EP 42: Do This to Avoid RSV: The Immune Power of Breastfeeding
As cold and flu season approaches, new moms are naturally concerned about RSV
(respiratory syncytial virus), a virus that can lead to serious complications in infants. Thankfully, breastfeeding offers incredible immune support that can help reduce the risk. In this blog, let’s explore how breastfeeding can help prevent RSV and what you can do if your little one contracts it.
What is RSV?
RSV is a common virus that presents as cold-like symptoms in older children and adults. However, in babies under six months or those with weakened immune systems, RSV can become serious, potentially leading to bronchiolitis or pneumonia. With an RSV shot not always available, breastfeeding can be a natural way to boost your baby’s defenses.
How Breastfeeding Protects Against RSV
Breast milk is more than just nutrition – it’s packed with antibodies, white blood cells, and protective proteins like lactoferrin that help your baby fight off infections. Even a few months of breastfeeding (ideally four to six) can significantly lower the risk of RSV and other illnesses.
Breast Milk’s Immune Boosters Include:
- Antibodies – Essential for fighting infections
- White Blood Cells – Strengthen your baby’s immune system
- Lactoferrin – A protein with antiviral properties
- Vitamins and Antioxidants – Support overall immune health
Tips for Feeding a Baby with RSV
If your baby does catch RSV, feeding can be challenging due to congestion. Here’s what you can do:
- Frequent, Short Feeds: Helps keep your baby hydrated without overwhelming them.
- Use Saline Drops: Clear congestion before feeds with saline drops and a bulb syringe.
- Steam Sessions: Sit with your baby in a steamy bathroom before feeding to help clear their nasal passages.
- Humidify the Room: Keeping air moist at night can make breathing (and feeding) easier.
The Bump to Bundle Blueprint
Preparing for birth and breastfeeding can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. My Bump to Bundle Blueprint course walks you through every step of pregnancy, birth, and breastfeeding so you’re fully prepared when baby arrives.
Breastfeeding isn’t just about nutrition; it’s a powerful way to help keep your baby safe, especially during their first year. From reducing RSV risks to supporting overall growth and immunity, breast milk truly is your baby’s first line of defense.
Want more insights on pregnancy and newborn care? Subscribe to my YouTube channel for weekly videos that help you prepare for a confident, healthy journey into motherhood!
Resources Available:
3 Mistakes Pregnant Moms Make When Preparing for Their First Birth (+ what to do instead) https://www.birthprepacademy.com/masterclass
Prepare for your first hospital birth with a stress-free birth blueprint in 6 weeks!
COMPLIMENTARY GUIDE
How To Skyrocket Your Milk Supply (...from birth and beyond) https://www.birthprepacademy.com/milksupply
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Hi! I'm Stephanie!
Stephanie Poole
Creator, Bump To Bundle Blueprint®
Most women struggle with preparing for birth. So, I created an academy that helps new moms prepare for their FIRST hospital birth. Birth Prep Academy helps Mamas (like you) transition into motherhood...Like A Boss!
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If you think you need help preparing for your birth...you do! Learn how to prepare for your first birth faster than you can say:
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In just 60 minutes you'll learn:
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The top 3 mistakes first-time moms make when preparing for birth (AND why it could cost you a positive birth experience)
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The secret to transitioning into motherhood...LIKE A BOSS!
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My 3-step framework to create a stress-free birth plan without getting overwhelmed.
