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The Benefits of Breastfeeding While Sick
Breastfeeding while sick can be a complex yet beneficial choice for both mother and baby. When a mother is ill, her body produces antibodies that are passed through breast milk, providing essential protection to her infant. This unique aspect of breastfeeding is particularly crucial during times when the baby may also be unwell.
Antibodies and Immune Support
Breast milk is not just a source of nutrition; it is a powerful ally in the fight against illness. When a mother contracts an infection, her immune system responds by creating specific antibodies tailored to combat that particular illness. These antibodies are then transferred to the baby through breast milk, offering a form of passive immunity that can help the infant fend off similar infections. This is especially important for babies, whose immune systems are still developing and may not be able to fight off infections as effectively as adults.
Hydration and Comfort
In addition to providing immune support, breastfeeding can also help keep a sick baby hydrated. When babies are unwell, they may not feel like eating solid foods or drinking from a bottle, but they can often still nurse. Breast milk is easily digestible and can provide both hydration and comfort during a time of distress. The act of breastfeeding can soothe a fussy baby, offering emotional reassurance that is just as vital as physical nourishment.
Safety Considerations
For mothers concerned about transmitting their illness to their baby, it’s important to note that most common illnesses, such as colds and flu, do not pose a significant risk when breastfeeding. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasizes that the benefits of breastfeeding during maternal illness generally outweigh the risks. However, mothers should take precautions to minimize germ transmission, such as practicing good hygiene by washing hands frequently and wearing a mask if necessary.
Changing Dynamics of Feeding
While breastfeeding during illness is encouraged, mothers may notice changes in their baby’s feeding patterns. For instance, a baby with a cold might prefer to nurse more frequently but for shorter durations, as nasal congestion can make prolonged feeding uncomfortable. Mothers should be attentive to their baby’s cues and adjust their feeding approach accordingly.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding while sick is not only safe but can also be incredibly beneficial for a baby. The antibodies present in breast milk provide crucial immune support, while the act of nursing offers hydration and comfort. Mothers should feel empowered to continue breastfeeding during illness, taking simple precautions to protect their little ones from germs. Ultimately, the bond formed through breastfeeding during these challenging times can be a source of strength for both mother and child.
Does milk supply drop when 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.
What is the 120 pumping rule?
The 120-minute rule is a helpful guideline for exclusive pumpers. It suggests spending at least 120 minutes (or 2 hours) each day pumping. How you divide that time depends on your baby’s age. For example, with a newborn, you might spread it across eight 15-minute sessions throughout the day.
Will breastfeeding help my sick baby?
Helping Your Baby Nurse
Breast milk is easily digested, so chances are your little one will still get many of the nutrients, even if he or she vomits soon after eating. Breastfeeding is a comforting and soothing behavior for babies, so it’s all the more important when they’re sick.
Can breastfeeding mother fever affect baby?
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.
Does breast milk break up mucus?
Try breast milk drops
Similarly to saline drops, breast milk can help break up mucus, and its antiviral properties may help treat the cold.
Does breastfeeding help a baby get over a cold faster?
Your Breastmilk is Powerful!
How clever is that! If you’re exposed to a bacterial or viral infection, your body makes antibodies to combat it; these are then transferred to your baby through your milk. The levels of immunity-boosting cells, called leukocytes, in your milk also rise rapidly whenever your baby is unwell.
Does breastmilk lose nutrients when pumped?
According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), freshly expressed breast milk can be safely kept at room temperature (77°F or colder) for up to 4 hours. Generally, when freshly pumped, breast milk is at its peak regarding nutrients.
Can breast milk unblock a baby’s nose?
Some people feel that putting breast milk in a baby’s nose works just as well as saline drops to soften mucus. Carefully put a little milk right into your baby’s nose while feeding. When you sit them up after eating, the mucus will likely slide right out.
What is the 5 5 5 rule for breast milk?
Something I recommend to moms is the 5-5-5 rule. Try and use milk within five hours at room temperature, five days in the fridge, and by five months in the freezer.
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.