Provider Resources

Information by Organization

WHO – New FAQ addresses healthcare workers questions about breastfeeding and COVID-19, including a decision tree.  Story | FAQ Document

WHO – Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Infographics (available in all UN languages, click top of the page to access translated pages).

WHO – Q&A on Pregnancy and Childbirth

Global Breastfeeding Collective – Key Messages on Breastfeeding and COVID-19 

SafelyFed Canada & Save the Children – Infant Feeding in the Context of COVID-19: FAQ for frontline health & nutrition workers 

UNICEF – COVID-19 IYCF Counselling Cards

U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Key Messages

Covid-19 & Breastfeeding

Excerpt: According to the World Health Organization (WHO), transmission of active COVID-19 (virus that can cause infection) through breast milk and breastfeeding has not been detected to date. There is no reason to avoid or stop breastfeeding.

Please see the links to organizations' statements regarding the vaccine.

AAP StatementABM StatementMFM StatementCDC Statement

COVID-19 Vaccine & Breastfeeding

Excerpt: According to the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine (ABM) "it is unlikely that the intact nanoparticle or mRNA would transfer into human milk" and "in the unlikely event that mRNA is present in milk, it would be expected to be digested by the child and would be unlikely to have any biological effects." For now, lactating women are asked to assess their own risks for the virus versus the benefits of vaccination. Additionally, we know that milk cannot transmit the virus, therefore human milk donors who receive the vaccine will be permitted to continue donating. WHO does not recommend discontinuing breastfeeding after vaccination.

Please see the links to organizations' statements regarding the vaccine.

AAP StatementMFM StatementCDC StatementWHO Statement

COVID-19 Positive & Hospitals Stays

Excerpt: According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Mothers and newborns may room-in during their hospital stay. The mother should maintain a reasonable distance from her infant, wear a mask, and perform hand-hygiene when possible.

Please see the links to organizations' statements regarding the vaccine.

ABM StatementMFM StatementCDC StatementWHO Statement

FREE Online Breastfeeding Education for Providers

Community Health Training Institute (3 Hrs). Click Here.