5 Health Conditions that Can Act as Barriers to Breastfeeding

 

After 9 months of pregnancy, new mothers often look forward to bonding with their baby. Myra, a first-time mother, smiled at her baby as she looked over at him in his crib. The smile only lasted a few seconds before it was replaced with a sniff. 

She looked over in the ward and found another mother breastfeeding her daughter. She wasn’t sure she could ever have that experience with her son due to a health condition diagnosed during pregnancy. Unfortunately, Myra’s concerns are shared by many mothers facing similar challenges. 

This article explores five common health conditions that can impact breastfeeding, addressing questions like: Can I breastfeed with HIV? How do medications affect breastfeeding? Will breastfeeding my baby pose any risk?

What are these health conditions that can affect breastfeeding?

1. HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)

Some years ago, HIV was perceived as an automatic barrier to breastfeeding. Infected mothers then couldn't create the mother-child bond with their child through breastfeeding but thankfully, that isn't the case today.

According to medical research, if a mother is on effective Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) and her viral load is undetectable, she can breastfeed safely under medical supervision. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that mothers living with HIV can breastfeed exclusively for the first 6 months if they are on effective antiretroviral therapy and both mother and baby are being closely monitored. With proper treatment and care, breastfeeding is possible and safe for many mothers living with HIV.

2. Tuberculosis (TB)

Another health condition that requires careful consideration is Tuberculosis. While Tuberculosis can be a source of concern especially with a newborn, breastfeeding is not impossible.

If a mother is on TB treatment and is confirmed not infectious, she can breastfeed safely. In some cases, while still infectious, breast milk can be expressed and given to the baby as long as precautions are taken. This is solely because Tuberculosis is not transmitted through breast milk. However, mothers with Tuberculosis should seek the advice of their doctor before breastfeeding.

3. Drug or Substance Use

Breastfeeding while using certain substances poses risks, as drugs like cocaine, heroin, marijuana, and methamphetamine can pass into breast milk and harm the baby. These drugs can affect the baby's growth, brain development, or breathing.

However, not all drug use means breastfeeding must stop. For example, some mothers recovering from substance use may be on treatment with medications like methadone or buprenorphine. In such cases, breastfeeding may still be possible and even encouraged, but with medical supervision.

4. Sore Nipples 

Sore nipples are one of the most common reasons new mothers feel discouraged about breastfeeding. In the early days of breastfeeding, some discomfort is normal as both mother and baby are new to the process. But, when the pain becomes sharp, continuous, or cracking and bleeding occurs, it’s a sign that something is not right.

The most common cause of sore nipples is poor latching or positioning. Other causes include a yeast infection known as a thrush and tongue-tie in the baby just to name a few. The good news is that sore nipples can be treated and even prevented. Getting help early from a midwife can make all the difference. To ease the pain, mothers are encouraged to use breast milk to soothe the nipple, apply lanolin cream, and adjust the baby’s latch. In severe cases, mothers may express milk and feed their baby with a cup or spoon while the nipples heal. Although sore nipples are common, it shouldn't end the breastfeeding journey.

5. Chronic Illnesses (e.g., Diabetes, Epilepsy, Hypertension)

Mothers living with long-term health conditions can still breastfeed. Many chronic illnesses are now manageable such that mothers can now breastfeed, especially with routine medications.

Interestingly, breastfeeding may help mothers with diabetes regulate blood sugar levels more effectively, and it has been linked to lower risks of heart disease and high blood pressure over time. The key for mothers with chronic conditions is to work closely with healthcare providers to adjust treatment plans to suit their conditions.

Conclusion:

While breastfeeding is natural, it's not always straightforward. Mothers like Myra, facing health challenges, require accurate information, compassionate care, and community support. The Well Child Initiative advocates for informed choices, regardless of health status. If you're unsure about breastfeeding due to a health condition, consult your doctor.

Have you faced breastfeeding challenges due to a health condition? Share your story with us on Instagram or Facebook.

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