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When should breastfeeding be avoided?

When Should Breastfeeding Be Avoided?
Breastfeeding is widely recognized as the optimal source of nutrition for infants, particularly during the first six months of life. However, there are specific circumstances and conditions under which breastfeeding may need to be avoided or modified. Understanding these situations is crucial for the health of both the mother and the baby.
Medical Conditions in the Mother
Certain medical conditions can necessitate the cessation of breastfeeding. For instance, if a mother is undergoing treatment for specific illnesses, such as active tuberculosis or HIV, breastfeeding may pose risks to the infant. In such cases, the transmission of pathogens through breast milk can be a significant concern. Additionally, if a mother is taking certain medications that are contraindicated during breastfeeding, she may need to stop nursing temporarily or permanently, depending on the medication’s effects on milk and the infant’s health.
Infant Health Issues
Breastfeeding may also need to be avoided if the infant has specific health issues. For example, infants with galactosemia, a rare genetic disorder that affects the body’s ability to process galactose (a sugar found in breast milk), should not be breastfed. In such cases, specialized formula is necessary to ensure the baby receives adequate nutrition without the harmful effects of breast milk.
Dietary Considerations
Mothers should also be mindful of their diets while breastfeeding. Certain foods and substances can affect breast milk and, consequently, the baby. For instance, excessive alcohol consumption is discouraged, especially during the first month of breastfeeding when establishing a routine. After this period, if a mother chooses to drink, it is recommended to limit intake to one or two standard drinks occasionally. Additionally, some babies may be sensitive to foods that the mother consumes, such as dairy or caffeine, which can lead to digestive issues or irritability in the infant. If a mother notices adverse reactions in her baby, she may need to eliminate these foods from her diet.
Lifestyle Factors
Lifestyle choices can also impact breastfeeding. For example, smoking is detrimental not only to the mother’s health but also to the quality of breast milk. Nicotine and other harmful substances can pass into breast milk, potentially affecting the infant’s development and health. Therefore, mothers who smoke are often advised to seek support to quit, both for their own health and for the well-being of their child.
Conclusion
While breastfeeding is generally encouraged for its numerous health benefits, there are specific situations where it may need to be avoided. Mothers should consult healthcare professionals to navigate these challenges effectively, ensuring that both their health and their baby’s health are prioritized. By being aware of medical conditions, dietary impacts, and lifestyle choices, mothers can make informed decisions about breastfeeding that best suit their circumstances.

What is the 3 month breastfeeding crisis?

These increases occur around the same time for all babies, hence the term “3-months breastfeeding crisis”. This crisis is the most well-known because it is the most challenging for mothers. One reason is that this crisis, unlike others you may experience before, can last up to a month.

What is the golden rule of breastfeeding?

Maintain a minimum of 2 to 3 feeds per day
Taking into account the principle of lactation (the more the breast is solicited, the more milk the body produces), it is advisable to continue to give your baby at least 2 to 3 feedings per day.

When is breastfeeding not recommended?

Mothers infected with human T-cell lymphotropic virus type I or type II should not breast feed their babies. Mothers who are taking illegal drugs like cocaine, PCP, heroin, marijuana etc. are not allowed to breastfeed their babies. This is because these agents can affect the baby and cause serious side effects.

When to avoid breastfeeding a baby?

The World Health Organization recommends that all babies be exclusively breastfed for 6 months, then gradually introduced to appropriate foods after 6 months while continuing to breastfeed for 2 years or beyond. Stopping breastfeeding is called weaning. It is up to you and your baby to decide when the time is right.

When is breastfeeding no longer beneficial?

Breastmilk or infant formula should be your baby’s main source of nutrition for around the first year of life. Health professionals recommend exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months, with a gradual introduction of appropriate foods in the second 6 months and ongoing breastfeeding for 2 years or beyond.

When a mother is breastfeeding, she should avoid?

Avoiding certain foods, such as garlic, onions or cabbage, might help. Remember, there’s no need to go on a special diet while you’re breastfeeding. Simply focus on making healthy choices — and you and your baby will reap the rewards.

Under which conditions should breastfeeding be avoided?

The only true contraindications to breastfeeding are the following: Infants with classic galactosemia (galactose 1-phosphate uridyltransferase deficiency) Mothers, in the US, who are infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), untreated brucellosis, or suspected or confirmed Ebola virus disease.

At what age is it unhealthy to breastfeed?

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that mothers feed their babies only breast milk for six months and continue breastfeeding for at least one year. After that, it really depends on how long the mother and child want to continue.

Why avoid strawberries while breastfeeding?

A quart or more of orange juice or a diet heavy in seasonal fruits such as strawberries, melons or cherries have been associated with diarrhea and colicky symptoms in some infants. Foods containing many preservatives, additives or dyes have been associated with signs of discomfort in some babies.

When is breast milk no longer beneficial?

Breastmilk contains all the nourishment needed to promote normal healthy growth and development in babies in their first 6 months of life and remains the most important food during their first year. Solids during your baby’s first year complement breastmilk and do not replace breastfeeds.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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