Rebornne Baby. American Baby
Rebornne Baby. American Baby
breastfeeding
features
quizzes experts
Breastfeeding is natural, but it
doesn't come naturally to every mom. Find out how to overcome the
most common nursing difficulties, like latch-on problems, nipple
confusion, and engorgement.
features
Is
It Safe to Breastfeed When You're Sick?
Find out what
an expert has to say.
Q: Is it safe
to breastfeed when I'm sick?
A: Believe it or not, people are most contagious before they even
know they're sick. So 12 to 24 hours before showing any symptoms,
a mother has already exposed her baby to whatever bug or virus she's
contracted. Fortunately, the mother also forms antibodies to her illness
in four to five days, which she passes to her baby via the breast
milk. Since most viruses have an incubation period of five to seven
days, the mother passes her baby the antibody protection before he
can come down with anything.
I tell moms that
as long as they're physically able, they may continue to nurse while
they're ill. The only reasons a sick mother shouldn't breastfeed are
if she feels too lousy to do it or if she's taking a medication that
isn't safe for the baby. If your physician prescribes a drug that's
not safe to take while breastfeeding, find out if it's essential,
or ask for an alternative. Also consult your doctor before you take
any over-the-counter medication.
The one exception
to all of this is if your child is younger than 3 weeks old. Babies
are especially vulnerable to infection in the first few days of life.
For instance, a mother who is ill with the flu when she gives birth
is usually kept away from her baby until she's no longer contagious,
or she may be required to wear a gown, gloves, and a mask when she
holds the child. Breastfeeding is not advised during this time.
Your
should know:
The
information on this Web site is designed for educational purposes
only. It is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical
advice or care. You should not use this information to diagnose
or treat any health problems or illnesses without consulting your
pediatrician or family doctor. Please consult a doctor with any
questions or concerns you might have regarding your or your child's
condition.
