What happens to breastmilk when mom gets sick?

The Impact of Maternal Illness on Breastmilk
When a breastfeeding mother falls ill, the implications for both her and her baby are significant yet often misunderstood. Contrary to common fears, the act of breastfeeding during illness is generally safe and can even be beneficial for the infant.
Breastmilk and Antibodies
One of the most remarkable aspects of breastmilk is its dynamic nature. When a mother becomes sick, her body responds by producing specific antibodies tailored to the illness she is experiencing. These antibodies are then transferred to her breastmilk, providing her baby with a protective shield against the illness. This means that while the mother may be feeling unwell, her milk is actively working to bolster her baby’s immune system. As noted by experts, “your milk will not transmit your illness to baby, but it does have antibodies in it that are specific to your illness”. This protective mechanism can help prevent the baby from getting sick or, if they do contract the illness, it may lessen the severity of their symptoms.
Safety of Breastfeeding During Illness
For mothers concerned about transmitting infections, it’s reassuring to know that most common viruses, such as those causing colds or the flu, do not pass into breastmilk. This allows mothers to continue breastfeeding without fear of harming their child. In fact, breastfeeding can provide comfort and a sense of security for both mother and baby during times of illness.
Nutritional Adjustments in Breastmilk
Breastmilk is not only a source of antibodies; it also contains a constantly adjusting balance of nutrients that can support the mother’s recovery. When a mother is sick, her body modifies the composition of her milk to enhance its healing properties. This includes an increase in white blood cells and protective enzymes that help fight infections. Thus, the milk adapts not only to the needs of the baby but also reflects the mother’s health status, promoting a symbiotic relationship during illness.
Challenges for the Mother
While the benefits of breastfeeding during illness are clear, mothers may face challenges. Illness can lead to fatigue, making it more difficult to care for a baby and maintain breastfeeding routines. Additionally, some medications taken for illness may raise concerns about their safety during breastfeeding. It is crucial for mothers to consult healthcare providers about any medications they are considering to ensure they are safe for breastfeeding.
Conclusion
In summary, when a mother gets sick, her breastmilk transforms into a powerful ally for her baby. It not only provides essential nutrients but also delivers specific antibodies that can help protect the infant from illness. While the experience of being unwell can be daunting, the act of breastfeeding remains a safe and beneficial practice that fosters health and resilience in both mother and child.

Can a baby catch a cold from its mother?

Someone with a cold who touches your baby’s hand can spread the cold virus to your baby, who can become infected after touching his or her eyes, nose or mouth. Contaminated surfaces. Some viruses live on surfaces for two hours or longer. Your baby may catch a virus by touching a contaminated surface, such as a toy.

Should I stay away from my baby if I’m sick?

Wash your hands frequently to prevent the spread of germs. Avoid close contact with your baby if you are sick and encourage friends and family to do the same, especially during cold and flu season.

Does kissing your baby change your breastmilk?

When a mother kisses her baby, she samples the pathogens on her baby’s face, which then travel to the mom’s lymphatic system. The mother’s body then creates the antibodies to fight those pathogens, which she feeds to her baby in her milk. So amazing, right!?

What to do if a breastfeeding mom gets cold?

Summary

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

Does breastmilk supply drop when sick?

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.

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.

Can you pass illness to baby through breastmilk?

If you have a cold or flu, fever, diarrhea and vomiting, or mastitis, keep breastfeeding as normal. Your baby won’t catch the illness through your breast milk – in fact, it will contain antibodies to reduce her risk of getting the same bug. “Not only is it safe, breastfeeding while sick is a good idea.

Will my baby get sick if I’m sick?

While you’re sick, though, protect your baby from as many germs as possible. Babies have a higher risk of catching the flu and having health problems from it. So: Wash your hands well and often.

Does breastmilk change when baby is unwell?

When your baby is sick, your milk may actually change its composition in response to the baby’s saliva, providing even more of the beneficial compounds babies need to get well.

Does mom being sick affect breast milk?

With most common illnesses like a cold or flu, it is safe to continue breastfeeding your baby as long as you take proper hygiene precautions like handwashing. Continuing to breastfeed will help you to maintain your milk supply and will provide your baby with protection against the illness you are experiencing.