The COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns have been quite tough particularly for expectant and new mothers. One of the chief concern areas for them has been breastfeeding their little ones in the current scenario. Dr. Reenu Jain, Senior Consultants, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Jaypee Hospital, Noida Debunk the myths around breastfeeding and possible infection.
The COVID-19 virus does not spread during the time of delivery; there is no vertical transmission like the HIV virus. The only possibility it might infect the new born is through air post birth from the the infected person. Even if a mother is on her treatment for COVID-19, she can feed the baby following some precautions.
As soon as the child is delivered, it is crucial that the baby gets the breast milk after being wrapped well. It should be ensured that the mother is wearing the protective equipment while feeding the baby. The child requires breast milk for building immunity and nutrition value for the first three days as the first milk called colostrum is present in it. Hence, it is recommended that mothers wear protective kits and feed the baby. However, this can be avoided if the mother is in a critical condition.
PRECAUTIONS
Here are some breastfeeding do’s and don’ts for mothers to follow during the pandemic.
Do’s
- Wash your hands before and after touching the baby.
- Wear a mask properly while nursing.
- Wash your hands before touching the breast pump or bottle parts. Clean and sterilise all parts of the feeding equipments after each use.
- Feed the baby for 10 minutes from both breasts simultaneously and immediately give the baby to the attendant.
- Feed your baby from both the breasts equally.
- One can also use a feeding chair for back support and pillow to avoid strain on hands.
- Cradle, football or reclining position is recommended for greater comfort.
- Keep a 6 feet distance between mother and baby after the feeding is done.
- The spouse and family members should take precautions and do babysitting.
Don’ts
- Overexpose yourself to the baby if you are COVID-19 positive or with mild symptoms.
- Compromise with personal hygiene.
RECOMMENDED DIET
A mother’s milk acts as the first immunisation, providing holistic nutrition and immunity against infections to the newly born child. Below are some dietary recommendations for new mothers:
- Make sure to inculcate lot of fresh leafy vegetables like spinach and maintain a high protein diet. Add pulses, chickpeas, sprouts, oats, fennel, bottle gourd, drumstick leaves in your diet to help increase the production of breast milk.
- Keep hydrated and maintain fluid content in the body by having freshly prepared juices, and soups.
- Eat vitamin C and antioxidant rich foods.
- Avoid taking spicy food as it causes acidity and can affect the baby.
SUPPORT AND COUNSELLING
Considering the current situation, some expectant women or new mothers may suffer depression or anxiety, especially if she tests positive or suffers mild symptoms. Hence, partner’s and family’s support in daily chores is a must to keep everyday worries at bay for the new mother.
New mothers must be given at least one counselling session regarding breastfeeding before they get discharged from the hospital. Thereafter, these sessions can continue online every week so that the new mother is more positive and clear about breastfeeding. Sometimes partners’ support is essential to help fit the baby in the right feeding position.
While tackling COVID-19 is the top priority of the healthcare system, community support, partner’s involvement and the right diet may help new mothers fight anxiety especially during these difficult times.