When a baby has a cold, they will sometimes refuse to breastfeed because they are experiencing congestion, pain from a sore throat or pressure from an ear infection. If this occurs, try the following:
- Nurse your baby more frequently than usual. Try to breastfeed every hour, for a shorter time.
- If your child refuses the breast, try feeding from a dropper, spoon or syringe.
- Freeze your milk until it turns slushy and then serve it with a spoon. This way baby will still get the nutrients and sustenance he or she needs.
Breastmilk is not considered a dairy or milk product, so it will not make your child’s congestion worse or dehydrate them. A mother’s milk is a baby’s best medicine, containing vital antibodies to fight illness. It also provides your child comfort, which is without a doubt the most important part of the healing process.