Can I take more potent flu medications while breastfeeding?

Question

Hello doctor,

My 6-month-old baby girl got the flu last week, and now I am sick too, but way worse than her. She is already getting better, but my fever spiked to 103.8 yesterday, and I am still breastfeeding, which makes everything so much harder. The pediatrician gave her Tamiflu but said I should see my doctor about getting treatment for the flu myself.

My whole body aches, and I can barely lift my head off the pillow, but the baby still needs to eat every two to three hours. Tried Tylenol and Ibuprofen, but the fever keeps coming back, and I am so weak I almost fainted while changing her diaper this morning. My husband had to take time off work to help, but he might be getting sick now, too.

Worried about passing more flu germs to the baby through breast milk, even though she already had it. Also scared because I read pregnant women and new moms can get really serious complications from the flu.

Should I stop breastfeeding until I am better? Can I take stronger flu medications while nursing?

Please help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

Thank you for reaching out, and I am truly sorry you are going through this while also caring for your baby. It is incredibly tough being unwell yourself while trying to nurse and look after your child.

Let me guide you through this step by step:

1. Yes, you can and should continue breastfeeding. The flu virus does not pass through breast milk. Your milk contains protective antibodies that may help your baby fight off the infection or prevent reinfection. Since your baby already had the flu and is recovering, your milk may boost her immunity further.

Just ensure:

Try to wear a mask while feeding.
Try to wash your hands thoroughly and frequently before touching her and feeding her.
Cough and sneeze into your elbow, away from your baby.

2. A high fever, body aches, and severe fatigue are common flu symptoms, but they are made worse by sleep deprivation, hormonal changes, and the energy demands of breastfeeding. You have also likely become dehydrated, which can worsen weakness and dizziness.

Make sure you:

Drink plenty of clear fluids (water, soup, etc.).
Rest as much as possible; your husband stepping in is very helpful and important too.
Monitor for warning signs like shortness of breath, chest pain, confusion, or persistent high fever.

3. You can take stronger flu medication while breastfeeding, but only under medical supervision.

Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) is generally considered safe during breastfeeding. The amount that passes into breast milk is minimal and not harmful to the infant. Since your pediatrician prescribed it to your baby, it’s very likely safe for you too, but please consult your physician first before starting it.

In the meantime, it is okay to:

Continue Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and Ibuprofen in recommended doses.
Avoid over-the-counter decongestants or multi-symptom cold medications, as some may reduce milk supply or are not safe during lactation.

Please see a doctor immediately if you notice:

Difficulty breathing.
Persistent chest pain or pressure.
Severe dizziness or confusion.
Vomiting that prevents fluid intake.
Decreased urine output (sign of dehydration).
These are signs of flu complications, especially important to watch in postpartum women.

A few practical tips:

Try breastfeeding in a reclined position, so you can rest while feeding.
Consider using a breast pump occasionally to allow others to help feed while you rest.
Use a cool compress or tepid sponge bath to reduce fever temporarily.

You are doing a remarkable job despite how sick you feel, and it is okay to ask for all the help you can right now. Once you consult your physician, antiviral treatment may help speed up your recovery and allow you to continue caring for your baby safely.

I hope this information will help you.

Kindly follow up if you have more concerns.