Good news moms! While a recent study has reported a finding of 17 coronavirus cases in newborns where 30% were infected from their mothers, breastfeeding activities are not associated with Covid-19. More interestingly, another study has also reported very little possibilities of coronavirus transmission through breast milk.
Scientists from China have further stated that breast milk can be one of the most powerful ways to kill coronavirus. And from other provided studies and records, WHO has advised families to proceed with breastfeeding activity during the pandemic. However, mothers who are infected with coronavirus have to follow the recommended protocol to minimize the risk.
Benefits of Breastfeeding during Covid-19 Pandemic
The pandemic has posed many challenges globally, including for nursing mothers. However, breastfeeding activity can still continue due to the many healthy benefits :
- Breastfeeding is beneficial to babies. Breast milk protects babies from many different infections and reduces respiratory infections.
- Breastfeeding is beneficial for mothers. The hormones released during the breastfeeding process help calm mothers and reduce stress and anxiety.
- Breast milk is available and can be convenient during the situation of a pandemic.check our breast milk boosters here.
5 Breastfeeding Tips During The Pandemic
- Continue breastfeeding activity with prioritizing hygiene
Unicef recommends nursing mothers to continue breastfeeding while applying the following care :
- Wear a mask during breastfeeding
- Washing hands before and after handling baby
- Wiping surfaces with disinfectant regularly.
The risk of coronavirus mainly comes from close contact. Nursing mothers have to continue practicing care when being in close range to baby.
2. Maintain breastfeeding when mothers have fallen sick.
Mothers who get coronavirus shortly before giving birth and begin breastfeeding, and those who become infected while breastfeeding, will produce immune factors (antibodies) in their milk to protect their baby and enhance the baby’s own immune responses.
This means that continuing to breastfeed is the best way to fight the virus and protect your baby. If a mother does fall ill with symptoms of fever, cough or difficulty breathing, she should seek medical care early, and follow instructions from a health care provider.
3. Use a cup and spoon to feed the baby with expressed breast milk.
When the situation requires mothers to undergo medical treatment thus unable to directly breastfeed, aim to pump or express breast milk as per your baby’s need. Ask a family member to feed your baby with a cup and spoon while following the correct protocol.
4. Take extra care when formula feeding
Breastfeeding is the best way of providing ideal food for the healthy growth and development of babies. However, there are instances where a mother is unable to breastfeed or where she has decided not to breastfeed. In addition, the widespread marketing of formula milks undermines the confidence of many mothers and encourages them to feed their babies using bottles and formula milks. In these cases, it is especially important that babies are being fed according to the instructions on the packaging and that extra care is taken with thoroughly washing bottles, teats and any other equipment used.
How to Maintain Breast Milk When You’re Ill
To keep breast milk production in desired volume for exclusive breastfeeding ( at least 6 months), nursing mothers are advised to continue pumping as per the baby’s needs ( 8-10 times a day or within 24 hours). Wear a mask and wash your hands before and after pumping, including during handling your baby.
Consult your medical needs to your doctor and make sure to tell your doctor about your breastfeeding condition. Mothers may also consult the doctor about using breast milk booster from Mamabear.
While it may be extra difficult and challenging, stay strong and optimistic ! Don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor or professionals for medical care.
How to Maintain Breast Milk When You’re Ill
To keep breast milk production in desired volume for exclusive breastfeeding ( at least 6 months), nursing mothers are advised to continue pumping as per the baby’s needs ( 8-10 times a day or within 24 hours). Wear a mask and wash your hands before and after pumping, including during handling your baby.
Consult your medical needs to your doctor and make sure to tell your doctor about your breastfeeding condition. Mothers may also consult the doctor about using breast milk booster from Mamabear.
While it may be extra difficult and challenging, stay strong and optimistic ! Don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor or professionals for medical care.
Source :
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7260539/
https://internationalbreastfeedingjournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13006-020-00319-3