Breast milk and infection

This article presents an overview of the issues related to breast milk and maternal infection. It reviews specific organisms and infections, and their potential for transmission by way of breast milk. Various factors are discussed that should be considered in making decisions in specific cases of the risk for infection through breastfeeding. Appropriate interventions that are protective against infection in the infant are noted, beyond temporarily withholding breast milk. This article provides important information to support and continue breastfeeding safely in most situations of maternal infection during lactation.