Breastfeeding - Management of Common Breastfeeding Issues

Growth Spurts

At some point, every nursing mother will become ill. An acute illness such as a cold, flu, or other common ailment is not a reason to stop nursing. However, if you feel too ill to handle and breastfeed your baby at every feeding then you must pump to maintain your milk supply. If you become ill and need to take an over-the-counter or prescription medication, it is advised that you call your OB/CNM or your baby's health care provider to determine if the medication is compatible with breastfeeding. Most chronic illnesses are compatible with breastfeeding but you should discuss this with your specialist. Sometimes, a mother must pump and throw out the milk and feed the baby a formula temporarily after certain diagnostic tests or medications.