Kate Tuttle, BS, IBCLC
DISCLAIMER
Living through a global pandemic most certainly had its fair share of downfalls. Covid was (and still can be!) a very serious virus with the potential to have long lasting effects. As the virus has mutated and people have received their vaccinations, it typically tends to manifest in mild symptoms similar to the flu.
I tested positive for Covid-19. Can I still breastfeed my baby?
The short answer is yes. However, it is important to understand that everyone reacts to the virus differently and due to that, your doctor may advise you otherwise. In the beginning when little was known about the virus, babies were being separated from their Covid positive mothers and being advised not to breastfeed. The Centers for Disease Control says that recent studies have shown that the Covid-19 virus is not spread through breast milk and lactating mothers/parents should continue to breastfeed their babies. Breast milk contains antibodies that help fight off the Covid-19 virus. To read more about what the CDC says about breastfeeding and Covid-19, click here.
The World Health Organization also strongly encourages mothers to continue to breastfeed their babies and not to isolate themselves away from their babies throughout their Covid-19 diagnosis. For more frequently asked questions, click the link to read what The WHO says about Covid-19 and breastfeeding.
How to safely continue breastfeeding your baby through Covid-19
Stopping the spread of Covid-19 has and still is the main goal. Both the CDC and The WHO encourage breastfeeding and pregnant women to get the Covid-19 vaccine. Hand washing with warm water and soap for 20 seconds is the easiest way to stop the spread of the virus. This is something everyone can and should do. Mothers are encouraged to continue to breastfeed to pass the antibodies down to their babies. Mothers are also encouraged to mask up while interacting with their baby to help further prevent the spread of the virus.
A Covid-19 diagnosis can be stressful, but wondering how you will feed your baby should not be. You’ve got this and we’ve got you!
0 comments