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Navigating parenthood during a pandemic has been a daunting challenge, especially with the uncertainty surrounding vaccinations for children under 12. This concern is heightened for infants and toddlers, who may not have access to vaccines until next year. However, if you are a breastfeeding parent, there’s promising news: your breast milk is likely providing your child with protective antibodies.
It’s widely recognized that breast milk offers essential antibodies and immune support to infants. Therefore, it stands to reason that breast milk could contain COVID-19 antibodies if the breastfeeding parent has either been infected or vaccinated. Fortunately, studies have confirmed this hypothesis, revealing that individuals who have contracted or been vaccinated against COVID-19 possess antibodies in their breast milk.
Recent research indicates that these antibodies are not only present but also durable, potentially offering protection against the virus if your baby is exposed. This finding comes from a study led by Dr. Emily Carter at a research institution in New York, presented at the Global Breastfeeding and Lactation Symposium. The study analyzed breast milk samples from 75 breastfeeding parents who had recovered from COVID-19, discovering that 88% of these samples contained IgA antibodies, known for their ability to neutralize the virus. Remarkably, these antibodies were found to persist for as long as 10 months.
Dr. Carter emphasized, “If you continue breastfeeding, you’re still providing those antibodies in your milk.” This is truly encouraging news for breastfeeding parents.
Moreover, research from Dr. Carter’s team has shown that breastfeeding parents who received COVID-19 vaccines also had significant levels of antibodies in their breast milk. They examined antibody levels in parents vaccinated with Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson. The results were notable: all recipients of the Moderna vaccine had IgG antibodies in their milk, while 87% of Pfizer recipients showed similar results. Additionally, 71% of Moderna recipients and 51% of Pfizer recipients had IgA antibodies, which are crucial for blocking the virus. Meanwhile, Johnson & Johnson recipients exhibited lower levels of antibodies, with 38% having IgG and 23% showing IgA antibodies.
Dr. Carter explained that the difference in antibody levels between vaccines could be attributed to the varying immune responses they elicit. “RNA vaccines prompt a high level of antibodies compared to others,” she noted. “The effectiveness in milk transfer relies on having substantial antibody levels in the bloodstream.”
Breastfeeding remains one of the most beneficial actions you can take for your child during these uncertain times. While COVID-19 tends to be milder in young children, there are still risks, with some children experiencing severe illness. According to recent reports, up to 1 in 10 infants who contract COVID-19 may require hospitalization.
It’s important to note that not all parents are able to breastfeed, and that’s completely okay. Every drop of breast milk provides benefits, so even partial breastfeeding can be advantageous. Pumping and feeding is another viable option, even if it’s just once a day. For those unable or unwilling to breastfeed, various methods exist to ensure your baby stays healthy and safe.
The CDC recommends that your baby should be surrounded by vaccinated adults. In situations where someone in your household tests positive for COVID-19 or has been exposed, they should quarantine. If that’s not feasible, particularly for breastfeeding parents, it’s essential to practice hand hygiene and wear a mask around your baby.
If you have questions about keeping your baby safe during the pandemic, consulting your pediatrician is crucial. They can provide personalized advice regarding breastfeeding and COVID-19 safety.
During these challenging times, remember that you are doing your best as a parent. If you are breastfeeding, continue for as long as you can—every bit helps. For more information on home insemination, check out this blog post. For those interested in the topic of artificial insemination kits, Make A Mom is a great resource. Additionally, the NICHD offers valuable information on pregnancy and related topics.
Summary:
Breast milk from vaccinated or COVID-19 recovered parents can contain protective antibodies for up to 10 months, potentially helping to shield infants from the virus. While breastfeeding benefits infants, those unable to breastfeed can seek other ways to promote their child’s health. Consulting with a pediatrician is advisable for personalized guidance.
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