If you’re a parent or pregnant, it is only natural to have questions about what is safest for you and your baby as we live with COVID-19 in our communities.
Many new mothers are concerned about passing COVID-19 to their babies via breastfeeding. However, the transmission of COVID-19 through breastfeeding or by giving breastmilk has not been detected. Breastfeeding and skin-to-skin contact helps your baby to thrive and provides lifelong health benefits. COVID-19 vaccines are recommended for healthy individuals who are lactating or expressing milk. If you have any questions reach out to your healthcare provider.
if you do feel unwell, wear a mask and call 811 for advice. Please see GovNL information on breastfeeding and COVID-19 here. This will be updated regularly if guidelines change. Other helpful resources are below:
For support with COVID-19 during Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:
Breastfeeding Support Group on Facebook
Contact the Baby Friendly NL Team
Helpful Websites and Documents:
Health Canada Pregnancy Advice
Le Leche League Coronavirus Resources
COVID-19 Vaccination and Pregnancy/Breastfeeding:
COVID-19 Planning for your Vaccine Handout (BC Ministry of Health and Centre for Disease Control)
SOGC Statement on COVID-19 Vaccination in Pregnancy
COVID-19 and Infant Feeding Key Messages (Breastfeeding Committee for Canada)
Baby, me and the COVID Vaccine Resource List (Breastfeeding Buddies)
