Breastfeeding with MRSA

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a type of bacteria that is resistant to several antibiotics. It can cause infections in different parts of the body, including the skin, lungs, and blood. MRSA is particularly concerning because it's harder to treat than most strains of Staphylococcus aureus.

Can I breastfeed with MRSA?

Yes, you can breastfeed with MRSA. Breastfeeding is encouraged because of its numerous health benefits for both mama and baby. However, it's important to take specific precautions to prevent the spread of MRSA to your baby. Baby’

If you have a MRSA infection with open sores on your breasts or nipples, direct breastfeeding may need to be temporarily modified under the guidance of healthcare professionals, including an IBCLC.

Precautions and management:

• Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after touching your breasts or your baby.
• Cover infected areas: If you have a MRSA infection on a part of your body other than your breasts, keep it covered with a clean, dry bandage.
• Pump safely: If you have MRSA on your breasts or nipples, you may be advised to pump your breast milk to maintain supply and prevent direct contact. Use a dedicated breast pump, and follow strict cleaning procedures for all pump parts.

Common questions and answers

• Q: Will MRSA affect my breast milk?
  • A: MRSA does not affect the quality of your breast milk. The infection is in the skin, not the milk. You can continue to provide breast milk to your baby, which is beneficial for their development and immunity.
• Q: What if my baby has MRSA?
  • A: If your baby has MRSA, continue breastfeeding, but take all necessary precautions to prevent the spread. Consult your healthcare provider for specific advice on handling your baby's condition while breastfeeding.
• Q: Can expressing breast milk spread MRSA?
  • A: Expressing breast milk itself does not spread MRSA. However, improper handling of breast milk, breast pumps, and containers can introduce bacteria into the milk. Always follow proper breast pump cleaning guidelines.
• Q: How can I prevent spreading MRSA to my baby?
  • A: Maintain good hand hygiene, cover any open wounds, and follow healthcare advice on wound care and breastfeeding practices. Consult with an IBCLC for personalized guidance.
• Q: Are my medications to treat MRSA safe while breastfeeding
  • A: Many of the antibiotics and medications used to treat MRSA are compatible with breastfeeding. Consult with an IBCLC to check with your specific medications. The resource Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed®) – NCBI Bookshelf (nih.gov) may be helpful to you and your medical team.

When to seek medical advice

• If you or your baby develop signs of an infection, such as redness, swelling, warmth, or pus at a wound site, or if you have concerns about breastfeeding with MRSA, it's important to seek medical advice promptly.
• If breastfeeding becomes painful or if you're struggling with milk expression, seeking the help of an IBCLC can provide you with the support and strategies needed to continue breastfeeding safely.

Breastfeeding-related issues:

Breastfeeding with MRSA may also bring up concerns about other infections or conditions related to breastfeeding, such as mastitis or thrush. It's important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of these conditions as well, as they can impact breastfeeding.

How we can help

As IBCLCs, we are here to support you through your breastfeeding journey, even with challenges like MRSA. We can offer personalized advice on how to safely breastfeed or express milk to ensure your baby gets the benefits of breast milk while minimizing the risk of MRSA transmission. We can also provide guidance on maintaining your milk supply, managing any pain during breastfeeding, and ensuring your baby is latching properly to prevent additional complications.

Breastfeeding with MRSA requires careful management, but with the right precautions and support, you can continue to provide your baby with the best start in life. Remember, you're not alone in this journey, and help is available whenever you need it.

Sources

• https://www.infantrisk.com/content/breastfeeding-mothers-who-are-carriers-staphylococcus-aureus
• https://internationalbreastfeedingjournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13006-021-00429-6
• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19698015/
• http://mrsaactionuk.net/babiesandmrsa.html
• https://www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding/breastfeeding-special-circumstances/maternal-or-infant-illnesses/mrsa.html