With the rapid increase in the need to prepare for the COVID-19 I wanted to share some information on the importance of continuing to breastfeed.
Breastmilk is known for its immunological properties, so continuing to breastfeed is helping to support your baby’s immune system as best as possible. Weaning is not necessary during this time unless medically indicated by your doctors or pediatricians. According to the CDC; In limited studies on women with COVID-19 and another coronavirus infection, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV), the virus has not been detected in breast milk.”
It is important to continue to breastfeed on demand during this time to not disrupt your milk supply. In the event you are unable to breastfeed because you are physically struggling to or separated from your baby, consider hand expression or pumping as an alternative to still pass along the immunological properties.
As with any concern of a virus, good hygiene is encouraged. Hand washing, covering your cough, wearing a mask if indeed positive for the virus are all ways to stop the spread.
If you are struggling with breastfeeding, most private practices are still offering in home visits. Some are offering phone or video visits to support you as best as possible during this difficult time. Please see the list of providers on momunity.co or ribreastfeeding.org
At this time, I am still offering in home visits on a case by case basis but am also offering phone and video consults and some insurances are covering them so they are reimbursable. I am in network with Aetna and Unicare and Aetna is covering them for the next 90 days.
Moms please reach out in regards to lactation support even during this difficult time.
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Reference:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/pregnancy-guidance-breastfeeding.html