I am a breastfeeding mom of a 2-month-old baby, now I am suffering with a fever of 99°F. can I breastfeed my baby?

Question

Accepted Answer

If you have a fever of 99 degrees Fahrenheit (37.2 degrees Celsius), it's generally safe to continue breastfeeding your two-month-old baby. In most cases, minor illnesses like a low-grade fever won't affect your ability to breastfeed, and breastfeeding can actually provide important antibodies to help protect your baby from getting sick.

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

1. **Practice Good Hygiene**: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water before breastfeeding to help prevent the spread of germs to your baby.

2. **Stay Hydrated**: Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, as breastfeeding can be dehydrating, especially when you're not feeling well.

3. **Rest and Take Care of Yourself**: Try to get plenty of rest and take care of yourself while you're feeling unwell. Resting and taking care of your own health can help you recover more quickly and continue breastfeeding.

4. **Monitor Your Symptoms**: If your fever persists or worsens, or if you develop other symptoms such as severe headache, body aches, or difficulty breathing, contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.

5. **Consider Pain Relief**: If you're experiencing discomfort from your fever, you can take acetaminophen (Tylenol) as directed by your healthcare provider. Acetaminophen is considered safe to take while breastfeeding.

6. **Consult Your Healthcare Provider**: If you're unsure whether it's safe to breastfeed while you have a fever, or if you have any concerns about your baby's health, consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Remember that breastfeeding provides important nutrition and immune support for your baby, so continuing to breastfeed even when you're not feeling well is usually recommended. If you have any concerns or questions, don't hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance.