What to take for a stomach bug while breastfeeding?

Understanding Stomach Bugs While Breastfeeding
When a breastfeeding mother contracts a stomach bug, commonly referred to as gastroenteritis or the stomach flu, it raises several concerns about her health and the well-being of her baby. Fortunately, breastfeeding can continue during this time, and it may even provide protective benefits for the infant.
Breastfeeding Benefits During Illness
Continuing to breastfeed while experiencing a stomach bug is not only safe but also beneficial. Breast milk contains antibodies that can help bolster the baby’s immune system, potentially protecting them from the illness the mother is facing. This is particularly important as the mother’s body produces specific antibodies in response to the pathogens she encounters, which are then passed to the baby through her milk.
Moreover, breast milk is considered a “clear fluid,” making it the ideal source of hydration for infants, especially those under six months old who should not be given anything else. For older babies, continuing breastfeeding can help maintain their hydration and nutrition during the mother’s illness.
Managing Symptoms and Medications
While breastfeeding, mothers may experience symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. It’s crucial to manage these symptoms effectively without compromising milk supply or the baby’s health.
Medications to Consider
For symptom relief, certain medications are deemed safe for breastfeeding mothers. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil) are generally approved for use during breastfeeding and can help alleviate pain and fever. However, caution is advised with other medications. For instance, some allergy medications like Benadryl may reduce milk supply and could cause drowsiness in the baby.
Hydration and Nutrition
Staying hydrated is essential for recovery. Mothers should focus on drinking plenty of fluids, such as water, broth, and electrolyte solutions, to replenish lost fluids. Eating light, easily digestible foods can also aid in recovery. However, if nausea is severe, it may be challenging to maintain a regular diet.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While most cases of stomach bugs resolve on their own, mothers should consult a healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Signs that warrant medical attention include severe dehydration, high fever, or blood in vomit or stool. It’s also important to monitor the baby’s health, as any signs of illness in the infant should be addressed promptly.
In conclusion, breastfeeding during a stomach bug is not only safe but can also provide significant benefits to the baby. By managing symptoms with appropriate medications and maintaining hydration, mothers can continue to nurture their infants while recovering from illness.

What is the quickest way to get rid of a stomach bug baby?

You can treat stomach bugs at home by making sure your child keeps drinking fluids and gets plenty of rest. The best way to keep your child well hydrated is with an electrolyte-containing solution such as Pedialyte®. Have your child take small sips frequently — meaning every five minutes or so — throughout the day.

What can I take to settle my stomach while breastfeeding?

Medicines to treat gas and bloating, such as Gas-X, Maalox, Mylanta, and others, are safe to take while breastfeeding. They contain simethicone, which is sometimes given to infants. It is also not absorbed into the mother’s system, so wouldn’t be transmitted in breast milk.

What can breastfeeding moms take for a stomach bug?

Some people are prescribed (or buy) prochlorperazine (Buccastem ®, Stemetil ®) tablets to relieve the nausea and vomiting, loperamide (Imodium®) to reduce the symptoms of diarrhoea and rehydrating sachets (Dioralyte ®) to prevent dehydration. These drugs are suitable to take and carry on breastfeeding as normal.

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.

What are the stages of the stomach bug?

The stages of stomach flu infection are:

• Exposure. You’re most likely to get the stomach flu from someone in your community, especially in a closed environment like a school, nursing home or cruise ship.
• Incubation. Once you’ve contracted the virus, it’ll begin replicating inside your body.
• Acute infection.
• Recovery.

What to take for an upset stomach while breastfeeding?

Heartburn / Indigestion

• Mylanta.
• TUMS.
• Pepcid.
• Maalox.
• Gavison.
• Pepto Bismol.

What can flush out a stomach virus?

Try sucking on ice chips or taking small sips of water often. You might also try drinking clear soda, clear broths or noncaffeinated sports drinks. In some cases you can try oral rehydration solutions. Drink plenty of liquid every day, taking small, frequent sips.

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 food kills stomach viruses?

Consuming certain foods and drinks may help a person with viral gastroenteritis, or stomach flu, recover or manage symptoms. When ready for food, a person can eat bland foods such as bread, bananas, applesauce, and cooked starches. It is best to avoid fatty foods, spicy foods, alcohol, and sugary beverages.

What can I take if I’m sick while breastfeeding?

Only a miniscule amount of ibuprofen or acetaminophen transfers to breastmilk, making these meds first-choice options for fever and headache while breastfeeding.