Breastfeeding While Sick: How to Care for Yourself and Keep Your Milk Flowing

Getting sick while caring for your baby can feel like a nightmare—especially when you’re trying to keep up with breastfeeding. Between body aches, fatigue, and endless tissues, you might wonder: Can I still breastfeed? Will my baby get sick? What about my milk supply?

The good news? You can absolutely breastfeed while sick, and in most cases, it’s the best thing you can do for your baby. Your milk contains powerful antibodies that help protect your little one from whatever you’re fighting off.

But let’s be real—breastfeeding while sick can be exhausting. So, let’s talk about how to care for yourself, protect your supply, and keep things as manageable as possible.

Can I Breastfeed If I’m Sick? Yes, You Can!

In almost every situation—whether it’s a cold, flu, or stomach bug—you can and should keep breastfeeding. Here’s why:

🌿 Your milk is medicine: Even before you notice symptoms, your body is producing antibodies to protect your baby.
🌿 Most illnesses don’t pass through breast milk: The germs are spread through coughs, sneezes, or touch—not your milk.
🌿 Stopping suddenly can cause more issues: Like engorgement or a dip in supply.

In fact, many moms tell me their breastfed babies don’t even catch their cold—or if they do, it’s milder and shorter. 🙌

Caring for Your Supply While You Rest

When you’re under the weather, your body’s energy is going to healing—which can sometimes cause a small dip in supply. Here’s how to protect your milk flow without draining yourself:

💧 Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate: Fevers and congestion can dehydrate you fast. Sip water, broths, or electrolyte drinks. Your milk supply depends on you staying hydrated!

⏰ Keep nursing or pumping on schedule: It’s tempting to skip feeds when you’re exhausted, but regular milk removal is key to keeping up supply.

🌿 Try ‘nurse-cations’: Rest in bed with your baby skin-to-skin and let them nurse as often as they want. It’s relaxing for both of you and can help boost your supply.

Safe Medications for Breastfeeding Moms

You don’t have to suffer through without relief! Many over-the-counter medications are safe while nursing:

✔️ For pain or fever: Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) are both safe and can help you feel better faster.
✔️ For congestion: Saline nasal spray, steam inhalation, or a humidifier can bring natural relief.
✔️ For cough or sore throat: Lozenges, honey, and warm teas are gentle and soothing.

❗ Be cautious with: Decongestants containing pseudoephedrine (like Sudafed), which can lower milk supply.

If you’re unsure about a medication, check LactMed, a trusted source for medication safety during breastfeeding.

What If I’m Too Sick to Nurse?

Sometimes, you’re just too wiped out to breastfeed directly. That’s okay! Here’s how to protect your supply:

💪 Pump if you can: Even short sessions count. If a full session feels impossible, try gentle hand expression to keep things moving.
👩‍⚕️ Ask for help: Have your partner or family member feed baby your expressed milk while you rest.
😴 Rest whenever possible: Sleep is so important for recovery.

When to Reach Out for Extra Support

If you notice:
🚩 A sudden drop in supply that’s not bouncing back.
🚩 Baby seems frustrated, fussy, or isn’t having enough wet diapers.
🚩 You’re dealing with mastitis, clogged ducts, or severe pain.

It’s time to call in some expert help!

SOS! Book a Virtual Consult with an IBCLC (Like Me!)

You don’t have to figure this out alone. Whether you’re battling supply issues, struggling to nurse through an illness, or just need reassurance, I can help.

✅ We can meet virtually from the comfort of your bed—no need to pack up you and baby.
✅ I’ll help you create a plan to manage your supply while you recover.
✅ I can support you with pumping strategies, gentle weaning from supplements, or comfort measures for mastitis or clogged ducts.

✨ Book your SOS Lactation Consult today—covered by many insurance plans! click here to schedule. 💛

You’ve Got This, Mama! 💪

It’s tough to breastfeed when you’re feeling run down, but you are stronger than you think. Your body is nourishing your baby and fighting off your illness at the same time—how amazing is that?

Be gentle with yourself. Rest when you can. And know that this hard moment will pass. 💛