What bacteria can be passed through breast milk?

The Microbial Landscape of Breast Milk
Breast milk is often hailed as the gold standard for infant nutrition, not only for its rich array of nutrients but also for its complex microbiome. Recent research has illuminated the presence of various bacteria in breast milk, which play a crucial role in shaping the health and immune development of newborns.
Beneficial Bacteria in Breast Milk
Human breast milk is a reservoir of beneficial microbes, including strains of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. These bacteria are recognized as probiotics, which can help establish a healthy gut microbiome in infants. The presence of these microorganisms is essential as they contribute to the development of the infant’s immune system and digestive health . Studies have shown that breast milk can stimulate the proliferation of these beneficial bacteria, creating an acidic environment rich in short-chain fatty acids that further supports gut health.
The Role of Extracellular Vesicles
In addition to live bacteria, breast milk contains extracellular vesicles (EVs) released by these microbes. These tiny membrane-bound packages are believed to carry bioactive compounds that can influence the infant’s gut microbiome positively. This interplay between the bacteria and EVs in breast milk is crucial for establishing a robust microbial community in the infant’s digestive system.
Potential Pathogens and Risks
While breast milk is predominantly beneficial, it can also harbor pathogenic bacteria under certain conditions. For instance, infections such as Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus can be transmitted through breast milk, particularly if the mother has mastitis or other infections. However, the risk of transmitting harmful bacteria is generally low, especially when proper hygiene practices are followed during breastfeeding.
Contamination vs. Natural Presence
It’s important to note that the bacteria found in breast milk are not solely the result of contamination. Research indicates that certain anaerobic bacteria, including bifidobacteria, can be detected in breast milk even when the breast is cleaned before collection, suggesting that these microbes are a natural part of the milk’s composition. This challenges the traditional view of breast milk as a sterile fluid and highlights its role as a living ecosystem.
Conclusion
In summary, breast milk is a dynamic and complex fluid teeming with a variety of bacteria that can significantly benefit infant health. While it can occasionally carry pathogens, the overall microbial profile of breast milk is geared towards promoting a healthy gut microbiome and supporting immune development. As research continues to evolve, the understanding of how these microbial communities function and their long-term effects on health will undoubtedly deepen, reinforcing the importance of breastfeeding in early life.

What is the 120 breastfeeding rule?

The 120-minute rule is a helpful guideline for exclusive pumpers. It suggests spending at least 120 minutes (or 2 hours) each day pumping. How you divide that time depends on your baby’s age.

Can you pass a bacterial infection through breast milk?

Breast milk can occasionally transmit serious viral and bacterial infections to preterm infants. We present three cases of late-onset neonatal sepsis, including one that resulted in death, occurring in preterm infants. The likely source of the microorganisms in all three cases was expressed breast milk.

What is the 5 5 5 rule for breast milk?

Something I recommend to moms is the 5-5-5 rule. Try and use milk within five hours at room temperature, five days in the fridge, and by five months in the freezer.

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 infections are transmitted through breast milk?

Serious Illnesses and Breastfeeding

• COVID-19. A parent who tests positive for COVID-19 can breastfeed their infant.
• HIV.
• Hepatitis B.
• Hepatitis C.
• Tuberculosis.
• Other infections.
• Cancer.
• More information.

Does breastmilk lose nutrients when pumped?

According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), freshly expressed breast milk can be safely kept at room temperature (77°F or colder) for up to 4 hours. Generally, when freshly pumped, breast milk is at its peak regarding nutrients.

Can a mother pass illness through breast milk?

Influenza, or flu, does not spread to infants through breast milk. The transmission rates of other respiratory illness during breastfeeding are low.

Can HPV be transmitted through breast milk?

There is more research needed to understand the transmission between mother and child. HPV can also be passed through breast feeding but this is very rare and shouldn’t be a reason not to breastfeed. If it’s something you are concerned about – talk to your doctor or midwife.

Can anything be passed through breast milk?

Infectious organisms can reach the breast milk either by secretion in the fluid or cellular components of breast milk or by contamination of the milk at the time of or after expression.

What STDs can be passed through breast milk?

If you have HIV, do not breastfeed. You can pass the virus to your baby. In countries like the United States where clean water is available, using a breastmilk substitute like formula is recommended. If you have chlamydia, gonorrhea, or HPV, you can breastfeed your baby.