Breastfeeding during the COVID-19 pandemic: what do we know so far?

Abstract

Objective This study aimed to conduct a literature review on safety in breastfeeding in mothers with COVID-19. An integrative review of national and international literature was carried out. Methods The search took place in the SciELO, LILACS and MEDLINE ® databases. Results A total of 25 scientific articles that specifically addressed the theme of breastfeeding and its risk and protective factors for infection by SARS-CoV-2 were selected. According to the studies analyzed, although the presence of viral RNA had already been detected by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction in breast milk samples, there are still no proven cases of vertical transmission via human milk. Conclusion Breastfeeding appears to be safe if practiced according to precaution measures recommended by the World Health Organization. In addition, there is evidence of a potential for immunological protection by transfer of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 in breast milk. Breastfeeding should continue to be promoted even in cases of mothers with clinical suspicion or confirmation of COVID-19, as well as the provision of expressed breast milk in cases where there is no possibility of direct breastfeeding.

Breastfeeding Practices for COVID-19-Infected Mothers: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

“…As the scientific literature emphasizes the ongoing need for research and counseling on breastfeeding techniques for mothers with COVID-19, it is clear that discrepancies persist, necessitating further investigation to establish optimal health safeguards for both mothers and infants. Amid the complexities of the global healthcare landscape during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, staying abreast of the latest evidence and professional advice is crucial for making informed decisions on breastfeeding practices in the post-pandemic era [ 47 , 48 , 49 , 50 , 51 , 52 , 53 , 54 , 55 , 56 , 57 ].…”

Nutrition in Pediatric Patients and Vulnerable Populations: Updates and Advances

“…In Layman's terms and based on van de Perre's criteria [17], the chances of SARS-CoV-2 being transmitted vertically through breast milk were minimal [16]. Based on the available data, several researchers and authorities continued to promote breastfeeding, even among infected mothers [18][19][20]. However, it appears that in many cases, fear of transmission resulted in the discontinuation of breastfeeding, as seen in Lebanon (contribution 5).…”

Obstetrics Changes Caused by Covid-19

“…In the last decade for all newborns, skin-to-skin contact and rooming-in practices have been highly encouraged from the WHO to increase breastfeeding rates and duration but, at the very beginning of the pandemic, some birth centers didn't allow these practices for the hypothetical risk of infection transmission [26]. Nowadays, many studies have been performed and evidence has proven no difference in the risk of infection of the newborn even when the mother has suspected or confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection and protected rooming-in practice has proven to be safe and effective in supporting breastfeeding [27]. Therefore, international organizations including WHO and UNICEF have continued to support breastfeeding and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends rooming-in combined with safety measures to minimize the risk of transmission, such as wearing a mask and practicing hand hygiene before any contact with the newborn [8,28].…”