How to stop baby coughing while breastfeeding?

Understanding Baby Coughing During Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is a natural and nurturing experience, but it can sometimes be interrupted by a baby’s cough. This can be alarming for new parents, especially when the baby is still getting accustomed to feeding. Understanding the reasons behind this coughing and knowing how to manage it can help create a more comfortable experience for both mother and child.
Common Causes of Coughing
Coughing during breastfeeding can occur for several reasons. One common cause is forceful letdown, where milk flows too quickly for the baby to handle. This can lead to coughing or choking as the baby struggles to keep up with the flow. Additionally, if the baby is congested due to a cold or allergies, this can also trigger coughing fits while feeding.
Another factor to consider is the baby’s positioning. If the baby is not latched properly or is in an awkward position, it may lead to difficulties in swallowing, resulting in coughing.
Strategies to Alleviate Coughing
To help reduce coughing during breastfeeding, mothers can try several strategies:
1. Adjust Feeding Position: Ensuring that the baby is in a comfortable and upright position can help. This allows gravity to assist in the feeding process and can reduce the likelihood of choking or coughing.
2. Manage Milk Flow: If a forceful letdown is suspected, mothers can try expressing a small amount of milk before latching the baby. This can help moderate the flow and make it easier for the baby to manage.
3. Take Breaks: If the baby starts coughing, it’s important to pause the feeding. Allow the baby to take a moment to breathe and recover before continuing. This can help prevent further coughing episodes.
4. Monitor for Illness: If the coughing persists, it may be a sign of an underlying illness, such as a cold or allergies. In such cases, consulting a pediatrician is advisable to rule out any serious conditions.
5. Stay Calm: Babies can pick up on their mother’s anxiety. Staying calm during a coughing episode can help soothe the baby and make the experience less stressful for both parties.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While occasional coughing during breastfeeding can be normal, persistent coughing or signs of distress should not be ignored. If the baby exhibits difficulty breathing, has a persistent cough, or shows signs of illness, it is crucial to seek medical advice promptly.
Conclusion
Coughing during breastfeeding can be concerning, but understanding its causes and implementing simple strategies can help alleviate the issue. By adjusting feeding techniques and being mindful of the baby’s comfort, mothers can create a more enjoyable breastfeeding experience. If concerns persist, consulting with a healthcare professional is always the best course of action.

Can cough transfer through breastfeeding?

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.

Is it normal for a baby to cough while breastfeeding?

Usually, this happens when mom has an oversupply of milk. According to the La Leche League International (LLLI), common signs of oversupply include restlessness at the breast, coughing, choking, or gulping milk, especially at let down, and biting on the nipple to stop the flow of milk, among others.

How do I know if my breastmilk is upsetting my baby’s stomach?

If symptoms occur such as fussiness, irritability, crying, gas, increased spitting up and/or drawing their legs up due to tummy pain, write down everything you ate that day. This lets you carefully look at your diet instead of getting rid of foods that may not be the cause of your baby’s distress.

Why can’t you eat chocolate while breastfeeding?

Caffeine. It’s not just tea and coffee that contains caffeine – it’s in chocolate, and various energy drinks and soft drinks. It’s sensible to cut caffeine out while breastfeeding because it’s a stimulant so can make your baby restless.

How do I stop my baby from coughing when I feed?

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.

What helps a cough while breastfeeding?

Cough. Two main OTC cough medications are considered safe to take when breastfeeding: dextromethorphan (Delsym) and guaifenesin (Mucinex, Robitussin). Dextromethorphan helps calm a cough. The amount found in breast milk after taking it is very low, so it should be safe for your baby.

When should I be concerned about my baby’s cough?

Call your pediatrician if:
Your child has a cough combined with fast breathing. Your child has a high fever, especially if he’s coughing but does not have a runny or stuffy nose. Your child can’t speak normally because of coughing. Your infant (3 months or younger) has been coughing for more than a few hours.

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)

What not to do while breastfeeding?

Don’t drink alcohol when you’re breastfeeding. Alcohol includes beer, wine, wine coolers and liquor. If you do drink alcohol, don’t have more than two drinks a week. Wait at least 2 hours after each drink before you breastfeed.

How do I tell if my baby is allergic to my breast milk?

Symptoms of dairy allergy in breastfed babies
Some of the most common symptoms of an allergic reaction include: Hives or skin rash. Nausea or vomiting. Abdominal pain.