Breastfeeding support for a puerperal with COVID-19: a case report

Abstract

To prevent infection in newborns, early mother–infant contact and rooming, which are important for breastfeeding, are difficult for puerperas diagnosed with coronavirus disease 2019 （COVID-19）. A university hospital also separates mothers and infants as a preventive measure against infection in newborns; thus, effective breastfeeding support must be considered under these circumstances. Herein, a 30-year-old puerperal （gravida 1 para 0） who was diagnosed with COVID-19 delivered a 2,973-g newborn through cesarean section at 38 weeks and 5 days of gestation. She was under a lot of stress after being diagnosed with COVID-19, and we encouraged her to lactate, which was effective support until the actual breastfeeding. Additionally, we believe that （1） showing respect for self-determination, （2） making puerperals aware of what they can do as mothers, （3） providing support for coping behaviors to address difficulties in breastfeeding, and （4） giving immediate postpartum support serve as support for continuing breastfeeding. Moreover, uninterrupted and continuous support is necessary from birth to 4 months of age.