BREASTFEEDING AND RELACTATION DURING COVID 19 SARS-COV-2 INFECTION PANDEMIA

Abstract

Use of the breast-milk that is the most reliable and natural food for infants is highly important in the global pandemic of SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19). There is such an evidence-based and incontrovertible fact that breastfeeding protects the health of mother and infant. The breast-milk is the first vaccination of the infant and improves the immunization system. The breast-milk has a protective content against many infectious diseases. In the event that mothers are diagnosed with COVID-19 or in contact with the individuals with COVID-19, organizations such as World Health Organization and UNICEF recommend to continue the breastfeeding by complying with the necessary hygiene rules and wearing mask. If the mother is too sick to breastfeed her infant, the breast-milk should be given by using a breast pump. However, the conditions like separation of mother-infant, feeding with artificial food, using a breast pump, use of baby’s bottle, use of medication, inadequate information interrupt the lactation during the infection of COVID-19. This situation may affect the lactation process adversely. As a result of this, the relactation gains importance. Relactation is a state in which women whose breastfeeding ended due to any reason restart to breastfeed their infants. The health professionals notably midwifes/nurses should follow the mothers undergoing COVID-19 closely and give support to mothers in regard to the relactation, if required.