Can I breastfeed when I'm sick?

I am often asked if you can breastfeed when you are sick. The short answer is yes. You can breastfeed when you are sick. The many beneficial effects of breastfeeding do not disappear (read the benefits of breastfeeding here ). On the contrary, antibodies are formed in your body which are secreted into the breast milk, thereby protecting the baby against your illness.

That said, babies can still get infected, as most illnesses today are caused by viruses that are spread by contact, sneezing, coughing or through the air. However, we know from studies that babies who are breastfed get sick less often and for a shorter period of time than babies who are formula-fed.

Siblings can also be infected

If you have several children at home, it is often seen that they come home with the flu, diarrhea or other things that can be contagious. Good hand hygiene is important here. It is a good habit to go out and wash your hands when you come home from, for example, daycare or preschool. Hand washing is preferable to hand sanitizer, as hand sanitizer often prevents the important portion of bacteria that we want to be exposed to - both as children and adults.

The saying “nothing is so bad that it’s not good for something” applies here. Because when older siblings come home with various infections, the baby’s immune system is boosted and will thus be more resilient when the time comes for your youngest child to go to, for example, nursery or kindergarten.

Caring for someone who is sick while breastfeeding

When you are sick, it is always important to slow down, maybe even take a few days in bed, and nourish yourself with the right food and drink. Feel free to ask for support and help. This is especially important when you are breastfeeding. If you do not get enough sleep and rest, as well as fluids and proper food, it can significantly affect your milk production. A slightly reduced milk production during your illness is not abnormal. This is because the body is working extra hard to fight the disease.

For example, if you have a fever and find it difficult to eat real food, a cold smoothie can be good. A little fruit and some toast or porridge with various toppings can also be recommended. And fluids should be a real priority. Maybe juice or smoothies are good for you if you have the flu, for example. When you are sick, the advice is: What ever works . Because fluid is important!

If you can handle it, lying skin-to-skin with your baby will boost your milk supply. Some mothers find it safe and comfortable to lie close to their baby during illness. Others don't - you should go with what feels right for you.

Significantly reduced milk production

If you are completely down with, for example, a fever and your milk production drops significantly, you should consider whether it makes sense to supplement with breast milk formula. It is important to continue breastfeeding every time your baby shows signs of illness. And then you can supplement with a bottle. As soon as you are well again, your milk production can be boosted by lots of skin-to-skin contact, frequent breastfeeding and nutritious food and drink, as well as continued plenty of rest for yourself. You may also find it helpful to use a breast pump to stimulate milk production. It is normal for it to take a few days to get your milk production back up. Try to be patient with yourself - your body is doing so well! And I am rooting for you!

Need for medication

Common viral infections rarely require medical treatment. If you become ill with something that requires medication, remember to mention to your doctor that you are breastfeeding. He or she will then find a preparation that can be used during breastfeeding. Only very rarely is a shorter or complete cessation of breastfeeding required due to illness and medication. In this case, your doctor will guide you.

All medications are excreted in breast milk. That's why I'm not one to recommend regular painkillers unless it's absolutely necessary. If you're taking antibiotics, I'd recommend that both you and your baby take a round of probiotics to nourish your gut after the penicillin course. Health food stores can help you choose which ones for your child.

Dear, I wish you a speedy recovery from your illness - and continued good breastfeeding!