It's cold and flu season again! When illness strikes your household, it's natural to have questions about breastfeeding. Can you continue breastfeeding if you are sick? What if your baby is sick and struggling to feed? Let's break it down.
Can You Breastfeed When You're Sick?
Good news! In most cases, you can breastfeed while sick, and it's often encouraged. Common colds, the flu, and even COVID-19, are not transmitted through breastmilk. However, antibodies are - meaning your breastmilk can offer extra protection to your baby.
Your baby has already been exposed to your illness (likely before your symptoms even showed up), but breastmilk delivers targeted antibodies to help fight off those same germs. In fact, I've seen families (my own included!) where everyone got sick except for the baby, thanks to the immune support from breastmilk.
Breastmilk is a powerhouse for supporting your baby’s immune system! It contains large quantities of a specific type of antibody called immunoglobulin A (IgA), which coats your baby's digestive tract and prevents viruses and bacteria from entering their bloodstream. Breastmilk also contains other immune-boosting proteins like lactoferrin and interleukin, as well as prebiotics and probiotics that support a healthy gut microbiome - essential for fighting off illness.
Taking Care of Yourself When You're Sick
When you're sick and still caring for your baby, it's important to give yourself some extra TLC. Staying hydrated is key - keep water, tea, broth, coconut water, or electrolyte drinks within arm's reach while you're nursing. If you're nauseous, take small sips of fluids as often as you can tolerate. Warm drinks can be especially soothing if you're dealing with congestion or a sore throat. Focus on consuming foods or beverages that are nutrient-dense. Rest as much as possible (easier said than done, I know!), and don't hesitate to ask for help from family or friends so you can focus on recovery.
You may experience a dip in milk supply while you are sick, especially if the illness has made it harder to stick to your regular feeding or pumping routine, or if you are dehydrated. Don't panic! This is usually temporary and will likely resolve once you are healthy and back to your usual feeding or pumping routine.
Be sure to wash your hands frequently - especially before handling your baby or any feeding equipment - to help prevent the spread of germs. Extra hand washing is a simple but effective way to protect your little one while you're both navigating sickness.
Before cold and flu season ramps up, consider stocking up on comfort items like tissues, medications or supplements, beverages, easy-to-prepare snacks, soups, and freezer meals. Having these essentials on hand can make a big difference when you're under the weather and still need to keep up with your little one.
💊Breastfeeding During Illness Top Tip:
Always check that any medications you take are compatible with breastfeeding. Some common medications, such as decongestants like Sudafed, can reduce your milk supply.
The Infant Risk Center offers valuable resources for checking medication safety, including the MommyMeds App - a searchable database that provides up-to-date information on the safety of over-the-counter and prescription medications.
What If Your Baby Is Sick?
If your baby is sick, breastfeeding is one of the best things you can do to support their recovery. Not only does breastmilk provided essential nutrients, but it also offers all those amazing antibodies. In fact, a 2020 study found that breastfed babies experienced less severe symptoms of RSV (read the study here).
That said, feeding can be tricky when a baby is congested. Here are a few tips to help your baby nurse more comfortably:
Try nursing in an upright position: this can make it easier for them to breathe while feeding.
Use a humidifier or take the baby into a steamy bathroom to help clear nasal congestion.
Try nasal saline drops and a suction device like a bulb syringe or NoseFrida to clear their nose. Be careful not to overuse these, as it can lead to swelling in the nose, making the situation worse. For more information on using a nasal suction device, check out the articles below:
Stay Healthy This Season!
Breastfeeding during cold and flu season offers a great way to protect your baby and provide them with comfort and nutrition, even when illness hits.
If you have any questions about breastfeeding during illness, don't hesitate to reach out!
