Introduction
Being sick is tough for new moms. They do not get enough time to rest and recover, and they cannot take a day off, as parental obligations are 24/7. In such cases, the mother's illness is the least of concerns. There are more chances of new moms being worried for the newborn than themselves.
Is It Safe to Breastfeed While the Mothers Are Sick?
Yes, it is definitely safe for a mother to breastfeed while she is sick. In most cases, it is safe and advised to continue breastfeeding. This is actually good for a baby, it is safe to breastfeed. When the mother is ill, the body creates antibodies in the breast milk, and this milk can get immense benefits for the child. As the child directly receives antibodies from the mother, that helps them to fight against the illness and prevent them from getting it even after exposure. Though there are some exceptions to some particular illnesses one can get. Here are some conditions that could affect the child:
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Cold and Flu: Normal breastfeeding can be done if the mother has a cold or flu. The infant will not catch infection through breast milk but actually gain protection. This milk provides essential antibodies against flu and cold and protects the baby against infection. If the mother feels exhausted from feeding, she can also pump the milk or give a supplement.
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Stomach Viruses: In cases of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and other uncomfortable symptoms, the viruses cannot pass through the breast milk. In fact, breastfeeding babies can have a decreased risk of gastrointestinal infections. If one chooses to breastfeed while ill with a stomach virus, they should make sure to eat and rest when they can and take enough extra fluids.
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Coronavirus and COVID-19: This condition is still under research. A lot of unknowns are present surrounding the transmission of the novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19. Early research suggests that this virus is not transmitted through breast milk. It is found that antibodies found in breast milk can provide infants with passive immunity to COVID-19 through breastfeeding alone. Antibodies found in breast milk may be cross-reactive and can fight off components of the SARS-CoV-2 virus and result from breastfeeding parent exposure or other types of coronavirus or influenza virus.
Conditions, where the mother should not breastfeed at all, are if they are diagnosed with a T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1 or 2, ebola virus, or human immunodeficiency virus.
Can Being Sick Negatively Impact Breastfeeding?
Being sick can definitely impact the milk supply and its production for numerous reasons. The infected mother tends to become dehydrated quickly, and a lack of fluids can cause the supply to decrease. Mothers tend to feed less frequently, and the lack of demand can cause output to drop. The medications taken while sick can also greatly impact the milk supply. For example, antihistamines can cause milk to dry up. This period of being ill can decrease milk supply, so it is important to keep a normal feeding schedule, and in cases where the mothers are tired to feed, they can at least pump often to maintain their milk supply. Some medications can also impact the infant by making them feel drowsy, or babies are prone to loose motion and diarrhea, as these medications can pass through milk. Consulting a provider before taking any medications while breastfeeding is important to minimize the effect on newborns.
Can a Mother Breastfeed While the Baby Feels Sick?
It is a yes. Breastfeeding a sick baby can actually increase the chance of speedy recovery and help comfort them. Breast milk contains antibodies, white blood cells and stem cells, and proactive enzymes that fight infections and help with faster healing and recovery. It has a constantly adjusting balance of vitamins and nutrients that support better recovery. The composition of the breastmilk changes when the baby is ill. When mothers get exposed to bacterial and viral infections, the body makes antibodies, which are transferred to the baby through milk. The immunity-boosting cells called leukocytes increase rapidly when the baby is unwell. Breast milk is an ideal food for babies as it is easy to digest when the baby has upset tummies.
Can Breastfeeding Be Stopped for a While and Started Again?
Relactation is possible. Relactation is when breastfeeding is started after it is stopped for some days or weeks. Breastfeeding is a supply-and-demand process that requires stimulation of the nipple and the removal of milk from the breast. Relactating or reestablishing milk production by pumping, hand expressing, or nursing can directly help. Breastfeeding shows interest, and holding the baby skin to skin very often can help to stimulate breastfeeding. Milk production, once started again, should continue to be expressed, and nurses often build a good milk supply. Relactation depends on many factors, and regular help from lactation support is important. A well-trained lactation support provider can help and support the mother.
What Are the Steps to Follow Before Breastfeeding While Sick?
If mothers choose to breastfeed while sick, they should follow general hygiene. Wash hands regularly, mainly before feeding. In case of cough or sneeze, one should use a tissue or crook of the elbow so that the spread of infection in air droplets is reduced. Drink enough fluids and consume extra nutrients to meet your needs. Disinfect all the products that may come in contact with the infected person, the baby, or the breast. Wear a mask if required. One may also use a sanitizer on hand in some cases. Take enough rest whenever possible.
Conclusion
Though breastfeeding is recommended while sick, and in other cases, one needs to take a break as they may feel tired and lousy. Taking enough rest and taking enough fluids and nutrients is much more important. The extra boost an infant receives from breast milk during ill conditions is an amazing gift from mothers as they pass antibodies to the babies.
