Does breastfeeding while sick affect the baby?

Breastfeeding While Sick: Implications for Your Baby
Breastfeeding is a vital aspect of infant nutrition and bonding, but many mothers worry about the potential effects of breastfeeding while they are ill. The good news is that, in most cases, continuing to breastfeed during sickness is not only safe but can also be beneficial for the baby.
The Protective Benefits of Breast Milk
When a mother is sick, her body produces antibodies in response to the infection. These antibodies are transferred to the baby through breast milk, providing a protective shield against the illness the mother is fighting. According to experts, this means that breastfeeding while sick can actually help bolster the infant’s immune system. Dr. Lauren Macaluso, a physician specializing in breastfeeding, emphasizes that the immune factors present in breast milk can help protect the infant from various infections, including those caused by stomach viruses.
Breast milk is uniquely designed to meet the nutritional needs of infants, containing not only antibodies but also other immunological factors that can help prevent illnesses such as diarrhea and pneumonia. This is particularly important during cold and flu season, as breastfed babies are less likely to experience severe symptoms or complications from common infections.
Safety Considerations
While breastfeeding is generally safe during mild illnesses like colds or the flu, mothers should take precautions to minimize the risk of transmitting germs to their babies. This includes practicing good hygiene, such as washing hands frequently, wearing a mask if necessary, and disinfecting surfaces. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also advises that breastfeeding can provide comfort and hydration for a sick baby, reinforcing the idea that the benefits of breastfeeding often outweigh the risks.
In cases of more severe illnesses, such as COVID-19, research has shown that the virus has not been detected in breast milk, further supporting the safety of breastfeeding during such times. However, if a mother feels too unwell to breastfeed or if her illness is severe, consulting with a lactation support provider can help manage milk supply and ensure the baby continues to receive the benefits of breast milk.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding while sick is typically safe and can be advantageous for both mother and baby. The antibodies and immune factors in breast milk provide essential protection against illnesses, helping to keep infants healthy even when their mothers are not. By taking appropriate precautions, mothers can continue to nurture their babies through breastfeeding, ensuring they receive the best possible start in life, even during times of illness.

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

Staying away until you are fully recovered is a key part of keeping babies safe from infection.

Will my baby get sick if I’m sick?

Your baby is actually the person least likely to fall ill with your tummy upset or cold, as she has already been in close contact with you and is getting a daily dose of those protective antibodies from your milk,” says Sarah Beeson. However, being sick and continuing to breastfeed can be extremely tiring.

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 you not breastfeed?

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.

Can a baby get a cold from its mother?

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.

Are breastfed babies less likely to get RSV?

Infants receiving (exclusive or partial) maternal milk had lower risk of RSV bronchiolitis. Partial breastfeeding reduces risk of hospitalisation.

Do breastfed babies recover from colds faster?

On the contrary, your milk is a powerful medicine that can help your little one recover more quickly! When your baby is sick, your milk may actually change its composition in response to the baby’s saliva, providing even more of the beneficial compounds babies need to get well.

Will my baby get sick if I breastfeed while sick?

If you have the flu, you can keep breastfeeding your baby, even if you take antiviral medicines for flu-like symptoms. Breast milk is custom-made for babies, providing antibodies that babies need to fight infection. So, continuing to breastfeed can protect your baby from the infection that your body is fighting.

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.

What to do if a breastfeeding mom gets cold?

Summary

1. You can continue to breastfeed when you have a cough, cold, the flu or COVID-19.
2. You can take paracetamol and ibuprofen whilst breastfeeding, at the normal adult doses.
3. Oral decongestants are not recommended when you are breastfeeding as they can reduce your milk supply with just one or two doses.