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Helping Your Breastfed Baby with a Cold
When your breastfed baby catches a cold, it can be a worrying time for any parent. However, there are effective ways to support your little one while ensuring they remain comfortable and cared for. Here’s how you can help your baby navigate through this common illness.
Continue Breastfeeding
One of the most beneficial actions you can take is to continue breastfeeding. Breast milk is packed with antibodies that can help your baby fight off infections, including the common cold. Even if you are feeling under the weather, it is safe to breastfeed. The viruses that cause colds do not pass into breast milk, meaning your baby is not at risk from your illness. In fact, your body is already producing specific antibodies in response to the virus, which are then transferred to your baby through your milk.
Maintain Hygiene Practices
While breastfeeding, it’s important to practice good hygiene to minimize any risk of spreading germs. This includes washing your hands frequently and considering wearing a mask during feedings to prevent coughing or sneezing directly onto your baby. Keeping a safe distance during non-feeding times can also help reduce the likelihood of transmission.
Comfort Measures for Your Baby
In addition to breastfeeding, there are several comfort measures you can implement to help your baby feel better. Ensure that your baby stays hydrated; breast milk is an excellent source of hydration. If your baby is old enough for solids, you can also offer them warm fluids, like diluted broth, to soothe their throat.
Create a Comfortable Environment
Make sure your baby is in a comfortable environment. Keeping the room at a comfortable temperature and using a humidifier can help ease congestion. Gentle suction with a bulb syringe can also help clear nasal passages if your baby is congested.
Monitor Symptoms
Keep an eye on your baby’s symptoms. If they seem unusually lethargic, have a high fever, or if their symptoms worsen, it’s important to consult a pediatrician. They can provide guidance tailored to your baby’s specific needs and health status.
Conclusion
Navigating a cold with a breastfed baby can be challenging, but by continuing to breastfeed, maintaining hygiene, and providing comfort, you can help your little one recover more quickly. Remember, your breast milk is a powerful ally in keeping your baby healthy, even when you’re feeling under the weather.
Can my baby catch my cold while 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.
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.
What is the best position to nurse a congested baby?
Feeding your baby at an upright angle allows the congestion to move downwards and out the nose, rather than being stuck in the nasal passages when lying down. The football position is good for angling your baby, or you can also nurse in a baby carrier. For night time feeds, you can prop yourself up on pillows.
Can a cold turn into RSV?
Most cases are mild, but for some children, an ordinary cold or flu can quickly turn into respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Severe cases may require emergency department treatment or hospitalization.
How long does a cold last in breastfed babies?
Antibiotics do not treat illnesses caused by a virus, and as the name implies, only treat bacterial infections. Colds typically last seven to 10 days. Avoid giving your baby over-the-counter cough and cold medicines (unless instructed by your pediatrician).
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 [5] of blankets, pillows, stuffed toys, and bumper pads. These items pose a risk of blocking the baby’s airway.
How do you treat a cold in a breastfed baby?
Self care
- Offer plenty of fluids. Liquids are important to avoid dehydration.
- Suction your baby’s nose. Keep your baby’s nasal passages clear with a rubber-bulb syringe.
- Try nasal saline drops. Your baby’s doctor may recommend saline nasal drops to moisten nasal passages and loosen thick nasal mucus.
- Moisten the air.
What happens if your mom has a cold while breastfeeding?
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.
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.
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.
