Breast Care Tips

Breast feeding is strongly recommended as one of the best things you can do for your newborn child. In fact the benefits are so amazing, it’s worth reiterating for anyone that doesn’t full appreciate them. So if you don’t already know the benefits check out the summary list below:

Benefits To Baby

• Breast milk contains important antibodies which boost your babies immune system
• It contains the perfect blend of nutrients and energy for your newborns early months
• Your child won’t have the digestive problems caused by formula milk
• Your child will have less weight problems later in life
• Babies who aren’t breast fed suffer from higher rates of illness & disease
• Breast fed babies demonstrate higher IQ & intelligence levels later in life

Benefits To The Mother

• You’ll lose weight quicker after your pregnancy
• You’ll stop any post birth bleeding much quicker and your uterus will return to normal size faster
• It actually reduces the chances of developing breast and ovarian cancer
• It helps you develop a closer bond with your child
• It works out to be cheaper, you don’t have to sterlise bottles or do any of the other chores
• You’ll actually feel better, both emotionally and physically.

The above is a quick summary of only some of the benefits of breast feeding, so if you didn’t realise the above positives, then getting ready to breast feed has to be your next challenge. No one will claim it’s easy but if it’s your first time then spending some time researching and planning how to take care of your breasts will be an extremely huge step in the right direction. This article will give you a head start on the problems and the methods you can use to have a positive breast feeding experience.

The Problems

Getting your baby to latch on for the first time isn’t always easy. In fact most new mothers will experience soreness, swelling, cracking and even light bleeding around their nipples. You’re breasts are going to get much bigger due to the milk, and in many cases this can lead to a lumpy feeling that can feel quite uncomfortable. As we said before it’s not always a smooth ride but if you follow some of the tips we’ve outlined below you’ll be able to alleviate and cure most of common problems.

Breast Care Tips

• When breast feeding try different positions and angles so that you use up all the milk in the various parts of your breasts. This should help with lumpy painful breasts.
• If you develop cracks or soreness around your nipples use sesame seed oil or vaseline to reduce the dryness.
• Select a loose fitted cotton bra which gives you the extra support where you need it without the added pressure.
• Try to relax as much as possible when breast feeding. This will make your life a whole lot easier. Any emotional stress or problems in your life may strongly disturb your milk secretion.
• Eat a healthy and balanced diet with plenty of calcium, iron and vitamins. The more leafy vegetables and fruits you get in the better. Ultimately if you want your breasts to continue with their supply of fresh nutrient rich milk you’re going to have to eat properly.
• Drink plenty of water and fluids to ensure you’re hydrated and your breasts keep making that milk
• Don’t use soap on your breasts, your body secretes natural oils to keep them soft and lubricated, just use warm water and a moist cotton cloth.
• If you don’t want to stop breast feeding but are sore, use ice 5 minutes before you feed to numb any soreness and pain.
• Leave your breasts out to breathe sometimes, we all need some air
• If you’re really having more severe problems with cracks and soreness, it’s best to consult your Doctor or midwife sooner rather than later. The quicker you figure out how to remove the pain the quicker you’ll be back to feeding.

Final Words

In parting, breast feeding is the best gift you can give to your newborn child. You’ll feel better, your baby will feel better and it’s something that can never be substituted with anything else. Remember you’ll only get one chance to breast feed your baby so don’t miss out.