Is it safe to breastfeed with sepsis?

Understanding the Safety of Breastfeeding with Sepsis
Breastfeeding is widely recognized for its numerous benefits to both mothers and infants, but when a mother is diagnosed with sepsis, concerns about the safety of breastfeeding can arise. Sepsis, a severe and potentially life-threatening response to infection, can complicate maternal health and raise questions about the transmission of pathogens through breast milk.
The Nature of Sepsis and Its Implications
Sepsis occurs when the body has an extreme response to an infection, leading to systemic inflammation and potential organ failure. It is a significant cause of maternal morbidity and mortality, with a notable impact on pregnancy outcomes. In the UK, for instance, maternal sepsis accounts for approximately 10% of pregnancy-related deaths. Given the seriousness of this condition, it is crucial to assess whether breastfeeding poses any risks to the infant.
Breastfeeding During Maternal Sepsis
The consensus among healthcare professionals is that breastfeeding can generally continue during maternal sepsis, provided that the mother is stable and not experiencing severe symptoms. The primary concern is whether the pathogens causing sepsis could be transmitted through breast milk. While breast milk can occasionally harbor harmful bacteria or viruses, the risk of transmission is typically low for most infections.
In fact, breast milk has protective properties that can benefit infants, particularly premature babies. Research indicates that components in breast milk may help prevent sepsis in vulnerable populations, such as preterm infants. This suggests that, in many cases, the benefits of breastfeeding may outweigh the risks, especially if the mother is able to maintain good hygiene practices.
When to Consider Pumping and Dumping
In certain situations, such as if the mother is experiencing severe symptoms or if there is a specific concern about the type of infection causing sepsis, healthcare providers may recommend temporarily pumping and discarding breast milk. This is particularly relevant if the infection is known to be transmissible through breast milk or if the mother is on medications that could affect the milk.
Conclusion: A Balanced Approach
Ultimately, the decision to breastfeed during an episode of sepsis should be made on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the mother’s health status, the nature of the infection, and the advice of healthcare professionals. For many mothers, continuing to breastfeed can provide essential nutrients and immune support to their infants, while also fostering the mother-infant bond during a challenging time. As always, open communication with healthcare providers is key to ensuring the safety and well-being of both mother and child.

Can sepsis be passed from mother to baby?

The infection which caused the sepsis could pass from the mother to the child before, during or after the birth, which is why there is additional monitoring for the baby during the birth .

What illnesses should you not breastfeed?

When Should I Not Breastfeed My Baby?

• If the mother has been infected with HIV or has AIDS.
• Many medications taken by the mother may pass onto the baby via breast milk.
• Mothers with cancer who are taking cancer chemotherapy medications also cannot breastfeed their babies.

What are the first signs of sepsis in babies?

A baby or young child has any of these symptoms of sepsis:

• blue, grey, pale or blotchy skin, lips or tongue – on brown or black skin, this may be easier to see on the palms of the hands or soles of the feet.
• a rash that does not fade when you roll a glass over it, the same as meningitis.

What is the survival rate for infants with sepsis?

Early neonatal sepsis is associated with a significant mortality rate of up to 54% [1], despite modern treatment strategies.

What to do for sepsis nursing?

Nursing Management

1. Monitor vital signs.
2. Assess neurovitals.
3. Obtain cultures (blood, urine, sputum)
4. Administer antibiotics.
5. Check labs for electrolytes, renal and liver function.
6. Ensure patient has DVT and pressure sore prophylaxis.
7. Consult with dietitian regarding feeding.
8. Assess oxygenation and ventilation.

Can you breastfeed if you have sepsis?

Maternal sepsis can hinder milk production and your ability to breastfeed your baby. It can impact the body’s ability to produce milk and it may take months before it is healthy enough to do so again. Some medications, particularly antimicrobials, can also be a risk to the child if passed to them through breastfeeding.

How does sepsis affect babies?

A newborn who has an infection and develops sepsis can have inflammation throughout their body. This inflammation and blood clotting causes reduced blood flow to your baby’s limbs and vital organs.

What is the most severe cause of maternal sepsis?

Maternal sepsis could be caused by pre- or postpartum infections due to:

• Mastitis (one or both breasts)
• Miscarriage.
• Preterm delivery.
• Membrane rupture due to prolonged or obstructed labor.
• Cesarean/C-section.
• Non-sterile abortion.
• Stillbirth.
• Multiple gestations (twins or more)

What organ shuts down first with sepsis?

Sepsis can overwhelm the body. This can cause vital organs to shut down. This usually starts with the kidneys.

What happens if you breastfeed with an infection?

In most maternal viral infections, breast milk is not an important mode of transmission, and continuation of breastfeeding is in the best interest of the infant and mother (see Tables 2 and 3). Maternal bacterial infections rarely are complicated by transmission of infection to their infants through breast milk.