What Diseases Can Be Passed Through Breast Milk?
Breast milk is considered one of the most nutritious and beneficial sources of nutrition for infants. It provides essential vitamins, minerals, and antibodies that help protect newborns from infections and diseases. However, like any biological fluid, breast milk can also transmit certain diseases and infections from the mother to the baby. In this article, we will discuss the diseases that can be passed through breast milk.
HIV and Other Blood-Borne Viruses
HIV, the virus that causes Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), can be transmitted through breast milk. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), breastfeeding can increase the risk of mother-to-child transmission of HIV. The risk is highest in areas where HIV prevalence is high and antiretroviral therapy (ART) is not available.
| Risk Factors | Prevalence in High-HIV-Prevalence Areas | Prevalence in Low-HIV-Prevalence Areas |
|---|---|---|
| Un-treated HIV infection | 22-30% | 0.1-2.1% |
| Untreated syphilis | 1.5-5.1% | <0.1% |
| Untreated bacterial vaginosis | 1.3-5.5% | <0.1% |
Other blood-borne viruses, such as Hepatitis B and C, can also be transmitted through breast milk. The risk of transmission is generally lower than with HIV, but it is still significant in areas where these viruses are prevalent.
Cytomegalovirus (CMV)
CMV is a common viral infection that can be transmitted through breast milk. It is usually asymptomatic in adults but can cause serious illness in newborns, particularly those born prematurely. The risk of transmission is highest during the first few months after birth.
Toxoplasma gondii
Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan parasite that can cause toxoplasmosis. It can be transmitted through breast milk if the mother is infected with the parasite. Toxoplasmosis can cause serious illness in newborns, particularly those born prematurely.
Syphilis
Syphilis is a bacterial infection that can be transmitted through breast milk. If the mother is untreated, there is a risk of transmitting the infection to the baby. Syphilis can cause serious complications, such as stillbirth, and can increase the risk of HIV transmission.
Cryptococcus neoformans
Cryptococcus neoformans is a fungal infection that can be transmitted through breast milk. It is usually found in areas where there is poor sanitation and can cause serious illness in newborns.
Herpes simplex virus (HSV)
HSV is a viral infection that can be transmitted through breast milk. HSV can cause serious illness in newborns, particularly if the mother has a cold sore or other skin lesion.
Hepatitis E
Hepatitis E is a viral infection that can be transmitted through breast milk. It is usually asymptomatic in adults but can cause serious illness in newborns.
What Can Women Do to Reduce the Risk of Transmission?
If a woman is infected with one of these diseases or viruses, there are several steps she can take to reduce the risk of transmission to her baby:
• Antiretroviral therapy (ART): If the woman is infected with HIV, treatment with ART can significantly reduce the risk of transmission to the baby.
• Breast milk expression: Expressing breast milk by hand or with a pump can help reduce the amount of virus present in the milk.
• Washing and cleaning: Thoroughly washing and cleaning the breast pump and storage containers can help reduce the risk of transmission.
• Freezing and discard: Freezing and subsequently discarding breast milk from an infected mother can reduce the risk of transmission.
Conclusion
Breast milk is a valuable source of nutrition for infants, but it can also transmit certain diseases and infections from the mother to the baby. Women who are infected with HIV, syphilis, or other diseases should take steps to reduce the risk of transmission to their baby. It is important for healthcare providers to provide guidance and support to mothers who are infected with these diseases and to educate them on the importance of protecting their baby’s health. By taking these steps, we can ensure that breastfeeding is safe and beneficial for both mother and baby.