How can I stop my baby from coughing while breastfeeding?

Understanding the Issue
Coughing during breastfeeding can be distressing for both the baby and the mother. It often stems from various factors, including the baby’s age, feeding technique, or even underlying health issues. For new mothers, especially those with infants just getting the hang of breastfeeding, this can be particularly concerning.
Common Causes of Coughing
One of the primary reasons babies cough while breastfeeding is due to forceful letdown. This occurs when milk flows too quickly for the baby to swallow comfortably, leading to coughing or choking. This is especially common in mothers with an oversupply of milk. Additionally, if the baby is not latched properly, they may struggle to manage the flow of milk, resulting in coughing fits.
Other potential causes include congestion from colds or allergies, which can make it difficult for the baby to breathe while feeding. If the baby has a cold, they might cough as a reflex to clear their airways.
Strategies to Mitigate Coughing
To help reduce coughing during breastfeeding, consider the following strategies:
1. Adjust Feeding Position: Experiment with different breastfeeding positions. Holding your baby in a more upright position can help them manage the flow of milk better and reduce the likelihood of coughing.
2. Control Milk Flow: If you suspect a forceful letdown is the issue, try expressing a small amount of milk before latching your baby. This can help slow the flow and make it easier for your baby to feed without coughing.
3. Take Breaks: If your baby starts coughing, gently remove them from the breast and allow them to take a moment to breathe. This can help them regain their composure before continuing to feed.
4. Monitor for Illness: If your baby is coughing persistently, it may be a sign of an underlying illness. Keep an eye out for other symptoms, such as fever or unusual irritability, and consult a pediatrician if necessary.
5. Stay Hydrated: Ensure that you are well-hydrated, as this can help maintain a steady milk supply and potentially reduce the forcefulness of your letdown.
When to Seek Help
If your baby continues to cough frequently during breastfeeding or shows signs of distress, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional. They can assess whether there are any underlying health issues, such as respiratory infections or allergies, that need to be addressed.
In conclusion, while coughing during breastfeeding can be a common issue, understanding its causes and implementing some practical strategies can help alleviate the problem. Always prioritize your baby’s comfort and health, and don’t hesitate to seek professional advice if concerns persist.

Will my breastfed baby catch my cough?

Summary. You can continue to breastfeed when you have a cough, cold, the flu or COVID-19. Your child will not catch the infection from your breastmilk. Your milk will contain antibodies to the infection, which may protect your child.

How to tell if baby has milk in lungs?

What are the symptoms of aspiration in children?

1. Coughing when drinking, particularly with thin liquids.
2. Difficulty feeding.
3. Frequent respiratory infections or recurrent pneumonia.
4. Noisy breathing while drinking.
5. Gagging during meals.
6. Back arching during feeding.
7. Skin turning a bluish color.

Why does my baby cough when I feed milk?

Your baby often chokes while drinking
If the nipple you are using flows too quickly and your baby has too much milk in her mouth, she may choke (i.e., she swallows noisily, coughs and spits up a little milk).

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.

What is the best cough suppressant when breastfeeding?

For a dry cough, a cough suppressant such as pholcodine or dextromethorphan is considered safe while breastfeeding. A dry, irritating cough is usually associated with a postnasal drip.

How I cured my baby’s reflux breastfeeding?

Helping your baby with reflux

1. get advice about your baby’s breastfeeding position.
2. hold your baby upright during feeding and for as long as possible after feeding.
3. burp (or wind) your baby regularly during feeds.
4. make sure your baby sleeps flat on their back (they should not sleep on their side or front)

Why is my baby coughing and choking on my breast?

Some mothers have such a strong let-down at times that the baby can’t always handle the volume of milk well. If your baby chokes, gags, or pushes off of the breast a minute or two after starting to feed, an overactive let-down may be the cause.

What helps a breastfeeding mother with a cough?

Gargle some salt water. If you have a cough, try a cough medicine that is based on glycerine and honey. Ask your pharmacist to recommend one that is safe for breastfeeding. A throat lozenge can help ease a dry sore throat.

What to do when baby coughs while breastfeeding?

If your baby is pulling off and gagging or coughing during feeding, sit your baby up in a seated burp position. Gently pat your baby’s back to help your little one calm down before you continue feeding. If you’ve tried the steps above and this continues to happen, talk to your doctor or lactation consultant.

Why is my baby coughing and choking when I feed her?

It’s normal for a baby or young child to choke and cough from time to time. When it happens frequently, there could be cause for concern. These episodes are typically due to aspiration, food or liquid accidentally entering the airway.