How can I help my sick breastfed baby?

Understanding the Situation
When your breastfed baby falls ill, it can be a distressing experience for both of you. However, it’s important to know that breastfeeding can play a crucial role in your baby’s recovery. Breast milk is not just a source of nutrition; it also contains antibodies that are specifically tailored to help fight infections. This unique aspect of breast milk makes it an invaluable resource when your baby is sick.
The Benefits of Breastfeeding During Illness
Continuing to breastfeed your sick baby is highly recommended. According to experts, as long as your baby is able to take anything by mouth, breast milk should be their primary source of nourishment. This is because your body produces antibodies in response to your baby’s illness, which are then passed through your milk. These antibodies help bolster your baby’s immune system, providing them with the necessary tools to combat their illness effectively.
Moreover, breast milk adapts to your baby’s needs during sickness. Research indicates that the composition of breast milk changes in response to infections, enhancing its protective qualities. This means that your milk is not only nourishing but also specifically designed to help your baby recover.
Managing Your Own Illness
If you find yourself feeling unwell while breastfeeding, it’s generally safe to continue nursing. Common illnesses, such as colds or the flu, do not transmit through breast milk, so you can rest assured that breastfeeding will not harm your baby. In fact, breastfeeding can provide comfort to both you and your baby during this time. It allows you to bond and offers your baby a sense of security, which is especially important when they are feeling under the weather.
However, if you are experiencing severe symptoms or are concerned about your health, it may be wise to consult with a healthcare professional. They can provide guidance on how to manage your illness while ensuring your baby continues to receive the benefits of breastfeeding.
Practical Tips for Breastfeeding a Sick Baby
1. Stay Hydrated and Rested: Your health is crucial for maintaining milk supply. Drink plenty of fluids and try to rest as much as possible.

2. Monitor Your Baby’s Symptoms: Keep an eye on your baby’s condition. If they show signs of dehydration or if their symptoms worsen, seek medical advice.
3. Comfort and Cuddle: Use breastfeeding as an opportunity to comfort your baby. Skin-to-skin contact can be soothing for both of you.
4. Maintain Hygiene: If you are sick, practice good hygiene to minimize the risk of spreading germs. Wash your hands frequently and consider wearing a mask if you have a contagious illness.
5. Consult Healthcare Providers: If you have concerns about your baby’s health or your own, don’t hesitate to reach out to a pediatrician or lactation consultant for personalized advice.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding your sick baby is not only safe but also beneficial. The antibodies in your milk can help your baby fight off illness, while the act of nursing provides comfort and security. By taking care of your own health and following some practical tips, you can support your baby’s recovery while nurturing your bond during this challenging time.

How do you decongest while breastfeeding?

Nasal decongestant sprays or drops (e.g. Otrivine®, Sudafed®) act directly on your nasal passages to relieve congestion. Very little will be absorbed into your body and pass into your breastmilk, so you can use them when you are breastfeeding, as an alternative to decongestant tablets or powders.

How do you decongest a baby?

Humidify the air in the room where they sleep with a cool air humidifier. Keep babies in an upright position for longer after they eat to reduce spit-up. Run a steamy shower or bath. Raise the head of the bed ONLY for children over age 1 (babies should always sleep on a flat surface to prevent SIDS)

How to help a baby feed with a cold?

Use a humidifier. Nurse in a steamy bathroom with a hot shower running. Try nursing in a more upright position or in a baby carrier if possible. Offer the breast more often as nursing sessions will likely be shorter.

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.

Why is my breastfed baby congested?

Along with viruses, the body may also produce more mucus to help “trap and remove types of irritants,” in the nose, Playforth adds, such as allergens, pollutants, cigarette smoke, dry air or even a little bit of breast milk. Congestion in babies is most prevalent when they’re prone to reflux and spitting up.

What to do if you’re sick and have a baby?

How to look after your baby when you’re not feeling well

1. You can still breastfeed and bottle feed – but take extra care with cleanliness.
2. Relax the screen time rules a little.
3. Read them some stories, or put on an audio storybook.
4. Get out colouring sheets.
5. Video call grandparents or their friends.

Do babies drink less milk when they have a cold?

Often, babies will want to feed constantly while they have a cold. Their bodies know that they need the valuable milk that you are producing for an antibody hit to help them recover. Your breastmilk can help to soothe a sore and irritated throat, and frequent cuddles and contact can help with aches and pains.

Will a breastfed baby catch my cold?

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.

How to help a congested baby nurse?

3- Breastfeed In An Upright Position
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.

How to fight a cold 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.