Studies have shown that women with cystic fibrosis can successfully breastfeed their babies. Find answers to some common questions about breastfeeding and CF.
Q: Does breast milk in women with cystic fibrosis contain enough nutrients for the baby?
A: Breast milk in women with CF has been shown to have normal amounts of protein and electrolytes but may be a little deficient in certain fatty acids. If the baby is not growing properly, the pediatrician may recommend supplementing with formula.
Q: How many calories does a breastfeeding mother with CF need to eat?
A: It is very important for the breastfeeding mom with CF to eat enough calories to maintain her own weight and produce nutritious milk for her baby. This will require about 500 calories per day more than the mother’s usual caloric requirements. The CF nutritionist will develop a diet plan for mom to make sure she is getting enough calories.
Q: What about the mother’s medications? Will they pass into the breast milk and cause harm to the baby?
A: Many medications do pass into the breast milk but they are not necessarily harmful. A mom who is planning to breastfeed should review her list of medications with her obstetrician. If any are unsafe for nursing, the mother should discuss it with her CF team to find out if there is a suitable substitute that is safe for the baby.
Q: Can a baby catch cystic fibrosis from breast milk?
A: No. Cystic fibrosis is not a contagious disease. It is caused by a genetic defect. If a baby is not born with CF, he or she will never get the disease.
Source:
Edenborough, F.P., Borgo ,G. , Knoop,C., Lannefors ,L., Mackenzie ,W.E., Madge,S., Morton,A.M., Oxley, H.C., Touw, D.J., Benham , M., Johannesson, M. “Guidelines for the Management of Pregnancy in Women with Cystic Fibrosis”. Journal of Cystic Fibrosis 7 (2008) S2–S32. 21 June 2008.
