There’s a lot of uncertainty surrounding the topic of breastfeeding for parents diagnosed with COVID-19. Many wonder: is it safe to breastfeed my baby if I’m infected with the virus? Naturally, the concern about transmitting COVID-19 to your child is valid, but there’s also the worry that your breast milk might carry the virus. Additionally, how can you safely nurse your baby while adhering to social distancing guidelines?
Fortunately, current research suggests that breast milk does not transmit COVID-19 to infants. In fact, it may actually offer protection. Studies have indicated that COVID-19 antibodies can be found in the breast milk of infected mothers, which could help bolster your baby’s immune defense.
The Science Behind COVID-19 Antibodies in Breast Milk
A recent study published in mBio on February 9 revealed that mothers with COVID-19 do not pass the virus through their milk. Instead, they transfer COVID-19 specific antibodies that could help neutralize the virus. Out of 37 milk samples from mothers infected with COVID-19, none contained the virus, while about two-thirds showed the presence of antibodies targeting the virus. This suggests that breastfeeding might actually serve as a protective measure for your baby rather than a risk.
Bridget Young, a researcher at the University of Rochester Medical Center, commented on these findings, saying that this is encouraging news for nursing mothers with COVID-19. Future studies are expected to explore whether vaccinated mothers can also produce COVID-19 antibodies in their milk.
Global Health Recommendations
The World Health Organization (WHO) has long endorsed breastfeeding, advocating for exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months and continued nursing for up to two years or longer. They previously noted that breast milk from mothers with COVID-19 contains antibodies against the virus, supporting the notion that breastfeeding is beneficial, even amidst an infection.
Safety Precautions While Breastfeeding
If you are a nursing parent with COVID-19, breastfeeding your baby might be their best defense. However, it’s crucial to adhere to safety measures. The CDC recommends washing your hands before touching your baby, wearing a mask while nursing, and ensuring all pump and bottle equipment is cleaned thoroughly after each use. Ideally, assign a single caregiver to help you and your baby while maintaining as much distance as possible from others in the household.
If you’re too unwell to breastfeed directly, expressed breast milk can be given to your baby, but take care to sanitize the pump after each use. The caregiver should also wear a mask while feeding.
When to Resume Normal Activities
Parents infected with COVID-19 should follow CDC guidelines for isolation. It’s recommended to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best quarantine practices for both you and your baby, as they will have been exposed to the virus. This may involve spending significant time indoors, making community support vital. Friends and family can help by delivering meals, checking in regularly, and assisting with errands.
While COVID-19 antibodies found in breast milk are promising, they do not replace the need for strict masking and distancing protocols. The key takeaway is that having COVID-19 does not necessitate stopping breastfeeding; in fact, it may provide even more reason to continue nursing. However, prioritize your health; if you need to pass care of your baby to others to facilitate your recovery, it’s completely understandable.
For further information on this topic, you can check out our other blog post here, as well as insights from Intracervical Insemination, an authority on the subject. Additionally, Kindbody offers excellent resources on pregnancy and home insemination.
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In summary, breastfeeding while infected with COVID-19 may not only be safe but could also provide your baby with essential antibodies. However, it’s crucial to take the necessary precautions to protect your health and your baby’s well-being.