COVID-19 and lactation
According to the WHO, the active SARS-CoV-2 virus was not detected in the breast milk of any mother with confirmed COVID-19. Therefore, it is unlikely that the virus is transmitted through breast milk.
Given that the benefits of breastfeeding far outweigh the potential risks of transmitting the virus, if you are sick or suspected to be infected and are breastfeeding, you should not stop breastfeeding, but the opposite. Also, do not be afraid to hold the baby in your arms and provide skin-to-skin contact.
Recommendations:
- Wash your hands before putting on a mask, picking up a baby, touching your breast or using a breast pump.
- Use a mask while feeding to reduce the risk of infected mucus reaching the baby.
- After removing the mask, throw it away immediately and wash your hands thoroughly.
- If possible, avoid sneezing and coughing while feeding.
- It is desirable that other healthy family members take care of the child.
Follow these recommendations for at least 14 days after symptoms appear.
If your condition does not allow breastfeeding yet, you can resume lactation as soon as you start to feel better.
Author: Obstetrician-gynecologist Furdas Nataliya
If you experience symptoms of an illness, please consult a doctor.