How do you get rid of a cold while breastfeeding?

Managing a Cold While Breastfeeding
Catching a cold can be particularly challenging for breastfeeding mothers, who must balance their own health with the needs of their infant. Fortunately, there are effective strategies to manage symptoms and ensure both mother and baby remain healthy during this time.
Breastfeeding is Safe
First and foremost, it’s important to note that breastfeeding while sick is generally safe. The common cold is caused by a virus that does not pass into breast milk, meaning that mothers can continue to nurse without fear of transmitting the illness to their baby. In fact, breastfeeding can provide comfort to both mother and child, allowing for bonding time while the mother rests.
Time and Rest
While there is no cure for the common cold, the best approach is to allow time for the body to heal. Rest is crucial; taking breaks when possible can help the immune system fight off the virus more effectively. This is a good opportunity to lean on support from family or friends to help with household tasks or childcare.
Hydration and Nutrition
Staying hydrated is essential. Drinking plenty of fluids, such as water, herbal teas, and broths, can help alleviate symptoms and keep the body functioning optimally. Additionally, maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can support recovery. Foods high in vitamin C, like citrus fruits, and those containing zinc, such as nuts and seeds, can be particularly beneficial.
Safe Medications
If symptoms become bothersome, many over-the-counter cold medications are safe for breastfeeding mothers. Acetaminophen, for instance, is compatible with breastfeeding and can help reduce fever and relieve pain. However, it’s always wise to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any medication to ensure it is appropriate for your specific situation.
Preventing Transmission
To minimize the risk of spreading germs to the baby, mothers may consider wearing a mask while breastfeeding, especially if they are coughing or sneezing. Good hygiene practices, such as frequent handwashing and using tissues when sneezing, can also help protect the infant from potential exposure to the virus.
Conclusion
In summary, while dealing with a cold can be uncomfortable, breastfeeding mothers can manage their symptoms effectively without compromising their baby’s health. By prioritizing rest, hydration, and safe medication use, mothers can navigate this challenging time with greater ease. Remember, the body needs time to heal, and with the right care, both mother and baby can emerge healthy and happy.

How can I fight a cold while breastfeeding?

Try the following to help the discomfort of a cold or a sore throat when breastfeeding:

1. Take honey and lemon mixed in hot water, or sip on other warm fluids like natural teas to keep your throat moist.
2. Gargle some salt water.
3. If you have a cough, try a cough medicine that is based on glycerine and honey.

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.

Can a cold reduce milk supply?

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 are the 5 stages of cold?

Cold infections, which affect the upper respiratory tract (nose, sinuses, and throat), progress through four stages: incubation, early symptoms, peak symptoms, and recovery. You may develop different symptoms at each stage.

Can my breastfed baby catch a cold from me?

So, here is the good news. Your body has superpowers! Did you know that you cannot pass illnesses such as the cold, flu, fever, diarrhea, vomiting and even COVID through your breast milk?

What happens if a breastfeeding mom gets 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.

Will DayQuil dry up breast milk?

Other medications, like phenylephrine and pseudoephedrine, can hinder milk production and cause irritability or other side effects in babies. Avoid products sold under the brand names Benedryl, Sudafed, NyQuil, and DayQuil while lactating.

Will my baby get sick if I’m sick and breastfeeding?

In fact, your body will actually start producing antibodies for those illnesses and pass those antibodies through your milk to your baby, effectively reducing the risk and severity of those illnesses to your infant and/or toddler.

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.

Should I stay away from my baby if I’m sick?

Wash your hands frequently to prevent the spread of germs. Avoid close contact with your baby if you are sick and encourage friends and family to do the same, especially during cold and flu season.