Certified Lactation Consultant Practice Exam

When both breasts are affected by herpes, temporarily refraining from breastfeeding is advisable to protect the infant from potential transmission of the virus. Herpes simplex virus can be contagious, especially during an active outbreak, and breastfeeding from an infected breast could pose a risk to the baby. By pausing breastfeeding, the mother can ensure that any lesions or blisters do not come into contact with the infant's mucous membranes, which reduces the risk of transmission. It's also important for the mother to seek medical advice to manage her condition and discuss safe options for continuing to feed her baby, such as expressing milk when she’s able, assuming she follows appropriate hygiene practices.

While using a breast pump exclusively and feeding formula during the infection are alternatives, they are not the primary recommendation in this scenario, as direct contact and potential viral transmission risk during an active outbreak are the central concerns. Breastfeeding from one side only is not an ideal solution either, as it still exposes the infant to the potentially affected breast.