Can you pass an infection through breast milk?

Can You Pass an Infection Through Breast Milk?
Breastfeeding is widely recognized for its numerous health benefits, providing infants with essential nutrients and antibodies that bolster their immune systems. However, the question of whether infections can be transmitted through breast milk is a critical concern for new mothers and healthcare providers alike.
Transmission of Infectious Diseases
Research indicates that certain infectious diseases can indeed be transmitted through breast milk. Notably, viruses such as Cytomegalovirus (CMV), HIV, and Human T-lymphotropic virus type I (HTLV-I) are known to pose risks in this regard. These viruses can lead to significant health issues for infants if transmitted during breastfeeding.
In contrast, other pathogens, such as Listeria, have not been shown to be transmitted through breast milk, suggesting that not all infections pose the same risk. This distinction is crucial for mothers who may be concerned about their health status and its implications for breastfeeding.
Bacterial Infections and Breast Milk
Bacterial infections can also be a concern. For instance, conditions like mastitis, which is an infection of the breast tissue, can lead to the presence of bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus in breast milk. While the risk of transmitting these bacteria to the infant exists, it is generally considered low, especially if the mother is treated effectively for the infection.
Guidelines for Breastfeeding with Infections
Healthcare professionals often provide guidelines for breastfeeding when a mother is infected with certain diseases. For example, if a mother is HIV-positive, she may be advised against breastfeeding to prevent transmission to the infant. In cases of other infections, such as bacterial infections, the decision to breastfeed may depend on the severity of the infection and the mother’s treatment.
Protective Properties of Breast Milk
Despite the potential risks, it is essential to highlight that breast milk contains numerous protective properties that can help shield infants from various infections. The antibodies and other immune factors present in breast milk can significantly reduce the likelihood of infections in infants, making the benefits of breastfeeding often outweigh the risks associated with specific infections.
Conclusion
In summary, while certain infections can be transmitted through breast milk, the overall risk varies depending on the type of pathogen involved. Mothers should consult healthcare providers to assess their individual situations and make informed decisions about breastfeeding. The protective benefits of breast milk are substantial, but understanding the risks associated with specific infections is crucial for ensuring the health and safety of both mother and child.

What infections can be transmitted through breast milk?

The concern is about viral pathogens, known to be blood-borne pathogens, which have been identified in breast milk and include but are not limited to hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), cytomegalovirus (CMV), West Nile virus, human T-cell lymphotropic virus (HTLV), and HIV.

Can a baby be infected through breastfeeding?

There have been a few documented cases of babies acquiring HIV from mothers with undetectable viral loads. PROMISE, an international study of 1200 breastfeeding mothers, found two cases of HIV transmission from mother to infant during breastfeeding when the mothers had an undetectable viral load.

Can a baby get sick from a breast infection?

What to do if you get breast mastitis. Keep nursing. Your baby will not get sick from your milk.

Can a mother pass illness through breast milk?

Did you know that you cannot pass illnesses such as the cold, flu, fever, diarrhea, vomiting and even COVID through your breast milk?

Can things be passed through breast milk?

Since some infectious diseases can be passed on to the baby through human milk, you will certainly want to discuss your medical history with your doctor and your baby’s pediatrician. The good news is that, in most cases, breastfeeding can still be safe and beneficial for your baby.

Can you breastfeed from an infected breast?

Yes, you should continue to nurse your baby. You can’t pass a breast infection to your baby through breast milk. In fact, breast milk has antibacterial properties that help babies fight infections. Antibiotics that your provider prescribes for mastitis are usually safe for your baby.

Can a child get infected through breastfeeding?

There have been a few documented cases of babies acquiring HIV from mothers with undetectable viral loads. PROMISE, an international study of 1200 breastfeeding mothers, found two cases of HIV transmission from mother to infant during breastfeeding when the mothers had an undetectable viral load.

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.

What STDs can be passed through breast milk?

If you have HIV, do not breastfeed. You can pass the virus to your baby. In countries like the United States where clean water is available, using a breastmilk substitute like formula is recommended. If you have chlamydia, gonorrhea, or HPV, you can breastfeed your baby.

Do bacteria pass through breast milk?

In an article titled “Breastmilk Feeding Practices Are Associated with the Co-Occurrence of Bacteria in Mothers’ Milk and the Infant Gut: The Child Cohort Study”* researchers found that beneficial bacteria are shared through breastmilk and that feeding directly from the breast is the best way to support this process.