As COVID concerns increase, so do the questions parents have about keeping their children safe.
One question I've gotten several times is, "Can I still breastfeed my baby during COVID-19?" Moms are often anxious anyway about their babies, and a lot of what is in the news is increasing everyone's anxiety right now. I've had several moms ask me if they can transfer their anxiety to their babies by breastfeeding. The good news is no. Actually, continuing to breastfeed their babies will help their anxiety, and it's a great bonding experience for both mom and baby. Also, by breastfeeding, they are still getting their babies all the good immune system boosters found in breast milk.
A lot of new moms also find that breastfeeding isn't as easy as they make it look in the movies. I know it was a struggle for both of my boys. I had five lactation specialists working with me, and it just wasn't happening. I needed to supplement with both, but I felt so bad. The bottom line is keep breastfeeding as much as you can. Pump and give him a bottle if you have to. That's what I ended up doing, and I still had to supplement. And if you need help, there are many resources available. Talk to your pediatrician about what is best for you and your baby.
