Can I still breastfeed my baby when I'm sick?
Yes! In most cases, it is safe and recommended to continue breastfeeding your baby through an illness. HIV or Ebola Virus Disease are a couple of exceptions. Speak with your doctor, as these are circumstances when breastfeeding is not recommended.
Breast Milk Boosts Your Baby's Immunity
When you are sick your body produces antibodies to help fight the illness. These antibodies are shared with your baby through your breast milk, which means your breast milk helps keep your baby healthy! Along with helpful antibodies, breast milk contains the complete nutrition that your baby needs to strengthen his/her immune system.
Milk Supply
When a breastfeeding mom gets sick, it is normal to experience a temporary dip in milk supply. This is because a lot of her energy goes toward healing instead of toward milk production. If you are concerned, track diaper output. Take really good care of yourself and get plenty of rest and fluids. Keep nursing on demand, using both breasts. Your milk supply will rebound!
Medications
Not all medications pass through breast milk, but it is important to check the safety of all over-the-counter or prescribed medications with your doctor before taking them. If your doctor agrees that it is still safe to breastfeed during your illness, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly before handling your baby, your breasts, bottles, and pump parts. Be sure to follow any additional safety precautions your doctor recommends.
When Baby is Sick
If your baby is fighting an illness, your immune system recognizes the virus or bacteria through your baby’s saliva when your baby latches to the breast. Your body, in turn, produces antibodies for the virus or bacteria, which are passed to your baby through your breast milk. This process of making made-to-order antibodies only takes about 20 minutes from the time your baby’s saliva enters your breast!