After Pregnancy breastfeeding is a lovely event to every women. By nature after pregnancy with in 2 to 5 days breasts get enlarge then the normal. Nipple get darker & thick. This change happens due to pregnancy hormone. Post pregnancy pregnancy hormone stimulates milk producing tissues to produce milk. In this duration due to rapid blood flow you can found little pain in your breast areas. Breastfeeding is not a chapter of 1 or 2 days job it goes upto several years. In this session let us share breast care tips for breastfeeding Moms.
Wash your Nipples
After breastfeeding wash your Nipples well. This is hygienic for your baby as well as protect your from Skin infections. During you wash your Nipples take a soft wet cotton. Using this rub you nipple slowly until it clean well. Avoid to use soap. Generally use of soap makes loss of moisture. The result dryness can produce cracks.
Massage Therapy
Before 7th month onward massage Bio or Coconut oil around your breasts. As we discussed above after post pregnancy breast enlarge suddenly, in this case massage therapy helps to protect you from stretch marks.
During the period of breastfeeding everyday during you bath make its a habit to massage your breasts well. For massage purpose you can use Oil plus water. During massage rub your breasts clock-wise & anti-clock wise. Massage therapy helps to improve blood flow. Better blood flow help to produce more milks. After breast massage pull your Nipples 10 to 12 times. This exercise helps in better milk extraction.
Nursing or Maternity Bras
Post Pregnancy change your bra. As the size get enlarge choose large size nursing or maternity bras. Avoid to use tight bra. Tight bra creates problem in Blood circulation. Which can cause breast related diseases. Don’t wear bra at night. Keep your breast free. Practice to wear quality non-underwire bra.
Don’t press Hard
During intercourse tell your hubby to don’t press your breasts hard. Avoid lickage of milk. It was observed during sex lickage of milk produce unhealthy milks for baby.
Diet Plan
Diet is a major unit to control our body. Breastfeeding moms need to more careful about their diet plans. Medically milks comes from you depending upon your body strength. Better diets can create more milk. Including your regular diet add more iron & protein rich foods. Consult your family doctor & intake required vitamins & calcium. Incorporate fruits & green vegetables judiciously to increase your daily water intake. Keep your breasts warm it help for better milk production.
Pump Excess Milk
Post Pregnancy for 3 months frequently do breastfeeding. As the baby will grow it reduces breastfeeding counts. For first 3 months if you will not share milk to your baby it may cause pain for you. After breastfeeding still if you found you have excess milks use pump & extract excess milks. It was found in such case where breastfeeding not happen to moms milks get clot & creates problem.
Sore & Cracked Nipples
Sore & Cracked nipples is a very common problem to many breastfeeding moms. Generally this happens during baby feeding. To protect you from this learn from any experienced women how to position during breastfeeding.
I know you are worried about the beauty of your breast. It’s true to find something we need to lose something. You already a mom how can you dream more towards that shapes. Still take time slowly your breast will back to normal again.
Herbs for Breastfeeding Moms to Produce More Milk
Breastfeeding is an essential component of infant nutrition, providing both sustenance and bonding for mother and child. However, some mothers experience challenges with milk production. To support lactation, various herbs have been traditionally used to enhance milk supply. This article explores several of these herbs, their benefits, and recommended usage.
Importance of Herbs in Lactation
Herbs have been utilized across cultures for centuries to aid in various health issues, including lactation. Many of these herbs are classified as galactagogues, substances that promote milk production. While scientific evidence varies, many mothers report positive results from using herbal remedies.
## Fenugreek
Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) is one of the most popular herbs for increasing milk supply. It contains phytoestrogens that can help enhance lactation. Fenugreek seeds can be consumed in various forms—whole seeds, powder, or as a tea.
Usage
Most commonly, breastfeeding mothers take fenugreek capsules or consume 1-2 teaspoons of the seeds or powder daily. It is advised to monitor for any side effects, such as gastrointestinal discomfort or a maple syrup-like odor in urine, which is harmless but notable.
## Blessed Thistle
Blessed thistle (Cnicus benedictus) is another herb traditionally used to support lactation. It is believed to stimulate appetite and digestion, promoting overall health, which can indirectly aid in milk production.
Usage
Blessed thistle can be taken as a tea or in capsule form. A typical recommendation is 3-6 grams per day. It is often used in combination with fenugreek for enhanced effect.
## Milk Thistle
Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) is not only known for its liver-supporting properties but also for its potential benefits in lactation. It contains silymarin, which may help enhance milk production.
Usage
Milk thistle can be consumed as a tea or in capsule form. Dosages typically range from 140-600 mg of silymarin daily. As with any herb, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional before use.
## Alfalfa
Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) is a nutrient-dense herb that provides essential vitamins and minerals that can support overall health and lactation. It is rich in protein, calcium, and vitamins A, D, E, and K.
Usage
Alfalfa can be consumed as sprouts, in tablet form, or as a tea. Recommended dosages vary, but 1-2 tablespoons of alfalfa sprouts daily or a few capsules can be beneficial.
## Fennel
Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) is known for its flavoring properties, but it also has a long history in traditional medicine as a galactagogue. Fennel seeds are thought to mimic estrogen and may help increase milk production.
Usage
Fennel can be added to foods, brewed into tea, or taken in supplement form. Drinking fennel tea a few times a day is a common practice among breastfeeding mothers.
## Anise
Anise (Pimpinella anisum) is another herb with galactagogue properties. It is believed to support digestion and may help with issues like gas in both mothers and infants.
Usage
Anise can be consumed as tea or in seed form. A typical recommendation is to drink 1-2 cups of anise tea daily. As with other herbs, it’s important to observe any reactions in both mother and baby.
## Nettle
Nettle (Urtica dioica) is a nutrient-rich herb that can support lactation and overall health. It is high in iron, calcium, and vitamins A and C, which can help improve milk production.
Usage
Nettle can be consumed as a tea or in capsules. Drinking 1-3 cups of nettle tea daily is often suggested, especially when combined with other lactation-supporting herbs.
## Moringa
Moringa (Moringa oleifera) has become popular for its nutritional benefits and is believed to enhance milk production. It is rich in vitamins, minerals, and protein, making it an excellent supplement for breastfeeding mothers.
Usage
Moringa can be consumed as a powder added to smoothies, in capsule form, or as tea. A common recommendation is 1-2 teaspoons of moringa powder daily.
## Shatavari
Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) is an adaptogenic herb traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine. It is known for its ability to support female reproductive health and lactation.
Usage
Shatavari is commonly available in powder or capsule form. Dosages typically range from 500-1500 mg per day. It can also be mixed into warm milk for better absorption.
Safety Considerations
While many herbs are considered safe for breastfeeding mothers, it is crucial to approach their use cautiously. Not all herbs are suitable for everyone, and some may interact with medications or have contraindications. Consulting with a healthcare provider before starting any herbal regimen is advisable.
Conclusion
Herbs can be a valuable resource for breastfeeding mothers looking to enhance milk production. Fenugreek, blessed thistle, milk thistle, alfalfa, fennel, anise, nettle, moringa, and shatavari are among the most commonly used herbs that may support lactation. However, individual responses to these herbs can vary, and monitoring for any adverse effects is essential. By combining these herbs with a nutritious diet, proper hydration, and frequent breastfeeding or pumping, mothers can create an environment conducive to successful lactation. It is always recommended to seek guidance from a healthcare professional before incorporating new supplements into a breastfeeding routine.