Cold Remedies While Breastfeeding: Safe Options for Moms
Catching a cold while breastfeeding can be exhausting, especially when balancing self-care and caring for your little one. The good news is that many remedies—both natural and medicinal—are safe to use while nursing. Breastfeeding itself provides your baby with powerful immune-boosting antibodies, helping protect them from illness. Below, we’ll explore safe and effective ways to manage cold symptoms while breastfeeding, based on guidance from the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine (ABM) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
General Principles for Cold Remedies While Breastfeeding
Safety First: Use remedies or medications in moderation and choose those with minimal ingredients.
Single-Symptom Medications: Opt for medications that target only the symptom you want to treat to minimize unnecessary exposure for your baby.
Consult Your Provider: If you’re unsure about a remedy, reach out to your healthcare provider or lactation consultant.
Natural Remedies to Ease Cold Symptoms
1. Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of fluids such as water, herbal teas (e.g., chamomile, ginger, or peppermint), or warm broths. Hydration helps thin mucus and soothes a sore throat.
Lemon and Honey Tea: Mix warm water with fresh lemon juice and honey to relieve cough and throat irritation.
2. Use Steam Therapy
Inhale steam from a bowl of hot water or take a steamy shower to clear nasal congestion and moisturize dry sinuses.
Add a few drops of eucalyptus oil (check safety with your provider) for added relief.
3. Saline Nasal Rinse
A saline spray or rinse with a neti pot can safely clear nasal passages and ease congestion.
4. Garlic and Ginger
Garlic has antimicrobial properties, while ginger can soothe inflammation. Add these to soups or steep ginger slices in hot water for a comforting tea.
5. Warm Compress
Use a warm compress across your sinuses to relieve pressure from nasal congestion.
6. Restorative Foods
Chicken Soup: Packed with nutrients, chicken soup has anti-inflammatory properties and can soothe sore throats.
Citrus Fruits: Oranges, grapefruits, and other citrus fruits provide vitamin C, which supports immune health.
Bone Broth: Rich in protein and minerals, it’s nourishing and hydrating when you’re under the weather.
7. Rest and Relaxation
Whenever possible, carve out time for rest. Sleep helps your immune system recover faster. If family or friends can assist with childcare, accept the help to recharge.
Safe Over-the-Counter Remedies for Breastfeeding Mothers
Pain or Fever Relief
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin): Safe options for reducing fever, relieving pain, and easing body aches.
Decongestants
Saline Sprays or Nasal Strips: Completely safe and drug-free ways to relieve congestion.
Pseudoephedrine: Can be used, but this may reduce milk supply significantly in some mothers. Use with caution.
Phenylephrine: Generally considered safe but less effective than pseudoephedrine. Use with caution, can reduce supply in mothers.
Antihistamines
Loratadine (Claritin) or Cetirizine (Zyrtec): Non-drowsy options that are safe for nursing mothers, can reduce supply.
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl): May cause drowsiness for both you and your baby, so use sparingly, can reduce supply.
Cough Suppressants and Lozenges
Dextromethorphan: Found in many OTC cough suppressants and considered safe.
Honey-Based Cough Drops: Simple, effective, and soothing for a sore throat (only for adults and children over 1 year).
Additional Tips to Protect Your Baby While You’re Sick
Wash Hands Frequently: Reduce the spread of germs by washing your hands often, especially before nursing or handling your baby.
Wear a Mask: If you’re coughing or sneezing, wearing a mask can provide extra protection.
Continue Breastfeeding: Your breast milk contains antibodies that help protect your baby from illness and may lessen the severity if they do catch a cold.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Most colds resolve on their own within 7–10 days, but consult your healthcare provider if:
Symptoms worsen or do not improve after 10 days.
You develop a high fever or signs of a bacterial infection.
You are unsure about the safety of a specific medication or remedy.
Conclusion
Cold symptoms can feel like an added burden during an already busy time as a breastfeeding mom. Fortunately, a combination of natural remedies and safe medications can help you recover while maintaining your breastfeeding routine. Whether it’s sipping ginger tea, inhaling steam, or taking a soothing OTC medication, you have plenty of options to feel better quickly.
Remember, breastfeeding offers your baby a protective shield of antibodies to help them stay healthy during your illness. If you have questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider or lactation consultant for personalized advice.
Take care, rest up, and feel better soon!
