THE BENEFITS OF BREASTFEEDING WHEN YOUR BABY IS SICK

The breastfeeding experience can be challenging, even under the best of circumstances. When your little one is sick, it can add an extra layer of worry and difficulty. As a breastfeeding medicine physician and lactation consultant in Chicago, I want to offer some guidance on how to navigate breastfeeding when your baby isn't feeling well. In this post, we’ll explore why continuing to breastfeed when your baby is ill is so important, and provide guidelines for breastfeeding (or any type of infant feeding!) during this time.

Why Continue Breastfeeding When Your Baby Is Sick?

Human milk is not only a source of nutrition; it’s a powerful tool in supporting your baby’s immune system. When your baby is sick, your breast milk can provide vital antibodies and nutrients that help them recover more quickly.  These infection-fighting properties are most beneficial in the early postpartum period, as newborns have weaker immune systems.  But breast milk continues to be helpful in this regard throughout your breastfeeding journey. Breast milk is also easier to digest than formula or other foods, which can be particularly beneficial if your baby is dealing with a stomach virus. In many cases, babies can tolerate breast milk even when they are unable to keep other foods down.

Breastfeeding while your baby is sick also offers comfort. Comfort nursing can soothe a fussy, uncomfortable baby, providing a sense of security and relief from the discomfort they may be experiencing.

Managing Feeding Challenges: Stuffy Noses and More

A common issue when breastfeeding a sick baby is nasal congestion. If your baby has a cold, a stuffy nose can make it hard for them to nurse effectively. Using saline drops and a bulb syringe or nasal aspirator to clear your baby’s nose before feeding can make a significant difference. Additionally, feeding your baby in an upright position can help them breathe more easily while nursing or taking a bottle.

Offering frequent breaks during feedings is also beneficial. This allows your baby to catch their breath and take in smaller amounts of milk at a time, which can help prevent them from becoming overwhelmed or exhausted, or from spitting up everything they just ate. Remember, it’s okay if your baby is eating smaller amounts more often.  Whoever is in charge of your pediatric care is more concerned with hydration than weight gain when your baby is sick.  It's not uncommon for a baby to fail to gain weight, or even to lose a bit of weight, when they are sick.  Don't worry - they will gain it back!

Some lactating people notice pain with nursing when their baby is sick.  This can occur as a result of babies nursing more frequently and longer (for comfort) or latching more shallowly due to their sickness.  Be patient.  Try to ensure a deep latch, offer alternative methods to comfort your baby, or perhaps pump and provide a bottle for some feedings if you're having significant pain.  

When to Seek Medical Attention

While it’s usually safe to continue breastfeeding when your baby is sick, there are some situations where you should seek medical attention from your pediatrician. If your baby is experiencing labored breathing or seems to be struggling to breathe, it's important to get them checked right away by a healthcare provider. Similarly, if your baby is vomiting most of what they eat or is not producing at least three wet diapers in 24 hours, these could be signs of dehydration or another serious medical condition that needs prompt medical evaluation.  Also, babies with chronic conditions may have more difficulty keeping up with their hydration needs and may "poop out" more quickly.  

As always, trust your instincts. If something doesn’t seem right or if you are worried about your baby’s health, don’t hesitate to contact your pediatrician. It’s better to be safe and get a professional opinion. Remember, most doctors now offer virtual consultations, so you may be able to get at least some initial medical advice without even leaving your home!

The Benefits of Fresh Breast Milk

One of the amazing things about breastfeeding is that your body adjusts to meet your baby’s needs. When your baby is sick, your body actually produces more antibodies in your breast milk to help fight off the specific germs they are exposed to. This makes fresh breast milk incredibly beneficial when your baby is ill. The closer to the time of nursing that milk is produced, the more potent these protective properties will be.

So, if your baby is sick, try to nurse directly if possible. If direct breastfeeding isn’t feasible, fresh pumped milk is the next best thing. Your milk is uniquely tailored to support your baby’s health in a wide range of ways, especially during illness.

That being said, sometimes providing your own breast milk just isn't in the cards or isn't your choice.  In that case, focus on the extra TLC and love you can give your baby while offering bottles of donor human milk, formula, or even hydration drinks (if approved by your primary care physician).  You are still everything your baby needs when they are sick, breast milk or no breast milk!

Take Care of Yourself, Too

While your focus will naturally be on your baby when they’re not feeling well, don’t forget to take care of yourself. Being a parent to a sick baby can be exhausting and stressful. Make sure to rest when you can, stay hydrated, and reach out for support if you need it. Your well-being is important, too, and caring for yourself will help you continue to care for your baby.  While they don't provide medical care, postpartum doulas can often offer tremendous support when you're dealing with a sick baby, by caring for you!  If your baby's illness is interfering with your breastfeeding goals, contacting an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) or seeking other lactation services might be helpful.  

In conclusion, breastfeeding your baby when they are sick is not only safe but highly beneficial. By continuing to provide breast milk, you’re giving your baby the best possible support to recover from their illness. As a lactation consultant and pediatrician providing newborn care in Chicago and the Western Suburbs, I’m here to support you through these challenging moments. Remember, you're doing an amazing job, and both you and your baby will get through this together.