Covid vaccine and breastfeeding. Not sure what to do?

[footprintsintheslow]

First things first I'm not an anti vax person.

All my children have all their immunisations.

But I am nervous about having my vaccine whilst feeding. I'm trying to read about it all but the information is either overwhelming or sparse. So the websites either say 'it's fine just have it' or it's to detailed for me to fully understand.

Can anyone point me in the direction of robust information that is accessible or are their other breastfeeding mums who would share their views?

I'm sure this has been done to death on MN but I can't find any threads when I search.

I'm breastfeeding and I'll have it. There are no biological mechanisms for a vaccination to hurt a breastfed baby. The baby will get your antibodies which can only be a good thing.

I won't, virtually no trials on breastfeeding mums, no idea what long term effects are etc. I find it interesting how OP felt the need to specifically mention that she's not an anti vaxxer etc.. No need for that, it's perfectly fine either way!
PS: I am an anti vaxxer

I am intending to carry on breastfeeding as long as possible to ensure my LO benefits from the antibodies through my vaccination.

Where are you all getting your information from to make your decision?

I really appreciate all your replies.

@UnCoffreDor the reason I mentioned not being an anti Vaxer normally is to put my post into some context in case of makes a difference to anyone who might want to respond.

I'm breastfeeding and I'm definitely having it.

It’s absolutely fine and is a benefit for your baby.
@UnCoffreDor it’s not fine either way, people die from conspiracy theories.

I had mine and while breastfeeding. I read loads and it boiled down to yes there is little research however based on vast amounts of research on other vaccines there is highly unlikely to be any risk to baby. Most likely the baby will get vaccine antibodies too.

I’ve had my first dose and I’m breastfeeding. Was thrilled to get it.

I was offered the vaccine in pregnancy as I'm Group 6 but this was before the new advice for pregnant women to take it. I spoke to a consultant and my GP about it and we discussed the benefits and risks. Both discussed in detail with me how there is no known risk for these types of vaccine with breastfeeding and in fact immunity may be passed through the breast milk to the child.

Here is a good article

news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2021/03/study-shows-covid-19-vaccinated-mothers-pass-antibodies-to-newborns/

Worth remembering that it isn’t anything in the vaccine itself that the baby gets from your breastmilk, it’s the antibodies made by your own body. Just like antibodies you make if you are exposed to someone with a cold.

I went for the vaccine in the end. Thanks everyone

Hi OP, just to reassure you that I made the same call as you. Had first dose of AZ in Feb when bub was 6 weeks, and 2nd AZ dose a couple of weeks ago at 4 months. No ill effects to either of us so far (touch wood!) There was a supervising medic at the vaccination centre who I discussed with back in Feb and he was very happy to advise me to get it and hopefully pass antibodies to bub via breastmilk... I believe for now that it's the right call based on medical information available. Best of luck!