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Researchers have reported that after being administered the Pfizer and Moderna vaccine, breastfeeding mothers experienced similar side effects to what was previously reported in non-breastfeeding women.
Additionally, infants exhibited no serious side effects.
These findings are based on a recent study by the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine in the US.
"A mother's first concern is the safety of her child. Our study, along with previous research, suggests the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are not red flags for breastfeeding mothers and their infants," said Dr Chistina Chambers, Professor in the Department of Pediatrics and Family and Preventative Medicine at the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine.
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Of the 180 breastfeeding women involved in the study, more than 85% reported temporary localised symptoms such as pain, redness, swelling or itching at the injection site after receiving the vaccine.
Following the second dose, women who received the Moderna vaccine were significantly more likely to report symptoms.
A small proportion of women noted a reduction in milk supply, though this returned after 72 hours of being vaccinated.
"We also cannot be certain that the supply reduction was a side-effect of the vaccine or another unknown factor," Dr Chambers said, adding that so far, "the vaccine is incredibly effective in providing protection from Covid-19".
"Our results should encourage lactating women to get the Covid-19 vaccine and to continue breastfeeding their infants. They do not have to choose one over the other. Both are critical".
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