What to do if a breastfeeding mom gets a cold and cough?

Navigating Illness While Breastfeeding: A Guide for Moms with Colds and Coughs
When a breastfeeding mother catches a cold or develops a cough, it can be a concerning time, not just for her but also for her baby. However, the good news is that breastfeeding can continue safely, and there are effective strategies to manage both the illness and the breastfeeding relationship.
Breastfeeding is Safe During a Cold
First and foremost, mothers should know that it is generally safe to breastfeed while sick with a cold. Viruses like the common cold do not pass into breast milk, meaning that breastfeeding can continue without risk to the baby. In fact, breast milk can provide essential antibodies that may help protect the infant from illness, enhancing their immune response.
Hygiene Practices to Consider
While breastfeeding is safe, it’s important to take precautions to minimize the risk of transmitting germs to the baby. Here are some recommended practices:
– Wear a Mask: If coughing or sneezing is present, wearing a mask during breastfeeding can help prevent respiratory droplets from reaching the baby. This simple step can significantly reduce the risk of transmission.

– Hand Hygiene: Regular handwashing is crucial. Mothers should wash their hands thoroughly before handling their baby or breastfeeding to eliminate any germs that may have been transferred from surfaces or their own body.
– Nasal Care for the Baby: If the baby shows signs of congestion, using saline nasal drops can help clear their nasal passages before feeding. This ensures that the baby can feed comfortably.
Managing Symptoms While Breastfeeding
Mothers need not suffer through their cold without relief. There are several over-the-counter medications that are considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. It’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider or refer to reliable resources to identify which medications can alleviate symptoms without affecting milk supply or the baby.
Rest and Recovery
Breastfeeding can be a comforting experience for both mother and baby, providing a chance for the mother to rest while bonding with her child. It’s essential for mothers to prioritize their own recovery by getting adequate rest, staying hydrated, and eating nutritious foods to support their immune system.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While most colds are mild and manageable, mothers should be vigilant. If symptoms worsen or if there are concerns about the baby’s health, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional. They can provide tailored advice and ensure that both mother and baby remain healthy during this time.
In summary, a cold or cough does not necessitate stopping breastfeeding. With proper hygiene, safe medication choices, and a focus on self-care, mothers can navigate their illness while continuing to provide the benefits of breast milk to their babies.

Should I stay away from my baby if I have a cold?

The best defense against the common cold is commonsense precautions and frequent hand-washing. Keep your baby away from anyone who’s sick. If you have a newborn, don’t allow visits from anyone who’s sick.

How to get rid of a cold fast while breastfeeding?

Making sure you take in plenty of fluids and eat nourishing foods. Use saline sprays and humidifiers for nasal congestion and throat lozenges for sore throat and cough. If you are sick enough to need antiviral medications, Tamiflu is preferred for breastfeeding mothers over other antiviral medications.

How do you get rid of a cold fast while breastfeeding?

Making sure you take in plenty of fluids and eat nourishing foods. Use saline sprays and humidifiers for nasal congestion and throat lozenges for sore throat and cough. If you are sick enough to need antiviral medications, Tamiflu is preferred for breastfeeding mothers over other antiviral medications.

Does baby get cold if mother has cold?

Your baby has already been exposed to the cold virus before you started to develop symptoms. Your body is working hard to produce specific antibodies to protect your baby from the cold virus. By continuing to breastfeed or pump, your baby receives these antibodies through your milk.

What medicine can I take while breastfeeding for a cold?

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).

What happens if your mom has a cold while breastfeeding?

If you have a cold or flu, fever, diarrhoea 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.

Is emergen C safe for 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.

Why is Zyrtec not recommended for breastfeeding?

However, caution is advised for cetirizine use while breastfeeding due to the theoretical risk of CNS depression based on limited human data and risk of decreased milk production.

How to treat cough and cold while breastfeeding?

Two main OTC cough medications are considered safe to take when breastfeeding: dextromethorphan (Delsym) and guaifenesin (Mucinex, Robitussin). Dextromethorphan helps calm a cough. The amount found in breast milk after taking it is very low, so it should be safe for your baby. Guaifenesin is an expectorant.

Can I pass my cold to my breastfed baby?

Not only is it safe but breastfeeding during illness is also a good idea. The CDC states, “A mother’s breast milk contains antibodies and other immunological factors that can help protect her infant from illness and is the recommended source of nutrition for the infant, even while the mother is ill.