Breastfeeding offers numerous benefits to both infants and mothers, providing essential nutrients and antibodies that protect against various illnesses. During the COVID-19 pandemic, these benefits were well studied and found to be significant.
Breastfeeding During COVID-19 Infection
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that mothers with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 should be encouraged to initiate or continue breastfeeding. The benefits of breastfeeding substantially outweigh the potential risks of transmission. Mothers are advised to practice respiratory hygiene, including wearing a mask during feeding, wash hands before and after touching the baby, and routinely clean and disinfect surfaces.
Similarly, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) supports breastfeeding for mothers with COVID-19, emphasizing that breast milk is the best source of nutrition for most infants. Mothers should follow appropriate precautions, such as wearing a mask and practicing hand hygiene, to prevent the spread of the virus to the infant.
Impact of COVID-19 on Breast Milk Supply
COVID-19 infection can influence breast milk production. A study published in the journal Clinical and Experimental Obstetrics & Gynecology found that 68.8% of mothers experienced a decrease in breast milk production following COVID-19 infection, with the lowest production occurring during the second week after infection. However, milk supply gradually increased thereafter.
Other studies have reported similar findings. For instance, research indicated that 75% of women faced difficulties breastfeeding during the pandemic, with 66% attributing these challenges to concerns about COVID-19 transmission to their children.
Supporting Breastfeeding Mothers During Illness
Mothers who are ill, including those with COVID-19, may notice a temporary drop in milk supply. To support and maintain breastfeeding during illness:
• Continue Frequent Breastfeeding or Pumping: Regular breastfeeding or expressing milk stimulates production and helps maintain supply.
• Stay Hydrated and Well-Nourished: Adequate fluid intake and nutrition are vital for milk production.
• Rest and Seek Support: Resting and seeking assistance with household tasks can help mothers conserve energy for breastfeeding.
• Consult Healthcare Providers: Lactation consultants or healthcare providers can offer guidance and support tailored to individual needs.
It’s important to note that while some mothers may experience a decrease in milk supply during illness, this reduction is often temporary. With appropriate support and measures, mothers can continue to provide the benefits of breastfeeding to their infants during and after illness.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Care for breastfeeding women: Interim guidance on breastfeeding and breast milk feeds in the context of COVID-19. CDC. https://stacks.cdc.gov/view/cdc/85197
- International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Obstetrics & Gynecology. (2024). Impact of COVID-19 on breastfeeding mothers and milk supply: A clinical study. IMR Press. https://www.imrpress.com/journal/CEOG/51/7/10.31083/j.ceog5107158
- Pooni, R., Pandita, A., Austin, T., & Desai, P. (2022). The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on breastfeeding initiation, continuation, and support: A systematic review. International Breastfeeding Journal, 17(1), 1-14. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9819154
- World Health Organization. (2020). Breastfeeding and COVID-19. WHO. https://www.who.int/news-room/commentaries/detail/breastfeeding-and-covid-19
- Australian Breastfeeding Association. (2020). Breastfeeding and COVID-19. https://www.breastfeeding.asn.au/resources/breastfeeding-and-covid-19