Is it safe for a breastfeeding mother to give her milk to another infant?

Answer by  Rose (6804)

Yes it is, in fact back in olden days royalty would not breast feed their own children, other mothers would do the job for them. Often breast milk is sold to NICU's to be given to medically fragile children as well. Just follow all safe guidelines.

Answer by  Elle11 (44)

If you know the mother's medical history it is 100% better than any formula. Contraindications would be HIV positive and Hepatitis C. Also medications, alcohol and other substances are transferred into breastmilk, so her health habits are important as well.

Answer by  cbswilsonsresortcom (53)

The entire concept of the wet nurse is based on the fact that any breast feeding mother can feed any infant. Just remember that whatever the mother eats or ingests will transfer to the infant. An infant will gather the immunities from the breast milk of the provider of the milk.

Answer by  Gunrunner (561)

If the breastfeeding mother and the infant are in good health to start with, there should be no problems. Women who provide this service regularly are known as "wet nurses".

Answer by  Elle11 (44)

Most cities and some hospitals employ IBCLC's (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant). They are the true experts on breastfeeding. Check your phone book or La Leche League to get accurate information.