Illness or Surgery

Not sure if it's okay to breastfeed baby when you're sick? Just had surgery and think you can't breastfeed until you heal? If you're worried that an illness, surgery, or other condition will effect your breastfeeding and interfere with feeding baby, browse through our Q&As and see if your questions are answered here.

you asked...

Q&A: What if I get food poisoning?

Q&A: If I get food poisoning, should I avoid nursing my baby?

Q&A: Breastfeeding after chemotherapy?

Can I resume breastfeeding after I finish chemotherapy?

Illness or Surgery While Breastfeeding: What you need to know

Breastfeeding is a challenge enough on its own, but throw in illness or surgery to the mix, and things probably feel really confusing...and maybe even a little scary. In this section of Breastfeeding.com, we'll tell you all about common and not-so-common concerns surrounding breastfeeding with illness, breastfeeding while sick, surgery effects on breastfeeding and more. We'll also let you know what happens when baby seems to be getting sick, and how to keep on breastfeeding (or when to potentially take a break). If you've had a breast augmentation or reduction and are wondering how that will affect your ability to nurse, this is also the right place to come. We'll cover everything from breastfeeding with a fever to breastfeeding after chemo, and let you know what the right way to go in all these situations (and everything in between) is. The meds you're on might also make you wary about breastfeeding, whether they're for a urinary tract infection or postpartum depression. Sometimes, the best answer will turn out to be weaning baby, and we'll walk you through that entire process. If you're a mama who has been through breastfeeding with illness, breastfeeding while sick or experienced surgery effects on breastfeeding, give us your feedback! New moms going through the same situation right now will appreciate the help and experience, as well as the companionship. Good luck, and remember, whatever you're going through--you still have a beautiful little baby at home to show for it.

more about illness or surgery while breastfeeding