What to do if a breastfeeding mom gets cold?

Understanding the Situation
When a breastfeeding mother catches a cold, it can be a concerning time, not just for her but also for her baby. The good news is that, in most cases, it is safe to continue breastfeeding. In fact, breastfeeding during illness can provide significant benefits to the baby, including the transfer of antibodies that help protect against the illness.
Safety of Breastfeeding While Sick
According to health experts, breastfeeding while experiencing a common cold is generally safe. The mother’s milk does not transmit the virus to the baby, and the act of breastfeeding can actually help bolster the infant’s immune system. As noted by UNICEF Parenting, maintaining proper hygiene practices, such as frequent handwashing, is crucial to minimize any risk of spreading germs.
If a mother feels too ill to nurse directly, she can pump her breast milk and have someone who is not sick feed the baby. This ensures that the baby continues to receive the nutritional and immunological benefits of breast milk without direct exposure to the illness.
Managing Symptoms
For mothers dealing with cold symptoms, self-care is essential. Staying hydrated and getting plenty of rest are key components of recovery. Cold symptoms typically last between six to ten days, peaking around days four to five.
When it comes to medication, some over-the-counter cold remedies are safe for breastfeeding mothers, while others are not. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine which medications can be taken without affecting milk supply or the baby.
Practical Tips for Nursing Moms
1. Hydration and Nutrition: Drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious foods to support your immune system and maintain milk production.

2. Rest: Prioritize rest whenever possible. Sleep is vital for recovery, and even short naps can help.
3. Hygiene Practices: Wash hands frequently and consider wearing a mask while nursing if symptoms are severe, to reduce the risk of spreading germs.
4. Monitor Baby’s Health: Keep an eye on the baby for any signs of illness. If the baby shows symptoms, consult a pediatrician.
5. Consult Healthcare Providers: If symptoms worsen or if there are concerns about breastfeeding while sick, reaching out to a healthcare provider can provide peace of mind and guidance.
Conclusion
In summary, a breastfeeding mother who catches a cold can continue to nurse her baby safely, benefiting both herself and her child. By taking appropriate precautions and focusing on self-care, she can manage her symptoms effectively while ensuring her baby receives the best possible nutrition and immune support.

How do I fight a cold while breastfeeding?

Try the following to help the discomfort of a cold or a sore throat when breastfeeding:

1. Take honey and lemon mixed in hot water, or sip on other warm fluids like natural teas to keep your throat moist.
2. Gargle some salt water.
3. If you have a cough, try a cough medicine that is based on glycerine and honey.

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.

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.

Can my breastfed baby catch a cold from me?

So, here is the good news. Your body has superpowers! Did you know that you cannot pass illnesses such as the cold, flu, fever, diarrhea, vomiting and even COVID through your breast milk?

What happens if breastfeeding mom gets cold?

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.

Does having a cold affect milk supply?

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.

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

Quarantine Yourself
But keeping your distance when you’re under the weather is best for your whole family and can help cut down on the spread of germs. If you can, keep yourself contained to a different room altogether. This goes for sleeping, too.

What if a breastfeeding mom gets cold?

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.

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.

What to do if mom has a cold with a newborn?

Try not to cough or sneeze on your baby, as infection is carried in droplets from your mouth and nose. If you have Covid, you could consider wearing a face mask. Check out the advice from the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) here.