What can I take if I have the flu and Im breastfeeding?

Navigating Flu Symptoms While Breastfeeding
When a breastfeeding mother contracts the flu, it can be a concerning time, both for her and her infant. However, health experts emphasize that continuing to breastfeed is not only safe but also beneficial during this period.
Breastfeeding Benefits During Illness
Breast milk is a vital source of nutrition and hydration for infants, especially when they are ill. It contains antibodies that can help protect the baby from infections, including the flu. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) encourages mothers to continue breastfeeding or to provide expressed breast milk, as it is the best option for keeping infants hydrated and nourished during illness. This is particularly important because infants need fluids to stay hydrated, and breast milk is uniquely suited to meet those needs.
What to Take When Sick
While breastfeeding, mothers may experience flu symptoms such as fever, body aches, and congestion. It’s crucial to manage these symptoms effectively while ensuring that any medications taken are safe for breastfeeding. Generally, many over-the-counter medications can be used, but caution is advised.
– Pain Relievers and Fever Reducers: Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) are typically considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. These medications can help alleviate fever and body aches without posing significant risks to the infant.
– Cold and Flu Medications: When it comes to cold and flu medications, options like saline nasal sprays and decongestants are often recommended. However, it’s best to avoid combination medications that may contain ingredients not suitable for breastfeeding. Always consult with a healthcare provider before taking any new medication.
– Hydration and Rest: In addition to medication, staying hydrated is essential. Drinking plenty of fluids, such as water, herbal teas, or broth, can help maintain milk supply and support recovery. Rest is equally important, as it allows the body to fight off the infection more effectively.
When to Seek Help
If a mother feels too ill to breastfeed, she can pump her breast milk and have someone else feed it to the baby. This ensures that the infant continues to receive the benefits of breast milk while the mother recovers. If symptoms worsen or if there are concerns about the baby’s health, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
In summary, while having the flu can be challenging for breastfeeding mothers, it is important to remember that breastfeeding can continue safely. With the right care and precautions, mothers can manage their symptoms while providing essential nutrition to their infants.

What cold and flu medicine is safe while breastfeeding?

Safe cold medicine while breastfeeding
In general, pseudoephedrine, dextromethorphan, NSAID pain relievers, acetaminophen, and second-generation allergy medications such as Zyrtec and Claritin are considered safe options for treating cold symptoms while breastfeeding. Dr.

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.

What can a breastfeeding mom take for the flu?

If you are sick enough to need antiviral medications, Tamiflu is preferred for breastfeeding mothers over other antiviral medications. If you need to take over the counter (OTC) medications to help treat symptoms, most OTC medications are compatible with breastfeeding but some medications are preferred over others.

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.

Can my breastfed baby catch my flu?

If you have the flu, you can keep breastfeeding your baby, even if you take antiviral medicines for flu-like symptoms. Breast milk is custom-made for babies, providing antibodies that babies need to fight infection. So, continuing to breastfeed can protect your baby from the infection that your body is fighting.

Can breastfeeding moms take Tylenol cold and flu Severe?

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 ok while 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).

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.

Can I take Mucinex while 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.

Is Tamiflu safe in 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.