Surgery and the Breastfeeding Infant

When a baby has surgery, it can be a scary experience for the parents and the baby. But the closeness and security of breastfeeding can be very calming and comforting. Surgery may interrupt breastfeeding for a period of time. 

You will have to stop breastfeeding at some point before your baby's surgery. Find out when you can give your last feeding.

In most cases, your baby will be able to breastfeed once they are awake enough to drink liquids without problems, as advised by the healthcare provider. How long this will take will vary. Here are some things you can do to make the experience less stressful:

• You may have to miss 1 or more breastfeeding sessions. Pumping your breasts to express your milk will ease discomfort. It also helps keep up your milk supply. This process will be a little easier if you plan ahead.

• Ask your baby's healthcare provider where you may pump while at the hospital. Electric pumps are often available to use. If you will be missing more than a few nursing sessions and won't be at the hospital all the time, think about renting an electric breast pump if you do not have one of your own.

• Steady milk production depends on effective and regular milk expression until your baby is ready and able to breastfeed again. Pump on the same schedule as your baby would normally breastfeed. Use a double collection kit that lets you pump both breasts at once, if possible. Pump until your breasts are softened and comfortable. This usually takes 10 to 20 minutes on each side. If your baby is a newborn and your milk has not yet come in, pump at least 8 times in 24 hours. You may not see any milk during the first few pumping sessions and you may only get drops for several sessions after that. The milk produced before days 3 to 5 after delivery is called colostrum and it is normally produced in low amounts. Colostrum is very rich in the anti-infective properties that are important for your baby.

• Breastmilk may be frozen for several months. It can also be refrigerated and used within 4 days after pumping. You will need to correctly collect, label, and store your milk. Talk with a certified lactation consultant (IBCLC) for more information about pumping and breastmilk storage.

• In most cases, you can breastfeed when your baby wakes up from the anesthesia. Surgery can be very disruptive, and your baby may not be interested or ready to breastfeed right away. If your baby is not able to breastfeed the normal length of time, you can pump after the feeding. This will empty your breasts and maintain your milk production.

This is a stressful time for your family. You may find that your milk supply is reduced. Take care of yourself. Get rest, eat, and drink enough fluids during this time. This will help you stay healthy and maintain your breastmilk supply.