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Starting a life as a new mom is both amazing and stressful for the body and mind. How do you deal if you come down with a cold, flu or virus when you have just welcomed your new baby? Mom sick with a newborn can make you think things can't get worse, especially since sleep deprivation and worry about giving germs to your baby are big problems. There is a positive side to all this. Many mothers recover within a short time and continue caring for their babies with some added support.
Can I Still Breastfeed When Sick?
Breast milk is safe to give, so it is usually fine to continue feeding while sick. Should you have a cold, stomach bug or very light flu, breastfeeding defends your baby against infection. That happens as your body creates antibodies to resist the illness, and these antibodies go to your baby by way of your milk. This boosts your baby's immune system and may stop them from getting ill.
In rare cases, a mother developing a serious condition (like HIV, tuberculosis or active herpes lesions on the breast) might also need to stop breastfeeding. If you are unsure, consult a healthcare expert.
Is It OK to Take Medicines While Breastfeeding?
Yes, but some drugs may not be safe to take when breastfeeding; that's why you should check with your doctor or pharmacist first. Besides looking for breastfeeding-friendly medicines, you can use many prescription and over-the-counter drugs
since they are safe for your baby.
Following your healthcare provider's lead, look over this list of commonly recommended medicines that are generally safe for breastfeeding. Although it may not cover everything, it shares several popular choices.
Pain Relievers
Acetaminophen (Tylenol and generics)
Ibuprofen (which includes the brand names Advil and Motrin IB)
Naproxen sodium (Aleve, Anaprox DS) — should only be used for a short time.
Antimicrobial Medications
- When you have a fungal infection, your doctor may prescribe fluconazole (Diflucan)
- Miconazole (in Monistat 3 and Monistat 7) — only use a very small amount on the affected area.
- Clotrimazole (Mycelex, Lotrimin AF) belongs to this group because it is made for topical (applied outside) treatment, and the recommended dose is small.
- Penicillins are, for example, amoxicillin and ampicillin.
- Taking antibiotics like cephalexin (a cephalosporin)
Antihistamines
- Loratadine (uses Claritin, Alavert)
- Fexofenadine (Allegra Allergy)
Decongestants
- Be cautious when using pseudoephedrine (Sudafed, Zyrtec D), as it can reduce your milk supply.
- A saline nasal spray is a safe and effective option, as it involves no medications and helps clear congestion.
What if I Have to Go Into the Hospital?
Hospitals are able to support breastfeeding by assisting you with pumping and storing your milk, or they allow your baby to visit the hospital and feed if supervised.
Whenever a break from feeding is required, expressing milk every few hours helps maintain a healthy milk supply and reduces the risk of engorgement or mastitis. Consider seeking assistance from an experienced partner to help with caring for your baby and feeding them expressed milk whenever possible.
How to feed the baby while in the hospital?
When you’re ill and don’t want to touch your baby during feeding, or would like a safer way to feed while in the hospital, these products are very useful.
- The Momcozy M5 Wearable Breast Pump is useful for moms because it is small, hands-free, fitting their recovery needs perfectly.
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- A Portable Breast Milk Cooler for Outdoor Use: This helps you keep breast milk safely stored while you are separated from your little one outdoors.
-
Superfast Portable Breast Milk & Water Warmer: Ensure your milk is at the right temperature without having to get up or wait for a kettle.
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How to Keep an Infant Healthy When Mom is Sick
Protecting your newborn is crucial when you are feeling unwell. Using some basic strategies and healthy habits can lower the risk of spreading disease and let you keep caring for those you look after.
Minimize contact with the infant
It’s usually not possible to stay very far from your baby if you’re breastfeeding, but you can always be careful:
- If you have a cough or runny nose, make sure to put a mask on during times you are close to your newborn.
- Always wash your hands thoroughly before interacting with your baby's bottle or the parts of the breast pump.
- Do not kiss your baby’s face when you have symptoms.
- Cough or sneeze into a tissue and throw it away right away.
- Put a separate blanket on your chest if you are holding your baby to stop passing germs through your skin.
Always Sterilize or Clean Feeding Tools
Being sick means you should pay extra attention to cleaning your baby’s things. Save yourself time and keep things tidy with the Momcozy KleanPal Pro Baby Bottle Washer, which uses heated steam to clean bottles, nipples, pacifiers, and pump pieces without requiring scrubbing.
Taking care of hygiene and having the right essentials can enable you to care for your baby, focus on yourself, and protect others from illness.
When to Call the Doctor
When you feel overly unwell, or your illness isn't going away, never hesitate to call your doctor as soon as possible. Visiting a doctor is common when people have:
- A temperature that rises above 101°F(38.3°C)
- Difficulty breathing
- (Dehydration may occur as a result of) vomiting or diarrhea
- After three or four days, the fever persists, or the symptoms worsen.
Likewise, arrange a call to your baby’s doctor if you believe your infant is sick, for example, if you note:
- Trouble feeding
- Babies under 3 months old should have their fever checked if it reaches 100.4°F (38°C).
- Sleeping or fidgeting much more than usual
- Vomiting, having diarrhea or difficulty breathing
Should I Breastfeed My Sick Infant?
Yes, it is OK and indeed encouraged to continue breastfeeding a child who is under the weather unless there is a particular feeding restriction. Hydration, nutrients and immune-boosting properties in breast milk assist your baby in getting better.
A gentle feeding session can be very calming for your baby if they have a mild cold or fever. Keep feeding your baby from the breast regularly, whether they seem eager for it or not. Opting for multiple small meals may be simpler than giving your baby one large meal.
What If My Infant Seems Too Unwell to Breastfeed
If your child is not able to breastfeed because of congestion, exhaustion or weakness, you can do the following:
- Before starting a feeding, use a nasal aspirator or saline solution to clear the nose.
- Give your baby formula through a bottle, syringe or cup if they can’t use the breast like a nurse feeds one.
- Place your baby skin-to-skin to help calm them and get them to suckle.
- Changes to your baby’s wet diapers and dehydration signs should prompt you to contact your pediatrician.
How to Care for Your Sick Infant
Having a sick baby is emotionally exhausting, and it can be much worse if you are ill. This is how you can handle both:
- Ensure the baby is drinking breast milk or formula on a regular schedule. If you are told to do so by your pediatrician, give your child a few sips of electrolyte solution for diarrhea.
- A simple way to open your airways is to use a cool-mist humidifier.
- Use a reliable digital thermometer to check the temperature inside the fridge.
- Keep the baby relaxed by ensuring their room is not too loud or busy.
- You should call the doctor if your symptoms persist or worsen.
Remember that your presence, touch and kind words help your child even if you don’t feel great.
FAQ
Will my newborn catch a cold from me?
Although it may occur, there are no guarantees. Since their immune systems are not fully developed, breastfeeding is particularly beneficial. Washing your hands, covering your face, and avoiding close contact can lower the risk of spreading the virus.
Can I take care of my baby if I'm sick?
Yes, please ensure cleanliness. Put on a mask when you cough or sneeze, and feel free to request assistance with diapering, feeding, or soothing your baby. Pausing during the workout allows your muscles to rest.
What happens to a newborn baby if the mother has a fever?
If you have a fever but your condition is stable, take care of your baby with extra caution. If your body temperature is extremely high or you have serious symptoms (such as trouble breathing or fainting), you should get medical help right away. Your baby might not get affected by this, but keep an eye on them and tell their doctor if you observe anything unusual.
Conclusion
Even if you are sick, taking precautions and having support can help you care for your baby safely and recover. Know that you are not expected to face all of these things by yourself. Get advice when you're uncertain, speak to your health provider and rely on what your body tells you. Being sick in life is only temporary, but the care you give always makes a positive impression. It's most important to be lenient with yourself. You are still a great mother, whether the day is easy or not.
