Good news of the day: You can start or continue to breastfeed your child during the COVID19 !

Good news of the day: You can start or continue to breastfeed your child during the COVID19 !

Indeed, during this epidemic period, it is necessary to remember that breast milk is very effective in protecting your newborn from diseases that it may encounter thanks to the antibodies that you transmit to it through breastfeeding.

How does my body produce breast milk?

During your pregnancy, your body will develop an entire capillary network of blood in your breasts. Then, this will allow all the elements that make up breast milk (proteins, lipids, water, carbohydrates, etc.) to be brought to manufacturing cells. This helps prepare for lactation.

When you give birth, your pregnancy hormones will stop being produced. This, allow to a new hormone made by your brain: prolactin to be involve in the process.

This hormone will allow the synthesis and storage of your milk.

Thanks to this process, you will have surges of milk and will therefore be able to breastfeed your child.

But what about breastfeeding and Covid19?

 

Breastfeeding and Covid19

According to scientists on covid19, this virus does not circulate in the blood of patients: breast milk would therefore not be affected by it.

It is even important to support all women who want to start or continue breastfeeding. Indeed, thanks to the antibodies transmitted during feedings, your child's immune system will be strengthened more and more and this will allow your newborn to fight viruses. In case of difficulties, it is essential to refer them to IBCLC lactation consultants, trained breastfeeding professionals or support associations.

To minimize the risks, you can follow the advice provided by Elise CHENEL nursery nurse in the neo-natalogy department of Robert Debré Hospital- FRANCE (Information extracted from the program "La maison des maternelles" on 17.03.2020):

-          Wash your hands well before and after breastfeeding, as well as regularly during the day

-          Wear a mask when you breastfeeding to protect your baby and share a sweet moment with him.

And above all, don't forget! Follow the instructions against COVID19 to protect yourself and your loved ones.

Take care of yourself,

CURVE Team

#Staysafe