Breastfeeding While Sick: What Should You Do To Prevent Infection

Choosing to nurse your baby can be a challenging and rewarding decision at the same time.

Not only is it nutritious for your baby and gives them a healthy start to their life, but the bonding benefits are also transformational for both your baby and you.

However, there are times when you will find yourself questioning your decision, especially during the time you are ill.

When I was nursing my firstborn, I was overwhelmed with emotions. Battling PND as a first-time 20-year-old mom while breastfeeding a newborn in a new land with no family support or presence seemed like a recipe for disaster at the time. However, looking back at it 10 years later, it was one of the best decisions I ever made for my baby girl.

One of my biggest fears was breastfeeding while sick. It was my second year in Finland and I was still not used to the freezing dark winters. I constantly had the sniffles and the flu a few times during the winter season. I was worried I might transfer that to my baby.

The first time I was sick was when my baby was 6 weeks old and I had bronchitis, I wore a mask for a week every time I nursed her and allowed fearful thoughts about her baby to control me.

It doesn't have to be that way.

I am here now to tell you that your baby is safe as long as you continue giving love and nourishment to them, they will be alright.

Is it okay to breastfeed while sick?

Yes, when it comes to general illnesses such as the cold and flu, it is okay to continue breastfeeding your baby. Doctors actually advise you to breastfeed to help you heal better and protect your baby against illnesses, as the antibodies in your milk will build your baby’s immune system.

You can continue nursing if you have the common flu, fever, or cold. However, make sure to drink plenty of fluid and rest often to help you recover sooner.

The Effects of Illness While Breastfeeding

Let's have a look at the common sickness that nursing mothers may suffer from and whether that interferes with their ability to nurse.

Mental illness

Doctors advise continuing breastfeeding if you suffer from a mental illness such as OCD or depression.

Make sure you consult your doctor if you are unsure.

Let your doctor know that you are nursing if you decide to take medication, as some antidepressants may transfer to breast milk.

HIV

Doctors recommend stopping breastfeeding and turning to formula as an HIV-positive mom can infect her baby through breast milk.

If you still want your baby to enjoy the benefits of breast milk, you can get donated milk from a nearby trusted milk bank or get a wet nurse to breastfeed your baby.

Mastitis

Despite the aches associated with a mastitis breast infection, doctors advise continuing breastfeeding your baby as it is one of the main ways to treat mastitis.

You can also nurse safely on the infected breast.

Try to get your baby to drain each breast completely after each feed as this will help in healing and avoiding blocked milk ducts.

Food Poisoning

Contrary to belief, you can still breastfeed if you have a slight case of food poisoning, including diarrhea, stomach cramps, and vomiting.

Please make sure to consult your doctor if you are unsure.

STD

You can still nurse your baby safely. Make sure to avoid direct skin-to-skin contact if herpes is present.

PCOS

Although mums with PCOS suffer from many breastfeeding problems such as low milk supply, many nursing mothers do continue nursing successfully.

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About The Author

Noor is a second-year business student at Tredu. She is also studying for Diploma in International Smart Industry at Tampere University. She is passionate about marketing and content creation. She recently launched her YouTube channel specializing in holistic healing.