At a glance
Breastfeeding is the best source of nutrition for most infants, except in rare situations. Explore these resources to learn more about breastfeeding with certain maternal and infant illnesses and conditions.
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Birth Defects and Breastfeeding
While breast milk is healthy for infants with birth defects, mothers may need extra support.
Breast Surgery and Breastfeeding
Most mothers who have had breast surgery are able to produce some milk.
When possible, breastfeeding mothers with COVID-19 should continue to breastfeed with precautions.
Ebola Virus Disease and Breastfeeding
Mothers with confirmed or suspected Ebola Virus Disease should not breastfeed their infants.
Foodborne and Waterborne Illness and Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding with travelers' diarrhea can continue while mothers increase their fluid intake.
Herpes Simplex Virus and Breastfeeding
Mothers with HSV can continue to breastfeed with careful precautions.
Mothers with HIV who want to breastfeed need evidence-based counseling on infant feeding options.
Most newborns with jaundice can continue breastfeeding; some may need supplemental feeding.
Influenza (Flu) and Breastfeeding
Mothers with suspected or confirmed flu should take all possible precautions with their infants.
Malaria is not transmitted through breast milk. Most antimalarial medications are safe for mothers.
See CDC's mpox clinical considerations for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding
Mothers with postpartum depression can usually continue to breastfeed with appropriate support.
Toxoplasmosis and Breastfeeding
A breastfeeding mother with toxoplasmosis can continue to breastfeed her infant with precautions.
West Nile Virus and Breastfeeding
A mother infected with West Nile Virus can continue to breastfeed her infant.