Does this sound right? (BFing immunity gone at 3mo) ... plus cold symptoms/advice

[HappyMommy2]

I haven't heard this one before!  The doc just returned my phone call saying that this is "about the time for a baby to get her first cold, because at 3.5 months, mama's in utero immunity has worn off, and now the baby is using her own immune system."

I was under the impression that I continue to give baby my immunity by continuing to breastfeed (EBF).

DD has a dry cough, a hoarse voice when she coos, runny nose, runny eye, and feels slightly warm to the touch.  However, she is still mostly her very happy self.  Drinking and peeing fine.  My question to the doc was: "when to bring her in?".  And I would also welcome your mama-advice on what to watch for!

Of course, reading the internet, I am now worried about croup and pertussis. (Non-vaxed)  I sent DH to the store for Emergen-C for me.  And I started taking probiotics.  Would you give your 3.5mo Sodium Ascorbate mixed with breastmilk on a spoon???

Thanks

[sosurreal09]

yeah the in utero has warn off but she is def geting it in BM. Dd still got cold and has croup a couple times. everything will be fine! sorry NAK a sleepin baby lol

[sosurreal09]

give him a little vit C and echinacea

[PatioGardener]

I would just give baby breast milk. That's what she needs :)

I definitely would not introduce any other supplements or herbs with a 3 month old exclusively breastfed baby. (I'd take vit C myself, however. And vit D too, because I'm up here in the north)

Colds are hard - hope she fights this one off quickly. I was told to bring baby (aged 3-6 months) in for a fever over 38.5 C that went more than 3 days, or if baby was lethargic, or if baby stopped nursing or if pees decreased.

If she becomes reluctant to nurse because of a stuffy nose, I found that nursing in a steamy bathroom was easier for my DS when he was stuffed up. Nose Frieda works well too (but OMG does he hate it!)

[luv my 2 sweeties]

She's definitely getting some immunity from the breastmilk, but it's not perfect immunity.  It will protect her from some viruses and help her get over the viruses she does get, faster.  The things I would watch for in an infant to decide when to take her in:

1) Fever over 104 (though this would probably turn out to be normal, with a tiny babe I'd play it safe, personally, especially the first time it happens.)

2) Your intuition just says "this is not right".  If she's mostly herself but a bit sleepier or more cuddly, I would not worry -- she'll ride it out.  But if something sets off your mommy alarm, pay attention.  This should be pretty rare if your baby is over-all healthy.

3) Dry lips and/or lack of urination, which would indicate dehydration.  I'd try to get her to drink more bm first, but if she can't/won't I wouldn't let dehydration go on for long with an infant.  (This would also be rare.  I've never had one of my babies get so dehydrated that I took them in.  They got enough milk to avoid that, even if they were off their usual quantity.)

4) Symptoms, especially the cough or thick, ropey snot, that seem to getting better for a couple of days, then come back with a vengeance.  (Or that never get better, but take a sudden turn for the worse.) This can be a sign of infection.  This is not so rare, unfortunately, but it doesn't *usually* happen.

I'm sure your LO will make it through without more than discomfort.  Baby colds are no fun, but they build up her personal immunity, so they are at least serving a purpose.  Lots of love, lots of nursing, but not much sleep for you! 

[motherhendoula]

Theres really nothing you can give a baby that young...saline gel or spray - to help loosen a stuffed uo niose....my LO just got over a pretty long cold and taking him in to sit in a steamy bathroom seamed to help a LOT!  Also - Upping your Vit C canthurt...but please remember no sage or peppermint teas for Mama - it may reduce breastmilk supply.  And your pediatrician is not well versed in breastfeeding....oh well!