Is it safe to breastfeed while you have COVID?

Breastfeeding is one of the best things you can do for your baby. Every time you breastfeed, your body produces the exact nutrients your baby needs. When you get sick, you may be concerned about transmission of the disease through milk or just close contact. Learn more about breastfeeding when sick, concerns about COVID-19, and how to minimize any risk.

Can breastfeeding transmit COVID-19?

So far, COVID-19 has not been found in breast milk. This means that your baby is not exposed to COVID-19 through breast milk.

However, your child may still be infected with COVID-19 particles in the air. If you have been diagnosed with COVID-19 and continue to breastfeed, it is important to prevent passing the virus to your baby:

Wash your hands before and after holding your baby.
Wear a mask near your child.
To avoid suffocation, do not wear masks on infants under 2 years of age, even if the child tests positive for COVID-19.
Wash your hands before handling pump parts and sterilize parts between uses.
If possible, let someone else bottle feed the baby to reduce contact until you feel better.

Does breast milk contain antibodies?

Overall, breastfeeding is one of the best ways to prevent your baby from getting sick. Breastfed babies tend to have fewer ear infections, diarrhea, and stomach problems. This is because when you are sick, your body produces antibodies that help fight the disease. These antibodies will be present in your breast milk, giving your baby a chance to develop immunity before he becomes infected.

In fact, your body "reads" your baby's saliva every time you breastfeed. If your child has contracted a virus or other disease, your body will begin to produce antibodies that will help your child fight that particular disease in his body.

Breastfeeding while sick

If you are a breastfeeding mother, a sudden stop can deplete your milk supply. If you are not feeling well enough to breastfeed or express milk, talk to your doctor so they can advise you on a schedule or schedule.

Because your body has to use more energy to fight off illness, it's normal for your breast milk production to decrease when you're sick. It may also decrease if you breastfeed less often or eat or drink less. Once you resume normal breastfeeding, your production may resume. Be sure to stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet during illness and recovery.

Sterilization of breast pumps. If you are sick, especially if you have been diagnosed with COVID-19, be sure to take extra precautions and sterilize all parts of your breast pump at least once a day. A dishwasher with a heated drying cycle can mean you don't have to take extra steps to sterilize. As a general rule, clean all parts with warm soapy water first. Then sterilize the parts by steaming or boiling them. Finally, let the pieces dry completely on a clean towel.

Other considerations related to COVID-19

Know the symptoms. It is easy to be busy and ignore the first signs of illness. Understanding the symptoms of COVID-19 will help you recognize them early and act quickly.

If you have a fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, call your doctor right away. Other identified symptoms of COVID-19 include:

Sore throat
Cluster
Runny nose
Chills
Muscle pain
Headache
Loss of taste or smell
Nausea or vomiting
Diarrhea
Tiredness

Always talk to your doctor or your child's pediatrician if you have any concerns. They can give you advice on how to continue breastfeeding and how to get tested and treated for COVID-19.

Prevent spread. Remember that if you or your child is infected with COVID-19, both of you must self-quarantine. Since you are often in close contact with your child, there is a greater chance that the virus will be spread from person to person.