Maternal Acute Gastroenteritis
Breastfeeding is perfectly acceptable in mothers that are affected by gastroenteritis, as long as their clinical condition permits it (Lawrence 2016 p.776-791, Appendix D: Precautions and Breastfeeding Recommendations for Selected Maternal Infections).
Medication used in the few diarrhea ailments that require specific pharmacological treatment are compatible with breastfeeding.
The germs, viruses or bacteria that cause gastroentercolitis are not transmitted by milk.
Standard preventive measures (hand washing, use of gloves, meticulous hygiene) and for contact (use of clothes to avoid direct contact with cutaneous areas that may be contaminated) are required to prevent the transmission from mother to child (Lawrence 2016 p.408 -409).
Breast milk contains immunoglobulin A (IgA) and other defensive elements (Coppa 2016) against various infectious diseases, so there is a greater risk of transmission if the mother affected by gastroenteritis interrupts breastfeeding.
Numerous studies have shown the benefits of breastfeeding in preventing morbidity and mortality from gastroenteritis and other infections in communities from poor and developing countries, as well as in industrialized countries (Paris 2006).
Very Low Risk
Compatible. Not risky for breastfeeding or infant.
Low Risk
Moderately safe. Mild risk possible. Follow up recommended. Read the Comment.
High Risk
Poorly safe. Evaluate carefully. Use a safer alternative. Read the Comment.
Very High Risk
Not recommended. Cessation of breastfeeding or alternative.
Synonyms
- Maternal Diarrhea
References
- Lawrence RA, Lawrence RM. Breastfeeding. A guide for the medical profession. Eighth Edition. Philadelphia: Elsevier; 2016
- Coppa GV, Facinelli B, Magi G, Marini E, Zampini L, Mantovani V, Galeazzi T, Padella L, Marchesiello RL, Santoro L, Coscia A, Peila C, Volpi N, Gabrielli O. Human milk glycosaminoglycans inhibit in vitro the adhesion of Escherichia coli and Salmonella fyris to human intestinal cells. Pediatr Res. 2016Abstract
- Paricio Talayero JM, Lizán-García M, Otero Puime A, Benlloch Muncharaz MJ, Beseler Soto B, Sánchez-Palomares M, Santos Serrano L, Rivera LL. Full breastfeeding and hospitalization as a result of infections in the first year of life. Pediatrics. 2006Abstract