Hi ladies,
I have a bit of a sore throat and a cold. Is it ok for me to be feeding my 3 month old my breastmilk, or should I be pumping and dumping? If I can continue to feed him, are there any safe cold meds to take?
Thanks!
Ok, I guess it's unanimous! Thanks for your responses.
I had the same thing I had the flu, but I never stop breastfeeding. It was hard because I only took a few Tylenol and tried to rest when I could which is not often. I would ask your doctor but you both should be fine. :)
No, do not pump and dump. Your breastmilk provides antibodies for your baby and helps her/him build up his/her immunity to your cold (and other illnesses as well). There are lots of safe medications when breastfeeding, speak to your peditrician. Also, www.askdrsears.com has lots of great information about breastfeeding and medications.
I am a nurse with a background in mother/baby
double check with your doctor but I believe its ok.
DONT DUMP! Your milk will keep your baby from getting your cold. Keep nursing but don't take cold medicine, you have to stick it out but you can do it!
I just stopped nursing after a long and difficult seven months. I am happy I did it but so glad that it is over. Hang in there through the tough times, it will be over before you know it.
**HUG**
Don't Dump--your baby needs your antibodies. It is his best chance not to get sick if you are. Check with the doctor about meds--there may be some that are okay. (Not all doctors agree. I switched doctors while pregnant and got different advise on some things.) But my friend swears by mixing hot water, lemon juice, honey and fresh ginger (she is currently nursing a 7 month old). See if you can get some extra help even for a few days so you can recover--your body is working hard when nursing.
Hi J.
I was told by the nurses when I had my daughter that breastfeeding while sick is fine. I think the only exception to this is when you have a virus (I forget exactly what they told me because it never came up). I was sick for a period of time (sore throat, etc as she was born over the winter)and I nursed the whole time. I didnt take any meds though - I would say to call the pediatrician to find out what you can take if need be.
Actually it is best if you feed the milk to your baby. It contains antibodies to the cold, so you will actually be preventing your baby from getting it by breastfeeding.
Hi Jen as a baby nurse, you are fine do not worry about it
your baby will be fine . Enjoy your bundle
