Feeding Infants and Birth Resources during Covid-19

During these uncertain, ambiguous and testing times, each one of us is feeling a range of emotions. In this global pandemic, we at MilkyMama want to give the information that is evidence based, reliable and easy to comprehend. Breastfeeding is the bedrock for a healthy and strong child and ensures an efficient immune system which is very vital in these times. Breastfeeding is not only important for the child but also for the mother's health in the long run.

Despite the many benefits of breastfeeding, mothers are dubious about it and are concerned that if they may have contacted the virus or are suffering from the virus they can transmit it to the infant, thus risking their lives. The decision to nurse an infant should be taken while keeping all the factors under consideration. The risks of contacting the virus and the morbidity affiliated with the discontinuation of breastfeeding. WHO strongly recommends that mothers with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 should nurse the kids and must be counseled and educated if thinking against it.

There has been no evidence whether COVID-19 can be transmitted via breast milk. With the data available it is not likely to happen. A mother with a suspected or confirmed case of the Corona virus must take precautionary measures to ensure no transmission during nursing. Mother should properly wash and clean hands with soap and water and if the soap and water aren’t available then use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. She must cover her face with a mask of face shield while feeding.

 If the mother is expressing the milk she must wash her hands as mentioned before. It is also recommended that expressed milk should be fed by a healthy person to lower the risk further. If mothers feel a decline in milk supply due to no sucking of the infant they should try our delicious lactating cookies or our natural milk supply booster which significantly increase the supply of the milk and can be stored for later use.

Before gearing up for breastfeeding, mothers must receive high quality care before and after childbirth, which includes antenatal, intrapartum and mental health care. If you are a mother who is soon going to deliver the child in this ongoing pandemic then you must invest time and energy in some good birth resources. This will reflect very positively on your overall health before and after the delivery. You will be much more aware and ready to face challenges head on.

Assemble a birth team that understands your needs but be sure to take protective measures to keep the virus at bay. I strongly recommend reading books and articles, watching movies and documentaries and getting in touch with a birth doula.

Fear, anxiety, stress, uncertainty and not enough information evokes strong sentiments in people. Pregnant mothers and lactating mothers are even more anxious but fidgeting and overthinking won’t help. Seek help and proper guidance from your health care professionals to get on top of things and take protective measures to ensure safety of your loved ones.