Mothers who are breastfeeding and experiencing diarrhea might worry about the health of their babies; they may also be concerned about the quality and quantity of their milk supply. Fortunately, most cases of diarrhea go away within a few days without medical treatment. Practicing careful hygiene often prevents the spread of diarrhea to the baby.
Causes
Eating or drinking foods or beverages contaminated with certain bacteria, parasites or viruses can cause diarrhea. If you spend time around other young children, household contact can spread organisms such as rotavirus, causing you to become ill. Taking antibiotics for conditions such as mastitis commonly results in diarrhea while you are breastfeeding. Delivering your baby by c-section could also cause you to experience diarrhea for several days. Stress and anxiety about your milk supply are also frequent causes of diarrhea.
Considerations
You do not need to stop nursing your baby if either of you has diarrhea, advises the Kellymom website. Diarrhea resulting from food poisoning will not result in bacteria or viruses entering your milk and harming your baby. Decreases in your milk supply are not unusual if your diarrhea lasts for more than a day or two, or if you develop vomiting in addition to the diarrhea.
Treatments
If your diarrhea results from a bacterial infection, ask your physician to prescribe a course of antibiotic treatment; mention that you are breastfeeding so that your doctor can ensure the antibiotic is compatible with nursing. Eating a bland diet and staying hydrated with plenty of water and electrolyte drinks can help treat dehydration that often occurs as a result of diarrhea. Before trying any over-the-counter, anti-diarrhea medications, the Mayo Clinic website recommends first checking with your doctor to make sure these medications are safe while breastfeeding.
Prevention
Continue to use proper hand washing and household hygiene to prevent your baby from becoming ill. If you use a breast pump, wash your hands before and after pumping to avoid contaminating the milk collection bottles and pump parts. Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Avoid sugary, caffeinated and alcoholic drinks. Also refrain from consuming foods or beverages containing artificial sweeteners.
Benefits
Continuing to breastfeed your baby while you are ill with diarrhea allows your baby to receive your antibodies against the bacteria or virus causing your illness. These antibodies can protect your baby against infection with the same organism. Taking frequent nursing breaks allows you to put your feet up, rest and regain your strength.
