Can you breastfeed if you have the flu?
Unfortunately, nursing mothers are not immune to diseases such as coughs, colds and stomach pains or nausea. Here is what to observe in particular if you breastfeed, so as not to infect the infant.
It is a common doubt among breastfeeding mothers if they continue to breastfeed if they do not want to pass on the infection to their baby. Fortunately, there are no pathogens in breast milk, so you can also breastfeed with the flu. Bacteria can, however, be transmitted with cuddles, kisses or close contact with the face.
Passive natural immunity
In the first year of life, newborns benefit from the so-called passive natural immunity. It is a natural defense against infections that are transmitted to the child at birth. In addition, important antibodies that strengthen the baby's immune system are transmitted with breastfeeding.
Minimize cuddling
Because the baby does not take the influence of breast milk but only from personal contact, the correct measure of protection from infection is hygiene. Especially during a cold or flu, hands should be washed before any contact with the child to avoid transmission of germs. It is also advisable to reduce cuddles during this time.
Nutrition
Even in the case of nutritional influence, eat in a healthy and varied way, so as to ensure that the baby has all the necessary nutrients. If you have absolutely no appetite, you can take a light meal but strengthen the body's defenses such as good chicken soup with many vegetables. Even the so-called "hot" spices help to strengthen the body and stimulate blood circulation. Then refine your food with ginger, coriander, cloves, basil, and rosemary. Do not forget to drink enough because when you have a fever the need for fluids increases.
Medications
Contact your doctor if you need to take medication because some substances may be passed on to your baby through breast milk. In these cases, it would be advisable to suspend breastfeeding. For this reason, it is advisable to pump some portions of breast milk and freeze it, in order not to be forced to resort to industrial products.