Breastfeeding · Lactation · Swimming ·

Swimming While Breastfeeding: What You Should Know

Thinking about going swimming soon and wondering how it will affect your breastmilk supply? You're not alone. The great news is, we got you covered. Check out the information below before you dive in.

Photo by Mykel B Davis

Table of content

How Does Chlorine Affect Breastmilk? Can Chlorine dry up your breastmilk supply Can breastmilk pose as a risk to other swimmers How To Protect Your Supply While Swimming J35 Wearable Pumps

Is It Safe To Swim as a breastfeeding mom?

Swimming while breastfeeding is an excellent way to begin your postpartum fitness journey or have some family fun. It's not uncommon for breastfeeding moms to first learn if chlorine can affect their milk supply in any way before planning a day out.

The great news is, although chlorine can have a strong smell, it is not known to affect breastmilk, milk supply or lactation in any way.

Chlorine is a chemical element, similar to bleach, that is used to remove bacteria. In public swimming areas, chlorine is spread throughout the water to help rid contamination of bodily fluids, and transmitting any infections and diseases from person to person.

While chlorine won't contaminate your breastmilk, it's best to exit the pool before feeding to help prevent swallowing chlorinated water, as this can be harmful to your baby.

Can Chlorine dry up your breastmilk supply

While chlorine is not known to dry up your milk supply, it can however lead to dry and cracking skin, including your nipples.

After swimming, it's important to shower and wash away any chlorine traces from your body to reduce any dehydration and dryness.

When breastfeeding, dry and cracking nipples can often lead to discomfort while feeding, which can make it difficult to latch baby or pump as frequently as needed.

It's important to note, infrequent feeding can result in a dip in your supply.

Can breastmilk pose as a risk to other swimmers

No. Breastmilk does not pose as a risk to other swimmers.

When swimming while breastfeeding in a public pool or area, chlorinated water is used to shield all swimmers from transmitting bacteria from person to person.

Although not necessary, You can use absorbent nipple pads while in the pool to protect against leaks. Be sure that your swimwear is fitted properly and isn't too tight, as this may restrict your milk flow and lead to clogged ducts.

Protecting Your Milk Supply While Swimming

As much as breastfeeding moms would like to have a day of fun without considering pumping, it's inevitable if you want to maintain your milk supply.

Infrequent pumping or expressing milk from the breast can lead to a dip in your milk supply, so it's important to stick to your pumping routine, even while at the pool.

It's much easier to keep up with your routine without missing moments or leaving the poolside when using Muscle Up Mommy J35 wearables.

Although these wearable pumps are NOT intended for water use and should not be used in water, the hands-free and compact design makes it convenient to exit the pool to pump without needing to plug into a wall or miss out on the fun.