Breastfeeding while sick

[Ava10]

My bundle of joy is just past a month old and of course I had to get a cold or mild flu, with all the crap that comes with it- runny nose, mild fever, headache, cough, stuffed ears. This is not how I envisioned spending my darling's first Christmas season. I am breastfeeding exclusively, and I know I should continue because of the antibodies. My question is the one thing that worries me without end- how likely am I to infect the little one? I soooooooo hope it does not happen!!!!

 

[wishingonastar]

No more likely to infect LO than if you were a FF however as you're BFing LO will get better quicker if does catch it

 

[Bevziibubble]

You're fine to continue breastfeeding. Your baby will get the antibodies your body is making and so will get some protection from it. Hope you're feeling better soon

 

[icegurl470]

I know how you feel! Mine just turned 8 weeks and I'm on my 2nd cold! I'm pretty sure she caught both of them too, but honestly the symptoms are so mild for them while they're breastfeeding its usually not a big deal. She had a little bit of a rattling when she breathed and was a little coughy and sneezy for like 2 days but that was it. Just keep their nose clear of boogers. I bought a nasal aspirator and it works so much better than a bulb syringe.

 

[Shandelion]

We found that our son almost never caught my colds. My husband and I might get sick, but my 21 month old son hasn't gotten a cold since he was about 6 months old. I even had some form of strep-like infection and he kept eating and drinking after me and didn't catch it. Crazy!

He and I both came home from the hospital with a cold, and his lasted forever. He had a couple before he was six months old.

 

[Ava10]

Thank you everyone for your replies!!! They are very encouraging and I remain hopeful.