How can I fight a cold while breastfeeding?

Fighting a Cold While Breastfeeding: A Comprehensive Guide
Breastfeeding while battling a cold can be challenging, but it’s important to know that you can manage your symptoms effectively without compromising your baby’s health. Here’s how to navigate this situation with care and confidence.
Continue Breastfeeding
First and foremost, it’s crucial to understand that breastfeeding during a cold is not only safe but also beneficial for your baby. Viruses like the common cold do not pass into breast milk, meaning your little one is protected from the illness you’re experiencing. In fact, breast milk contains antibodies that can help your baby fight infections, making it even more important to maintain breastfeeding during your illness.
Hygiene Matters
While breastfeeding, maintaining proper hygiene is essential. Simple practices like frequent handwashing can significantly reduce the risk of transmitting germs to your baby. If you’re coughing or sneezing, consider wearing a mask during feedings to further minimize any potential exposure.
Stay Hydrated and Rested
Fighting a cold requires energy, so prioritize hydration and rest. Drink plenty of fluids—water, herbal teas, and broths can help keep you hydrated and soothe your throat. Rest as much as possible; breastfeeding can be a good excuse to take a break and relax while bonding with your baby.
Safe Medications
If your symptoms are severe, you might be considering over-the-counter (OTC) medications. Fortunately, many common cold remedies are safe for breastfeeding mothers. Acetaminophen, for instance, is compatible with breastfeeding, as only small amounts enter breast milk. However, it’s wise to consult with a healthcare provider or pharmacist about which medications are appropriate for your specific symptoms.
Home Remedies
In addition to medications, consider natural remedies to alleviate your symptoms. Steam inhalation can help relieve nasal congestion, while honey (for those over one year old) can soothe a sore throat. Warm saltwater gargles can also provide relief for throat discomfort.
Monitor Your Health
Keep an eye on your symptoms. If you experience a high fever, severe fatigue, or if your symptoms worsen, it’s important to seek medical advice. Your healthcare provider can offer guidance tailored to your situation, ensuring both your health and your baby’s well-being are prioritized.
In summary, while a cold can be an unwelcome challenge for breastfeeding mothers, it’s manageable with the right approach. Continue breastfeeding, maintain good hygiene, stay hydrated, and use safe medications as needed. With these strategies, you can care for yourself and your baby effectively during this time.

How do you treat a cold in a breastfed baby?

Self care

1. Offer plenty of fluids. Liquids are important to avoid dehydration.
2. Suction your baby’s nose. Keep your baby’s nasal passages clear with a rubber-bulb syringe.
3. Try nasal saline drops. Your baby’s doctor may recommend saline nasal drops to moisten nasal passages and loosen thick nasal mucus.
4. Moisten the air.

Can a cold dry up breast milk?

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.

Is it okay to let baby sleep with a stuffy nose?

If they appear more comfortable on their tummy, it’s OK to let them sleep! Make sure their sleep space is clear [ ] of blankets, pillows, stuffed toys, and bumper pads. These items pose a risk of blocking the baby’s airway.

What medicine can I take for a cold while breastfeeding?

Most cold medicines are safe while breastfeeding, especially if you take them short term and only when you need them. Some of the medications that are safe include: Expectorants that contain guaifenesin (Mucinex®, Robitussin® and others). Cough suppressants that contain dextromethorphan (DayQuil®, Delsym® and others).

Will my baby get my cold if I am breastfeeding?

With most common illnesses like a cold or flu, it is safe to continue breastfeeding your baby as long as you take proper hygiene precautions like handwashing. Continuing to breastfeed will help you to maintain your milk supply and will provide your baby with protection against the illness you are experiencing.

Why is Zyrtec not recommended for breastfeeding?

However, caution is advised for cetirizine use while breastfeeding due to the theoretical risk of CNS depression based on limited human data and risk of decreased milk production.

How do you get rid of a cold fast 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.

Do breastfed babies fight colds faster?

The first milk that that comes out of breasts after giving birth–known as colostrum–is especially rich in antibodies. As you continue to nurse, your baby will take in more antibodies, which helps them resist illness and infection now and in the future.

Is emergen C safe for breastfeeding?

Yes, you can take Emergen-C while breastfeeding, but it’s important to not exceed the recommended dosage. Emergen-C is a supplement rich in vitamin C, often used for boosting immune health. However, while vitamin C is crucial for both you and your baby, consuming it in large amounts can cause digestive upset.

Does Mucinex decrease milk supply?

“It is best to avoid certain over-the-counter cough medications as they may decrease breast milk supply,” says Dr. Neela. “Just as they dry up your nasal congestion, they can also dry up your breast milk. Usually, antihistamines and nasal decongestants are the ingredients that have this effect on breastmilk.”