What to do if mother has a cold while breastfeeding?

Navigating Breastfeeding with a Cold: A Guide for Mothers
When a breastfeeding mother catches a cold, it can be a source of concern, not just for her comfort but also for the health of her baby. Fortunately, the consensus among health experts is reassuring: it is generally safe to continue breastfeeding while sick. In fact, breastfeeding during illness can provide significant benefits for the baby.
The Safety of Breastfeeding While Sick
Most common illnesses, including colds, do not pose a risk to breastfeeding. In many cases, the mother’s body has already begun to produce antibodies in response to the virus, which can be passed to the baby through breast milk. This transfer of antibodies can help bolster the infant’s immune system, providing a layer of protection against the illness.
Hygiene Precautions
While breastfeeding is safe, it is crucial to maintain proper hygiene to minimize the risk of transmitting the virus to the baby. Here are some recommended practices:
– Handwashing: Frequent and thorough handwashing is essential. Mothers should wash their hands before handling their baby or any feeding equipment.
– Mask Wearing: If symptoms include coughing or sneezing, wearing a mask during breastfeeding can help prevent respiratory droplets from reaching the baby.
– Avoid Close Contact: If possible, try to keep a little distance when not breastfeeding to reduce the chance of spreading germs.
Managing Symptoms and Medication
Mothers may experience discomfort from cold symptoms, but many over-the-counter medications are compatible with breastfeeding. Common pain relievers like paracetamol and ibuprofen are generally considered safe. However, it is important to avoid certain medications, such as aspirin, which can be harmful to infants. Always consult with a healthcare provider before taking any medication to ensure it is safe while breastfeeding.
When to Consider Pausing Breastfeeding
In most cases, continuing to breastfeed is encouraged, but there are exceptions. If a mother is experiencing severe symptoms that prevent her from caring for her baby or if she is prescribed medication that is not safe for breastfeeding, it may be necessary to pause breastfeeding temporarily. In such cases, expressing milk can help maintain supply while ensuring the baby still receives the benefits of breast milk.
Conclusion
In summary, a cold does not have to derail a breastfeeding routine. With proper hygiene and care, mothers can continue to provide nourishment and comfort to their babies while also taking care of their own health. The benefits of breastfeeding during illness often outweigh the risks, making it a vital practice for both mother and child.

Is Tylenol cold and Sinus ok for breastfeeding?

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.

Can a cold dry up breast milk?

Getting 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.

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 medicine can I take for a cold 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).

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.

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.

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.

Are breastfed babies less likely to get RSV?

Infants receiving (exclusive or partial) maternal milk had lower risk of RSV bronchiolitis. Partial breastfeeding reduces risk of hospitalisation.

Can a baby catch a cold from its mother?

When someone who is sick coughs, sneezes or talks, he or she might directly spread the virus to your baby. Direct contact. 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.

How to protect baby when mom has a cold?

Wash your hands well and often. Cough or sneeze into a tissue (and then throw it away). Limit close face-to-face contact with your baby.