BFing baby during stomach bug (mine)

[teamnomistake]

I have horrendous D&V right now, I can't even keep water down. I've been washing my hands lots to avoid passing it on, but am wondering if it's affecting my milk supply.

I'm exclusively BFing DS2 (4 months)and he wanted feeding 4 times last night instead of the usual once.

Would it be a good idea to give him formula - to fill him up and give me more chance to produce more milk? Or should I just ride this out? Any advice gratefully received.

[onimolap]

Ride it out, if you can. You've already exposed your DS to the germs, and so your antibodies will help him.

But you do need to watch out for dehydration. If you cannot keep water down, you are at risk and the demands of BFing will only exacerbate it. Try having small amounts (maybe equivalent to just an egg cupful) very very frequently.

[Lastyearsmodel]

Giving formula will decrease your supply. Frequent bf increases supply.

Keep on doing what you're doing, careful hygiene, etc (although your magic milk already contains the right antibodies) and what onimolap says about fluids. Speak to GP if at risk of dehydration - they can prescribe rehydration salts. Think you can buy them otc too?

I had a nasty bug when dd1 was 5wo - she didn't get it and we successfully bf til 15mo.

It's a grim time, you have my every sympathy.

[pozzled]

Agree with the others, keep feeding if it all possible as those antibodies are so important for your DS. Just try to take as much fluid as you can, small amounts but often.

I had this when DD was little and I do sympathise, you just feel so exhausted. Do you have plenty of support, someone who can help to look after your DS and just bring him to you for feeds so you can rest?

[flickor]

I have just had this and phone up NHS direct - a nurse called me and said keep feeding through. Baby caught he bug but just told to keep feeding. Your immune system will produce antitoxins which can pass into your breastmilk and will give passive immunity to your baby.

[poppydog10]

I had this for 3 days and it was horrible. The best thug you can do is keep feeding your baby as the antibodies will give her protection against it, formula won't. Formula to replace feeds would also affect your milk supply. I know it's difficult but just keep sipping water - your body will prioritise your milk and just wait for the sickness to pass.