering some protection to the baby. However, the mother’s hydration and energy levels are crucial, as severe illnesses can lead to decreased milk supply.
3. Stress and Anxiety: Emotional factors can also manifest physically, leading to an upset stomach. Stress hormones can affect milk production, and while they may not directly harm the baby, a stressed mother may struggle with breastfeeding effectively.
Symptoms to Watch For
If you are experiencing an upset stomach, it’s essential to monitor both your symptoms and your baby’s reactions. Here are some signs to consider:
– Baby’s Fussiness: If your baby seems more irritable than usual, it could be a sign that something in your diet or overall health is affecting them.
– Changes in Feeding Patterns: A decrease in your milk supply or changes in your baby’s feeding habits can signal that your upset stomach is impacting breastfeeding.
– Digestive Distress in Baby: If your baby experiences increased gas, diarrhea, or other digestive issues, it’s worth considering any recent dietary changes you’ve made.
When to Seek Medical Advice
It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional if:
– Your upset stomach persists or worsens.
– You notice significant changes in your baby’s behavior or health.
– You are concerned about your milk supply or your ability to breastfeed effectively.
Conclusion: Navigating Your Health While Breastfeeding
In summary, while an upset stomach can potentially affect your breastfed baby, it largely depends on the cause and severity of the symptoms. Maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and managing stress are essential strategies for both your health and your baby’s well-being. Always feel empowered to seek guidance from medical professionals to ensure both you and your baby are thriving during this crucial time.

How do I know if my breastmilk is upsetting my baby’s stomach?

If symptoms occur such as fussiness, irritability, crying, gas, increased spitting up and/or drawing their legs up due to tummy pain, write down everything you ate that day. This lets you carefully look at your diet instead of getting rid of foods that may not be the cause of your baby’s distress.

Will my upset stomach affect my baby?

Stomach bugs are common in pregnancy. It is very unlikely that your baby will be harmed from a bug lasting less than 48 hours.

What to take for an upset stomach while breastfeeding?

Heartburn / Indigestion

• Mylanta.
• TUMS.
• Pepcid.
• Maalox.
• Gavison.
• Pepto Bismol.

Should I stop breastfeeding if I have an upset stomach?

Wash your hands frequently to prevent the spread of the illness as much as possible. If you feel able you should continue to breastfeed your baby in order to pass on antibodies and protect the baby from developing symptoms (less common in exclusively breastfed babies).

Can being upset affect breast milk?

1. Feeling stressed or anxious. Stress is the No. 1 killer of breastmilk supply, especially in the first few weeks after delivery. Between lack of sleep and adjusting to the baby’s schedule, rising levels of certain hormones such as cortisol can dramatically reduce your milk supply.

Can breast milk irritate a baby’s stomach?

“There’s just not enough food proteins in breast milk to cause such a reaction. But there is enough to cause gut issues.” If your child is allergic to cow’s milk, for them to experience symptoms of an allergic reaction, they would have to drink cow’s milk on their own.

Does mother’s upset stomach affect breast milk?

Some breastfeeding parents notice drops in their milk supply after illnesses like food poisoning. That’s why it’s important that you stay well hydrated. If you do notice a drop in your milk supply, it should be temporary. Nursing more frequently and replenishing your fluids should resolve things.

How do you know if breast milk is not agreeing with a baby?

MSPI symptoms

​fussiness or excess crying before, during and after a feeding	​stools may be infrequent, watery, have mucous, or be bloody
​reflux	​spitting up
​nasal congestion	​skin rash, eczema, hives, dry skin
​weight loss	​repeated vomiting
​sudden waking with discomfort	​

Will my breastfed baby get sick if I’m sick?

If you have a cold or flu, fever, diarrhoea 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.

Will my breastfed baby catch my stomach bug?

Although you are ill, your milk will provide your baby with protection against the virus. There is no specific treatment for viral gastroenteritis except rest and drinking plenty of fluids.