During the current times of the Covid-19 pandemic where every one of us is trying to be perfect in adhering to the Covid-19 precautions and following hygiene regimes like never before, but there is still a lot of information out there which people are still discovering. From washing our hands numerous times in a day to the usage of disinfectants and sanitisers, we are trying to do whatever it takes to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe and protected from infections and diseases. Talking about precautions, there are basic steps that everyone is aware of and must be following as per the advisories of health experts.
We understand that the outbreak of this pandemic and subsequent lockdowns have been tough and stressful for everyone, especially for new mothers who are breastfeeding and concerned about their baby’s health. In usual times, new parents could seek out social support and external help — but in current times given the restricted movements and social distancing, they have a lot of doubts and questions in their minds regarding breastfeeding and possible infections.
Here are some do’s and don’ts to get every new mom started on the right foot to safely breastfeed during the pandemic.
• First and foremost, breastfeed the baby: As soon as the child is delivered, the child must be breastfed within the very first hour. This is because Colostrum, that is the milk secreted during the first three days by the mother is rich in proteins and anti-infective nutrients that help build the child’s immunity and is essential for his healthy growth & development.
• Practice simple yet crucial hygiene measures while breastfeeding: to ensure that cleanliness and keeping viruses/infections at bay, it is essential to practice the basic hygiene steps such as washing hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after touching your baby.
• Wearing a face mask: It has been seen that some moms also wear a face mask while nursing especially if someone else is sick in the house. Therefore, to protect the baby fully, mothers may choose to wear a mask during feeding as a routine.
• Regular Disinfection of baby utilities: Apart from following the basic hygiene practices, new mothers must regularly and thoroughly clean and sterilise all baby feeding products after every use. If using a disinfectant for cleaning the products or surfaces, it is advisable to use a disinfecting liquid specially formulated for cleaning baby products or one must use sterilisers for cleaning baby utilities.
• Mothers must pay attention to their health: The challenges of new mothers can certainly feel overwhelming sometimes. Rest as much as you can — try sleeping when the baby does. Find time for yourself and relax when your partner or other caring adult watches the baby.
• Connect with family and friends: We understand that social distancing during the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic can be isolating. Try video chats or social media to stay in touch with relatives and friends. This can help new mothers with emotional and social support.
• Precautions: While being sick, it is essential to take extra precautions like keeping distance from the baby, cleaning the breast pumps or spoons used to feed the baby, avoid touching the baby’s face, eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands etc. Also, be sure to clean visibly dirty or possibly contaminated surfaces your infant may touch.
Every new mom can be considerably worried to keep their newborn safe during the Covid-19 pandemic, but they should remember that Breastfeeding has many important health benefits for babies and mothers both and must be continued with precautions and guidance from the paediatrician or the doctor whenever necessary.
The writer is CEO, Artsana India (Chicco), in assistance with Chicco Research Centre.
We understand that social distancing during the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic can be isolating. Try video chats or social media to stay in touch with relatives and friends. This can help new mothers with emotional and social support.