Motherhood is a journey that can be the most beautiful and challenging phase in a woman’s life. Right from being a fetus to a fully grown baby, a child needs the warmth, care, and attention of a mother for its well-being and the life ahead. Motherhood is a phase where never-ending questions and concerns arise, especially when it comes to the health and well-being of the little one. One prior concern many nursing mothers face is whether it is safe for a mother to breastfeed a baby when sick.

It’s not easy when you feel under the weather as you may wonder if you would be able to give your baby the right nourishment when you’re unwell. But here’s the good news for all the moms! It is safe to continue breastfeeding when you’re unwell.

Here’s what you need to know about breastfeeding while being sick.

Breast milk is considered to be one of the most vital sources of nourishment for a baby as it has antibodies, enzymes, and immune-boosting properties that will protect your little one from falling sick. When you fall sick, your body produces antibodies to combat the illness, and these antibodies are passed on to your baby through breast milk.

Illness Doesn’t Pass Through Breast Milk

Breastfeeding a baby when you catch a cold or the flu is normal and it will not harm your little one. It’s good because it acts as a shield for the baby from other illnesses. If you feel out of energy and exhausted you can pump breast milk.

Take Your Medications

Ensuring the safety of both you and your baby while breastfeeding is paramount. Always talk to a healthcare professional about your breastfeeding status, carefully review the instructions for any over-the-counter medications you purchase, and be open to potential adjustments in terms of timing, dosage, or alternative forms of medication if necessary. Additionally, don’t forget to inform your baby’s healthcare professional about any medications you are currently using.

Being Sick May Impact Milk Supply

If you’re not nursing or pumping as much as you typically would because you’re not feeling well, it may impact your milk supply. However, a decrease in your milk supply is unlikely to last forever. Being ill for a few days is only a little hiccup in the long nursing journey, so keep breastfeeding if you’re able to and pump as frequently as you can.

What about COVID-19?

The world of illness underwent a significant transformation with the outbreak of COVID-19. In the beginning, there was considerable debate about whether it was safe for a mother who had caught the illness to nurse her child. The good news is that further research is largely in favor of carrying on with breastfeeding while taking the essential safety measures. CDC states that you can still give your infant breast milk if you have COVID-19.

Practice Good Hygiene

Mothers should thoroughly wash their hands with soap and water before expressing breast milk, and if using a pump, they should clean it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. And not just hand hygiene, with any respiratory ailment, it is advised that anyone over the age of 2 who is showing symptoms or has tested positive for any respiratory infection wear a face mask over their nose and mouth for the length of the visit with a baby.

Your health and your infant’s health will always be in good hands provided you take great precautions and talk to your healthcare professionals about your concerns. Rest assured your body’s ability to adapt and protect your baby through breastfeeding remains a powerful asset even when you’re not feeling your best. By taking necessary precautions, you can continue to nurture and nourish your little ones, offering them comfort and protection during challenging times.