Can I breastfeed if I have a fever?

Last reviewed June 19, 2026 by Dr. Sapna Jadhav, General Physician. Sources from ACOG, NHS, Mayo Clinic, CDC, NICE, NIH, Cochrane, and peer-reviewed journals.

Bottom lineUsually yes - for common illnesses you can keep breastfeeding with a fever, and your milk passes protective antibodies; if it's mastitis, keep draining the affected breast and contact your provider, who may prescribe antibiotics.

In most cases, yes - you can and should keep breastfeeding even with a fever. For common illnesses, your milk stays safe, and continuing to feed passes protective antibodies to your baby.

Why continuing usually helps

When you catch a common bug, your body makes antibodies that go into your milk and help protect your baby. Stopping suddenly can also lead to engorgement and blocked ducts.

If the fever is from mastitis

A fever with a red, hot, painful, wedge-shaped area on the breast and flu-like aches may be mastitis. Keep breastfeeding or expressing from that breast - draining the milk is part of the treatment - and contact your provider, as you may need antibiotics.

When to check first

Talk to your provider or pharmacist if:

• You're very unwell, severely dehydrated, or the fever is high and persistent
• You're taking medication and aren't sure it's compatible with breastfeeding
• You have a specific infection you're worried about passing on

Most everyday medicines for fever, like paracetamol, are considered compatible with breastfeeding, but always confirm.

Look after yourself

Rest, drink plenty of fluids, and ask for help so you can recover while continuing to feed.

Femora helps you note symptoms like fever so you can track your recovery.