Breastfeeding parents often worry if illness can decrease milk supply. While a temporary dip in production can occur, continuing to breastfeed is generally safe and recommended. Breastfeeding offers protective antibodies to the baby, potentially reducing their risk of illness or severe symptoms. The body prioritizes milk production, so minor illnesses often have little lasting impact on supply.
Understanding How Illness Affects Supply
Illness can affect milk supply through physiological changes. Dehydration, common with fevers, vomiting, or diarrhea, directly impacts milk volume since breast milk is mostly water. The body’s energy redirects to fight the illness, which can temporarily affect milk production.
Reduced feeding frequency, common when a parent or baby is unwell, signals the body to produce less milk. Consistent milk removal is crucial for maintaining supply. Physical and emotional stress from illness can also interfere with oxytocin, the hormone responsible for milk ejection or let-down.
Certain medications can also influence milk supply. Decongestants containing pseudoephedrine can reduce milk production. Estrogen-containing birth control and some antihistamines, like diphenhydramine, may also impact supply. Always discuss medication choices with a healthcare provider while breastfeeding.
Strategies for Maintaining Milk Supply
Maintaining frequent nursing or pumping sessions is a primary strategy to sustain milk supply during illness. Regularly emptying the breasts signals the body to produce more milk, even if the amount seems low initially. If direct breastfeeding is challenging due to discomfort or a baby’s reduced interest, expressing milk can help maintain production.
Staying well-hydrated is important, as breast milk is about 87-88% water. Breastfeeding parents typically need 13 to 16 cups (3 to 3.8 liters) of fluids daily from water, broths, and water-rich foods. Drinking a glass of water during each feeding session helps meet increased fluid needs. However, excessive fluid intake beyond thirst does not increase milk supply and can potentially reduce it.
Prioritizing rest and consuming nutrient-dense foods supports overall recovery and milk production. Asking for help with household tasks or baby care allows the parent to focus on healing. Finding comfortable nursing positions, such as side-lying, can make feeding easier when unwell. Monitoring the baby’s wet and dirty diaper output provides a general indication of adequate milk transfer, with at least six wet diapers and three to four stools per day by day five being typical.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
Consult a healthcare professional if illness symptoms are severe, worsen, or include a persistent high fever. Signs of a breast infection, such as mastitis, warrant prompt medical attention. Mastitis symptoms include a red, swollen, and painful breast area, often with flu-like symptoms like fever, chills, and body aches. Untreated mastitis can lead to complications.
Seek advice if there is a significant or prolonged drop in milk supply that does not improve with self-care strategies. Concerns about the baby not getting enough milk, such as fewer wet diapers or inadequate weight gain, should prompt a consultation with a pediatrician or lactation consultant. Always discuss any medications, including over-the-counter remedies, with a healthcare provider or pharmacist to ensure their safety and compatibility with breastfeeding.