When you're sick, it can be tough to keep up with the demands of breastfeeding. It's not uncommon to see milk supply drop when sick. But don't worry, this doesn't mean you have to stop feeding your baby. This article will discuss whether it is safe to nurse when you're ill, how best to support your milk supply during times of illness, and how to keep your baby healthy, too. We’ll also answer some common questions regarding what happens to your breast milk supply when you're fighting an illness.
Does Being Sick Decrease Milk Supply?
Yes, being sick can indeed lead to a sudden decrease in milk supply. If one is sick, the body uses much of its energy to fight off the infection and get well again, which impacts breast milk production. Additionally, common sickness factors—like dehydration, fatigue, and stress—all have their roles in the milk supply drop while sick.
This reduction often is temporary. Although your body's response to being sick may cause breast milk decreasing, good hydration, proper nutrition, and continued nursing or pumping can help counteract these effects. Also, be aware that some medications prescribed during an illness may impact milk supply, so make sure to discuss breastfeeding-safe treatment options with a healthcare provider.
In addition, hormonal changes that occur when you are stressed—which you may well be if you are not feeling well—can impact the milk let-down reflex, making it more difficult. Resting as much as you can, keeping hydrated, and reaching out to others to support you all can help minimize these setbacks. Even with the temporary drop that is common in many mothers, most continue to have enough milk as long as breastfeeding or pumping continues.
Can I Continue to Feed My Baby While Being Sick?
Yes, in most cases, it is safe to continue feeding your baby while you are sick. Breast milk isn't just a source of nutrition; it's also packed with antibodies that help protect your baby from getting the same illness. When you're fighting off a bug, your body makes specific antibodies to combat that illness, and these get passed directly to your baby through your breast milk.
There are, however, some infectious diseases that could be risks when breastfeeding. One of these is the possibility that HIV may be transferred from mother to infant, as well as other viruses excreted into breast milk. Common illnesses such as the flu, colds, or stomach viruses will not affect your ability to continue providing safe breast milk to your baby.
How Can I Avoid Milk Supply Decrease While Being Sick?
1. Keep Your Milk Flowing
To keep your milk supply steady when you or your baby are ill, it's crucial to empty your breasts often. Stick to a consistent nursing or pumping schedule, allowing your little one to feed as much as they want. If they're eating less and you're feeling engorged, pump after feedings to relieve fullness. You can store the expressed milk for later use, ensuring your supply remains robust for your baby's return to routine feeding.
2. Maintain Your Nursing Routine
Even if you're feeling under the weather, try to keep breastfeeding or pumping as close to your regular routine as possible. Regular nursing or pumping signals your body to continue producing milk. If you feel too sick to breastfeed, use a pump to maintain your milk supply and provide milk for someone else to feed your baby.
3. Rest as Much as Possible
Rest is crucial for recovery and maintaining a healthy milk supply. When you rest, your body can focus energy on milk production rather than just getting through the day. Take naps with your baby, go to bed early, and ask for help with household chores and other children if possible.
4. Stay Hydrated
Your body needs more fluids when you're sick, especially if you have a fever or are experiencing vomiting or diarrhea. Dehydration can quickly lead to a milk supply decrease when sick. Make sure to drink plenty of water, herbal teas, or electrolyte-replenishing beverages to stay hydrated.
5. Eat Nutritious Foods
A balanced diet helps sustain your milk supply. Focus on whole foods rich in vitamins and minerals. Include protein-rich foods, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and foods high in vitamin C to boost your immune system.
6. Keep Calm and Carry On
Stress can hinder milk production, so finding ways to relax is important. Gentle activities like reading, meditating, or deep-breathing exercises can reduce stress levels. Seek support from family and friends to lighten your load.
How Do I Prevent Getting My Baby Sick?
1. Wash Hands
The simplest yet most effective way to prevent the spread of germs is by washing your hands regularly. Make it a habit to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before touching your baby, handling breast pump parts, or preparing bottles.
2. Use Masks to Protect Your Baby
If you have a cold, the flu, or another respiratory illness, wearing a mask can greatly reduce the risk of transmitting airborne pathogens to your baby. It's especially crucial when coughing or sneezing, as these actions can propel germs into the air.
3. Use a Breast Pump
Does being sick decrease milk supply? It can. If you’re too unwell to nurse, Momcozy Mobile Flow™ Hands-Free Breast Pump is here to support you. Using a breast pump instead of breastfeeding can avoid direct contact with your baby and infection. This pump is electric and you can wear it without using your hands, so you can easily move about or relax without being tied down. It's simple to use, too—just tap on the app to adjust the settings for a comfortable pumping session that suits how you're feeling. With powerful -300mmHg suction, you get quick and effective milk flow, helping you keep up your milk supply without added stress. That way, you can focus on getting better while still providing for your little one.
4. Keep Your Surroundings Clean
Regularly disinfect surfaces that are frequently touched, such as doorknobs, mobile phones, and toys. A clean environment will help reduce the chances of your baby coming into contact with harmful bacteria or viruses.
5. Smart Sneeze and Cough Control
Always cough or sneeze into a tissue or the crook of your elbow, not your hands. This practice helps to contain germs and prevent them from spreading to surfaces that your baby may touch.
6. Avoid Face-to-Face Contact
Try to limit face-to-face contact with your baby when you're very sick. Viruses are often spread through droplets that can be transmitted during close interactions. If you need to cough or sneeze while feeding or holding your baby, turn your head away to minimize exposure.
7. Get Help When You Need It
If you are extremely unwell, it might be best to have someone else take on the primary care duties until you feel better. This person could be a partner, family member, or friend who can help feed the baby with pumped breast milk and provide general care.
Is It OK to Take Medication While I Am Sick and Breastfeeding?
Yes, it is generally safe to take medication while breastfeeding, but with an important caveat: you must choose medications that are deemed safe for nursing mothers. Not all medications are created equal when it comes to their impact on breast milk and the baby who receives it.
For example, most common antibiotics and pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) are typically considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. However, aspirin is usually not recommended due to the potential risk of Reye's syndrome in infants.
Certain decongestants and cold remedies should be used with caution, as they can potentially lead to breast milk decrease when sick. Pseudoephedrine, for instance, a common decongestant, has been associated with a decrease in breast milk production. Always look for "breastfeeding safe" alternatives and discuss them with your doctor.
The timing of medication is also a consideration. Taking medicine right after breastfeeding can minimize the amount of medication in your breast milk by the time your baby feeds again.
While being sick and breastfeeding can limit your options for medication, there are still many safe choices for treatment. The key is to work closely with your healthcare provider to ensure the safety and well-being of both you and your baby.
FAQs About Milk Supply Drop When Sick
Q1: Is it normal for milk supply to drop when sick?
Yes, it's pretty common to see a milk supply drop when sick. Your body is focusing on fighting the illness, which can temporarily affect how much milk you make. If you're not eating or drinking enough due to feeling unwell, that can also reduce your supply.
Q2: How to get milk supply back up after recovery?
Once you start feeling better, you can increase milk supply by using a good breast pump to pump regularly or nursing more often. Drink plenty of fluids and eat a well-balanced diet to help your body recover. Rest as much as you can, and keep stress levels low. If you're still having trouble, consider reaching out to a lactation consultant for some personalized advice.
Q3: How does breastmilk change when you're sick?
Interestingly, your breast milk can change a bit when you're under the weather. It might contain more antibodies, specifically designed to fight off whatever bug you have, which is great for protecting your baby. The taste might alter slightly too, because of changes in your diet or medications you're taking. But these changes are typically minor and don't affect the milk’s overall quality or the benefits your baby gets from it. If you are worried about the impact of your breastmilk on your baby when you're sick, please always consult your doctor.
Keep Calm and Breastfeed On: A Gentle Reminder
If you get sick, it's pretty normal to see a dip in your milk supply, but don't worry too much—it usually comes right back once you're better. Just drink lots of water, get as much sleep as you can, eat foods that make you feel good, and talk to your doctor about what medicines you can take. Your breast milk is still doing an amazing job keeping your baby healthy, even when you’re feeling under the weather. Hang in there, and keep doing what you’re doing. Before you know it, you'll be feeling stronger, and your milk flow will be back on track.
