International Board of Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) Practice Exam

In the case of a mother with active herpes lesions, what precautions should be practiced?

1. Isolate the baby completely

2. Avoid any contact between the baby and the affected area

3. Only breastfeed from the affected side

4. Use a breast pump exclusively

The correct answer is: Avoid any contact between the baby and the affected area

The correct approach in managing breastfeeding for a mother with active herpes lesions is to avoid any contact between the baby and the affected area. This is critical to prevent any transmission of the herpes virus. Herpes simplex virus (HSV) can be transmitted through direct contact with the lesions, which may be found on the breast or surrounding areas. By ensuring that the baby does not come into contact with the lesions, the risk of infection is significantly minimized. In addition, it is important to note that herpes lesions can be painful and may impact the mother's ability to breastfeed from the affected side comfortably. If there are lesions on the breast, it would be prudent to ensure that any breastfeeding from that side is avoided until the lesions have healed completely. On the other hand, isolating the baby completely is not necessary and could disrupt the bonding process and breastfeeding relationship. Exclusive pumping could also be an impractical approach, as it may lead to complications such as diminished milk supply or challenges with maintaining an adequate breastfeeding relationship. Thus, careful management that includes avoiding direct contact between the baby and the affected area is the most appropriate precaution.