What can breastfeeding moms take for flu?

Navigating Flu Season: What Breastfeeding Moms Should Know
As flu season approaches, many breastfeeding mothers find themselves grappling with the question of how to manage their health while ensuring the safety of their infants. The good news is that breastfeeding can continue even when a mother is ill, including with the flu. Here’s a detailed look at what breastfeeding moms can take for flu symptoms and how to protect their little ones during this time.
Continuing to Breastfeed
Breastfeeding while sick is generally safe and encouraged. According to health experts, viruses like the flu do not pass into breast milk, meaning that mothers can continue to provide their infants with the nutritional and immunological benefits of breast milk without fear of transmitting the virus. In fact, breast milk can be particularly beneficial for sick infants, as it helps keep them hydrated and provides essential antibodies that can aid in their recovery.
Hygiene Practices
While breastfeeding, it’s crucial for mothers to adopt good hygiene practices to minimize the risk of spreading the virus to their babies. This includes thoroughly washing hands before handling the baby and wearing a mask during breastfeeding sessions to prevent respiratory droplets from reaching the infant . These precautions are not only applicable to the flu but also to other respiratory viruses, ensuring a safer environment for both mother and child.
Medications for Flu Symptoms
When it comes to managing flu symptoms, breastfeeding mothers have several safe options. Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen are considered first-choice options for treating fever and headaches, as only a minuscule amount of these medications transfers into breast milk. Additionally, certain nasal sprays and tablets designed to alleviate congestion are also safe for nursing mothers.
However, it’s essential for mothers to consult with healthcare providers before starting any new medication, as individual health circumstances can vary.
The Importance of Vaccination
Preventative measures, such as getting vaccinated against the flu, are highly recommended for breastfeeding mothers. The CDC states that the inactivated flu vaccine is safe for breastfeeding women and can help protect both the mother and her baby by passing antibodies through breast milk. This proactive approach not only reduces the risk of contracting the flu but also fortifies the infant’s immune system.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers can safely continue to nurse their infants while managing flu symptoms. By adhering to good hygiene practices, utilizing safe medications, and considering vaccination, mothers can protect both their health and that of their babies during flu season. As always, consulting with healthcare professionals is key to making informed decisions tailored to individual health needs.

Can a breastfeeding mom take Tylenol cold and flu?

Many medicines are safe to use when you breastfeed. These include: Pain relievers, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin). Some cold and influenza (flu) medicines.

Is DayQuil safe for 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).

Does flu affect breast milk supply?

The flu can make even the toughest mom miserable, so self-care is important. Both illnesses and some medications can contribute to a decline in milk productivity, so mothers should keep a close eye on their production, drink plenty of water and get lots of rest.

Can flu affect breast milk supply?

The flu can make even the toughest mom miserable, so self-care is important. Both illnesses and some medications can contribute to a decline in milk productivity, so mothers should keep a close eye on their production, drink plenty of water and get lots of rest.

Can I pass flu to my baby?

The flu virus is usually spread when people cough and sneeze, sending tiny droplets of the virus into the air. These germs either travel directly to another person or land on surfaces, where they can live for up to 24 hours.

What can I take for flu while breastfeeding?

Summary

• You can continue to breastfeed when you have a cough, cold, the flu or COVID-19.
• You can take paracetamol and ibuprofen whilst breastfeeding, at the normal adult doses.
• Oral decongestants are not recommended when you are breastfeeding as they can reduce your milk supply with just one or two doses.

Is Tamiflu ok while breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding Patients
Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) is probably compatible with breastfeeding. Levels of oseltamivir in milk (39 ng/mL) are very low and would be subclinical to an infant. The infant would receive only about 0.5% of the mothers dose. The CDC considers oseltamivir safe to use in breastfeeding mothers.

Can a baby get flu from its mother?

If a mother is not ill with the flu, breastfeeding is encouraged. If you are sick, you may need to express your milk for use in bottle feedings given by a healthy person. It is unlikely a newborn can catch flu from drinking your breast milk when you are sick. Breast milk is considered safe if you are taking antivirals.

Can I take emergen C while 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.

Is Mucinex safe for 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.