When faced with the question of whether to breastfeed if you have COVID-19, it’s essential to weigh the available evidence and recommendations to make an informed decision about the health of both the mother and the baby.
The current consensus among experts is that breast milk is not a source of transmission of SARS-CoV-2. This is reassuring news for breastfeeding mothers who may be concerned about the risk of passing the virus to their infants through breastfeeding.
Despite this, if you are a breastfeeding mother with suspected or confirmed COVID-19, it is crucial to take necessary precautions to minimize the potential risk of transmission to your baby. These precautions include wearing a mask while breastfeeding, washing your hands before touching your baby, and maintaining good respiratory hygiene.
It is worth noting that the benefits of breastfeeding, such as providing essential nutrients and antibodies to the baby, outweigh the potential risks of COVID-19 transmission through breast milk. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that mothers with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 continue to breastfeed their babies.
Additionally, breastfeeding can provide comfort and emotional support to both the mother and the baby during these challenging times. The close physical contact during breastfeeding can help strengthen the bond between the mother and the infant, promoting overall well-being for both.
If a mother is too ill to breastfeed or is separated from her baby due to COVID-19 precautions, she can express breast milk to ensure that the baby continues to receive the benefits of breastfeeding. Proper hygiene measures should be followed during milk expression to minimize the risk of contamination.
It is important for breastfeeding mothers with COVID-19 to stay informed about the latest recommendations from health authorities and consult with healthcare providers if they have any concerns or specific circumstances that need to be addressed.
Ultimately, the decision to breastfeed when you have COVID-19 is a personal one that should take into account your health, the health of your baby, and the support available to you. By following recommended precautions and staying informed, breastfeeding can continue to be a valuable and nurturing experience for both the mother and the infant.
