Are there cases in which it is better not to breastfeed?
When is it Better Not to Breastfeed?
There are some factors to consider before breastfeeding your baby. We have compiled a list of some reasons breastfeeding may not work for you. In any case, it is of utmost importance that you consult with your health care provider and be certain that breastfeeding is safe. Most everything you put into your body can be transferred to your baby through breast milk.
- Some medicines, especially mood stabilizers and migraine medications, can be transferred to your baby through your breast milk.
- If you are taking any over-the-counter medications, prescriptions, or herbs, check with your doctor.
- If you have tuberculosis
- If you have a history of alcohol abuse or currently have an alcohol problem
- If you have a history of illegal drug use, or are currently using drugs
- If you have certain chronic illnesses (your doctor can advise you)
- If you have diabetes, you must eat a bit more to insure your blood sugar will not drop
- If you have had breast surgery, breastfeeding may not work for you
- If you HIV/AIDS
Other Breastfeeding Symptoms
There may be times when breastfeeding becomes too discouraging. You may wonder if you should stop nursing your baby. If any of the following happen, do no give up easily. You can still successfully breastfeed.
- Engorgement or hardening of the breasts
- Breast abscess
- Sore, cracked, or bleeding nipples
- Fever
- Use of antibiotics or some pain medications
If your breasts become engorged or hardened, it may solve your problem if you empty them by hand expressing or with a breast pump. The best way is to see if your baby will nurse away the excess milk. In the first few days of breastfeeding, it is normal for your breasts to become very tender, chapped, cracked and very sore. Ask your doctor about what creams or ointments your can safely use to help them heal quickly and are still safe for baby. In any case, the tenderness will go away as your nipple get used to nursing. In the case of antibiotic or pain medication use, your doctor can advise what is safe.
