How do you treat a cold while breastfeeding?

Treating a Cold While Breastfeeding: A Comprehensive Guide
When a breastfeeding mother catches a cold, it can be a challenging experience, but the good news is that she can continue to breastfeed safely. Understanding how to manage symptoms while ensuring the health of both mother and baby is crucial.
Breastfeeding is Safe During a Cold
First and foremost, it’s important to note that viruses like the common cold do not pass into breast milk. This means that breastfeeding remains safe even when a mother is sick. In fact, continuing to breastfeed can be beneficial, as it provides the baby with antibodies that help fight off infections. Experts recommend that mothers should keep breastfeeding through common illnesses, including colds and flu, as it not only nourishes the baby but also offers comfort during a time when the mother may feel unwell.
Managing Symptoms Effectively
While breastfeeding, mothers can take steps to alleviate their cold symptoms. Over-the-counter (OTC) cold medications are generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers, but it is essential to check the active ingredients to avoid any that could be harmful. For instance, medications containing alcohol or certain antihistamines like Benadryl should be avoided.
To minimize the impact of medication on the baby, mothers are advised to take their cold medicine right after breastfeeding. This timing helps to ensure that the baby is less exposed to peak drug levels. Additionally, if a mother is prescribed a long-acting medication, it’s best to take it after the last feed of the night or before the baby’s longest sleep period.
Hygiene Precautions
While breastfeeding, mothers should also take hygiene precautions to protect their infants. Simple measures such as frequent handwashing can significantly reduce the risk of transmitting germs. If a mother is coughing or sneezing, wearing a mask during breastfeeding can help prevent respiratory droplets from reaching the baby.
Natural Remedies and Comfort Measures
In addition to medications, mothers can explore natural remedies to relieve cold symptoms. Staying hydrated is crucial, so drinking plenty of fluids can help soothe a sore throat and thin mucus. Warm teas, broths, and soups can be comforting and beneficial. Using a humidifier in the room can also help ease congestion and make breathing easier.
Conclusion
In summary, treating a cold while breastfeeding involves a combination of safe medication use, hygiene practices, and natural remedies. Mothers should feel empowered to continue breastfeeding, as it not only supports their baby’s health but also provides emotional comfort during their recovery. By taking the right precautions and managing symptoms effectively, breastfeeding mothers can navigate a cold with confidence.

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.

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.”

How can I help my breastfed baby with a cold?

If your baby has a cold, you can make things easier by trying to keep him or her upright while feeding. Use saline drops and nose suction tools (like a bulb) to ease your baby’s nasal congestion. If nausea or diarrhea is the culprit, nurse as much as you can to keep up your baby’s hydration.

Will my baby catch my cold if I breastfeed?

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.

Can you take Mucinex while breastfeeding?

The expectorant guaifenesin and the cough suppressant dextromethorphan are often found together in products like Mucinex DM or Robitussin DM. Both of these medications have been used while breastfeeding. Small, occasional doses of antihistamines are acceptable while nursing.

How can I prevent passing my cold to my baby?

The best defense against the common cold is commonsense precautions and frequent hand-washing.

1. Keep your baby away from anyone who’s sick.
2. Wash your hands before feeding or touching your baby.
3. Clean your baby’s toys and pacifiers often.
4. Teach everyone in the household to cough or sneeze into a tissue.

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 cold medicine can I take 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).

How do you get rid of a cold while breastfeeding?

Yes, there are several ways to manage cold symptoms without medications while breastfeeding:

1. Drink lots of water or other clear liquids. Clear liquids, especially warm ones, help break up mucus in your nose and chest.
2. Take a hot, steamy shower.
3. Use a humidifier.
4. Try a saline nasal spray or neti pot.
5. Rest.

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.