Breastfeeding with COVID-19

COVID-19 is a respiratory illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and include fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. For breastfeeding moms, the primary concern is the potential transmission of the virus to the baby and how the illness might affect breastfeeding practices.

Can I breastfeed if I have COVID-19?

Yes, you can. Health organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO), recommend continuing to breastfeed even if you are infected with COVID-19. COVID-19 infection does not pass through breastmilk, but through respiratory droplets. Breast milk provides essential nutrients and antibodies that can help protect your baby from the infection. However, you should follow safety guidelines to minimize the risk of transmitting the virus to your baby.

Precautions while breastfeeding with COVID-19:

• Wear a mask: Wear a mask when near your baby, especially during breastfeeding, to reduce the risk of spreading the virus through respiratory droplets.
• Practice hand hygiene: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before touching your baby, breast pump, or bottles.
• Clean and disinfect surfaces: Regularly clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that you and your baby come into contact with.
• Consider pumping breast milk: If you're feeling too ill to breastfeed, consider pumping and having a healthy caregiver feed your expressed milk to your baby.

Symptoms to watch for in your baby:

If you have COVID-19 and are breastfeeding, it's important to monitor your baby for any signs of illness, such as fever, cough, or difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these symptoms in your baby, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

If baby develops symptoms or tests positive for COVID-19, know that the infection may decrease their appetite. Continue offering the breast frequently (even if it’s just short frequent sessions), as the antibodies, immune factors, nutrients, and hydration that comes with breastmilk is particularly beneficial when baby is sick. Some mothers may need to pump during this time to keep their milk supply up if baby isn’t eating the same volume as usual.

Do not place a mask on baby or anyone under 2 years old as this poses a suffocation hazard.

When to seek medical advice:

• If your symptoms are severe or worsening, seek medical care promptly.
• If your baby shows any signs of COVID-19 or other illness, get in touch with your pediatrician.

Breastfeeding-related issues

Mastitis: Mamas with COVID-19 might be more vulnerable to developing mastitis, an inflammation of breast tissue that can cause redness, pain, swelling, and fever. Ensure proper breast emptying and maintain good hygiene. If you notice these symptoms around your breast, reach out to your health care provider.

Breastfeeding challenges: COVID-19 symptoms like fatigue and fever can make breastfeeding more challenging. Stay hydrated, rest as much as possible, and don't hesitate to ask for help with feeding and caring for your baby.

Mental health: It's common to feel anxious or stressed while breastfeeding with COVID-19. Reach out to support groups, a mental health professional, or an IBCLC for support.

IBCLC-specific advice:

• Keep your baby close to promote skin-to-skin contact, which can support breastfeeding and enhance your baby's immune system.
• If you're struggling with breastfeeding, consider consulting with an IBCLC remotely. They can provide personalized advice and support to navigate breastfeeding during illness.

Remember, every mom's situation is unique, and what works best for one may not work for another. It's important to consult with healthcare providers to make informed decisions about breastfeeding with COVID-19. Stay informed, take precautions, and seek support when needed to ensure the health and well-being of both you and your baby.

If you have other questions about COVID-19 and breastfeeding, you might find these articles helpful:

1. COVID-19 and Breastfeeding | Breastfeeding | CDC
2. Breastfeeding with Coronavirus | Johns Hopkins Medicine
3. Breastfeeding and COVID-19 (who.int)

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Sources

• CDC. (2021, March 25). Covid-19 and breastfeeding. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding/breastfeeding-special-circumstances/maternal-or-infant-illnesses/covid-19-and-breastfeeding.html
• Pérez-Bermejo M, Peris-Ochando B, Murillo-Llorente MT. COVID-19: Relationship and Impact on Breastfeeding-A Systematic Review. Nutrients. 2021 Aug 26;13(9):2972. doi: 10.3390/nu13092972. PMID: 34578848; PMCID: PMC8470649.