With the uncertainty that the COVID-19 pandemic brings, we are left with many, many questions. What is the mechanism of the virus? When will the cure come? For a lactating mother, the scariest question might be this—how will I feed my baby when I turn out to be positive for COVID-19?
While a lot of questions are still left unanswered, one evidence-based truth is that breastmilk remains a safe and rich source of nutrients for infants; there is currently no evidence that documents the transmission of the COVID-19 virus through breastmilk. A mother positive for COVID-19 is highly encouraged to continue breastfeeding with the strict observance of precautionary measures such as wearing a face mask and regularly washing her hands with soap and water.
However, there are extreme cases where a mother is too sick to breastfeed or express milk. Infants should still be fed with breastmilk, but alternative methods will have to be explored. One may use a wet nurse to feed the baby. Another choice is to use donor breastmilk sourced from a human milk bank.
Many presume that donor breastmilk is unsafe because of the risk of infection from a donor mother, which drives families to the decision of using infant formula. However, this presumption is false. Human milk banks place great value on the safety and quality of the donations. Interested donors must first go through a rigorous screening process for the presence of any infection. Donor breastmilk is also tested for bacteria and is pasteurized thoroughly to kill bad bacteria and viruses.
Unlike formula milk, donor breastmilk contains immunoglobulins which help protect babies from disease and strengthen their immune systems. Breastmilk is also easier to digest compared to formula milk. Breastfed babies are less prone to diarrhea and constipation.
It is important for mothers and their families to know that there are perfectly safe alternatives when mother’s own milk (MOM) is not available. Through human milk banks, babies will still be able to get the nourishment that they need for proper growth and development. This only goes to show how lifesaving and protective breastfeeding can be, especially in the middle of this health crisis.
Whenever possible, it is still best that the baby receives breastmilk directly from the mother. Mothers who are positive for COVID-19 must also be encouraged to breastfeed once they feel well enough to do so. But as long as they are unable to nurse their children, let us remember that there are human milk banks ready to extend help to mothers and infants in need. (RGRG/MEVF/NNC-NCR)
For more information on breastmilk donation and human milk banks, you may visit https://www.nnc.gov.ph/regional-offices/luzon/national-capital-region/3769-donating-breastmilk-is-possible-amid-covid-19.
References
- https://hmb.ph/
- Human Milk Bank Association of the Philippines Statement on Human Milk Banking in the Time of Covid-19 Pandemic
