Should I stop breastfeeding if I have an upset stomach?

Should You Stop Breastfeeding If You Have an Upset Stomach?
When a breastfeeding mother experiences an upset stomach, the immediate concern often revolves around the well-being of her baby. The good news is that in most cases, continuing to breastfeed is not only safe but can also be beneficial for your infant.
#The Benefits of Breastfeeding During Illness
Breastfeeding during episodes of gastrointestinal distress, such as an upset stomach or even stomach flu, can provide significant advantages. According to health experts, breast milk contains antibodies and nutrients that can help bolster a baby’s immune system. This is particularly important if the mother is experiencing a viral infection, as the antibodies passed through breast milk can help protect the baby from illness.
Moreover, if the upset stomach is due to something like food poisoning, the mother can still nurse her baby. In fact, breastfeeding can help shield the infant from potential pathogens, as the mother’s body produces antibodies in response to the illness.
#Dietary Considerations
While breastfeeding, it’s essential to consider what you eat and drink, as certain foods can affect both your stomach and your baby. If you suspect that your diet is contributing to your upset stomach, it may be wise to evaluate your food choices. Foods that are known to cause discomfort, such as spicy or greasy items, might need to be limited.
If you’re looking for relief from your upset stomach while continuing to breastfeed, there are several safe options. Foods like bananas, rice, and certain antacids are generally considered safe and can help soothe your symptoms.
#When to Seek Medical Advice
However, there are circumstances where stopping breastfeeding might be necessary. If your upset stomach is accompanied by severe symptoms such as persistent vomiting, high fever, or dehydration, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional. They can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation and help determine the best course of action for both you and your baby.
In summary, unless advised otherwise by a healthcare provider, you should not stop breastfeeding if you have an upset stomach. Instead, focus on managing your symptoms and maintaining a balanced diet to ensure both your health and that of your baby.

Should I still breastfeed if I have a stomach bug?

Yes. There are very few illnesses that require you to stop breastfeeding. If you have an infection of some sort, you should continue. Your breastmilk has many immune protective factors (including antibodies, white blood cells etc) which help to protect your baby from infection.

Should I breastfeed if my stomach is upset?

A nursing mother with diarrhea caused by food or water sources can continue to breastfeed her child. However, she should also increase her own fluid intake to prevent dehydration (loss of too much water in the body).

When should you not breastfeed?

Women who actively use drugs or do not control their alcohol intake, or who have a history of these situations, also may be advised not to breastfeed. Infants who have galactosemia—a rare metabolic disorder in which the body cannot digest the sugar galactose—should not be breastfed.

What is the number one reason breastfed babies have upset stomach?

No one can deny breast milk is the ultimate superfood — but if a nursing baby is sensitive to something in your diet, it can spell trouble for their tummy. Spicy foods, dairy, and caffeine are a few potential contenders that may unsettle baby’s stomach.

Can diarrhea affect breast 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.

Should I stop breastfeeding if baby has diarrhea?

Coping with Diarrhea in Babies
If you’re breastfeeding: Your pediatrician will probably recommend that you keep breastfeeding as usual. If your baby is formula-fed: Your pediatrician may instruct you to give your baby a special drink that contains electrolytes and sugar.

What can a breastfeeding mom take for an upset stomach?

Medicines to treat gas and bloating, such as Gas-X, Maalox, Mylanta, and others, are safe to take while breastfeeding. They contain simethicone, which is sometimes given to infants. It is also not absorbed into the mother’s system, so wouldn’t be transmitted in breast milk.

Should I keep nursing if baby is vomiting?

If vomits more than once, nurse for 5 minutes every 30 to 60 minutes. After 4 hours without throwing up, return to regular nursing. If continues to vomit, switch to pumped breastmilk. (ORS is rarely needed in breastfed babies.

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 long should I wait to breastfeed after taking Pepto Bismol?

Because of the unknown side effects in infants and the lack of data available, it’s best to refrain from taking Pepto Bismol until you are done breastfeeding.