Breast Care Tips During Breastfeeding It is known that a woman's breast undergoes noticeable changes during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as the hormones secreted by the mother's body cause the breast to grow in preparation for milk production. In order to provide a healthy environment for you and your child, Dalili Medical offers you a set of tips for breast care during breastfeeding.

Why do breast changes occur after childbirth?

 

The main reason behind this is hormonal changes. During pregnancy, the size and mass of the breasts increase, which leads to the inability of the ligaments to bear this extra load, causing the breasts to sag. At the same time, the skin is exposed to tension, which contributes to the loss of its elasticity. In addition, genetics and the shape and size of the mammary glands play a major role in these changes.

What are the types of nipples?

 

There are four types:

1. Inverted or sunken nipple.

2. Flat or flat nipple.

3. Protruding nipple, which is the normal type.

4. Large nipple.

The baby may refuse to breastfeed due to the use of a bottle (bottle) and not due to the type of nipple, whether flat or inverted, as he can breastfeed by placing the areola or part of it in his mouth.

**The importance of choosing the right bra for breastfeeding**

The breastfeeding period is a sensitive stage that requires special attention to the mother's health and comfort. The right bra plays an essential role at this stage, as its benefit is not limited to providing comfort only, but also contributes to preventing breast problems such as blockage and infections. The right choice ensures easy access to the breast during breastfeeding and supports overall breast health.

**Selection criteria**

When choosing the right bra for breastfeeding, several factors must be taken into account:

1. **Comfort and support**: It is necessary to look for a bra that provides adequate support without putting pressure on the breasts, and it must be comfortable to use throughout the day.

2. **The right size**: Due to the changes that occur to the body during pregnancy and breastfeeding, the size may change. Therefore, it is important to measure the chest regularly to get the accurate size that ensures optimal comfort and support.

3. **Ease of use**: It is preferable to choose a bra that facilitates access to the breast during breastfeeding, such as those with openable cups.

4. **Materials and ventilation**: Natural fabrics such as cotton provide good ventilation and reduce the possibility of allergies, which is especially important during the breastfeeding period.

Types of breastfeeding bras

There are a variety of bras available on the market, including:

- Bras with openable cups: facilitate the breastfeeding process and provide easy access.

- Wire-free bras: provide greater comfort and reduce pressure on the breasts.

- Sports bras designed for breastfeeding: combine comfort and support, making them ideal for active mothers.

Tips for maintaining your bra

Proper care of your bra helps extend its life and maintain its quality:

- Wash it by hand or in the washing machine gently: It is preferable to use a gentle washing cycle or wash it by hand.

- Use mild laundry detergents: It is advisable to avoid harsh detergents that may harm the fabrics.

- Air dry: It is preferable not to use an electric dryer as it may damage the fabrics and straps.

How can you deal with breast engorgement after childbirth?

 

Breast engorgement after childbirth means that the breasts are filled with large amounts of milk, which leads to a feeling of pain and makes the breastfeeding process difficult and painful.

Breast engorgement usually goes away within two days of starting breastfeeding, especially if you follow the recommended guidelines to relieve engorgement and practice breastfeeding correctly.

The most important tips and guidelines to relieve breast engorgement

1. **Continue breastfeeding regularly**: Breastfeeding may be difficult when the breast is engorged, but it is essential to continue breastfeeding your baby regularly. It is preferable to breastfeed at least 8 times a day, as this helps reduce breast swelling and maintain milk flow.

2. ** Bath and warm compresses before breastfeeding**: Take a warm bath or apply warm compresses to the breasts before breastfeeding.

3. ** Use cold compresses after breastfeeding**: to relieve pain and engorgement.

4. **Gentle Squeeze and Express**: Try gently squeezing your breasts with your hands to release a small amount of milk to relieve the pressure.

5. **Express milk if necessary**: If you are unable to breastfeed your baby directly, use a breast pump to express milk.

**Breast Toning Exercises**

**Exercise 1: Dumbbells**

Lie on a bench with your face up, arms straight and holding a dumbbell in each hand. Lower the dumbbells until they are near the sides of your chest, then press them back to the starting position. Repeat this exercise 10 times daily.

**Exercise 2: Push-ups**

Start in an all-fours position, with your palms slightly wider than shoulder-width apart and your feet close together. Your body should form a straight line from head to toe. Lower your body down until your chest almost touches the floor, keeping your upper arms at a 45-degree angle to your body.

**Breast changes after childbirth**

1- **Increased breast secretions**

As the end of pregnancy approaches, the breast begins to secrete a fluid known as "colostrum", in preparation for producing the milk needed for breastfeeding. The amount of this fluid may increase in the first days after childbirth, then gradually begin to decrease after several weeks. The mother can protect her clothes from getting wet from colostrum by using breast pads.

2- **Breast engorgement**

After childbirth, the mother produces large quantities of milk, which leads to breast engorgement and swelling. With each feeding, these symptoms improve relatively, especially when warm compresses are used on the painful area regularly. Over time, the breast begins to produce milk according to the baby's needs, which helps toSwelling and congestion disappear completely.

3- **Breast pain**

After a period of breastfeeding, the mother may feel a tingling sensation in the breast as the feeding time approaches, due to the flow of milk in the milk ducts.

4- Nipple pain

The mother may suffer from breast pain in the first days of breastfeeding, due to the baby's inability to latch properly, which leads to inflammation and cracking of the nipple.

**Breast care during breastfeeding using a feeding bottle**

 

Even if the woman does not intend to breastfeed her baby, the breast will continue to produce milk and secrete the necessary amount to nourish the baby, due to hormones stimulating the breast tissue to secrete milk about two days after birth.

During this period, the woman should wear a comfortable, high-quality bra, and take care of the cleanliness and dryness of the breast. It is preferable to clean the nipples using a gentle wash or baby oil, while avoiding using soap that may cause them to be sensitive and dry.

If a woman wants to reduce milk production, especially if her breasts start to leak milk or she feels heaviness in her chest, she can tie a piece of cloth around her chest and tighten it tightly, as this helps reduce milk production.

A woman should avoid touching her nipples, as this may stimulate milk production more. If she feels that her breasts are full of milk, she can use an ice pack to relieve the feeling of fullness.

A woman should care for her breasts in this way until she feels that they have become softer and devoid of milk. If she feels warm and painful lumps in her breasts or feels tired, she should contact her doctor for the necessary advice.

**Breast care during breastfeeding**

 

A few days after giving birth, the body begins to secrete a small amount of milk known as colostrum. After 2-5 days, the body begins to produce mature milk. The body may need about 10 days to secrete mature milk, and when this happens, the woman feels that her breasts have become full and soft.

It is important to note that the best way to stimulate milk production is the process of sucking the nipples by the baby, which activates the milk glands to produce more milk. While breastfeeding, the woman feels less full in the breast, and she may feel a slight tingling sensation during breastfeeding, especially when milk begins to flow from the breast (let down reflex).

After 7 days or more, the feeling of breast fullness begins to fade, and the nipples return to their normal shape and size as they were before pregnancy or childbirth. The woman's transition from feeling full in the breast before and after breastfeeding to the disappearance of this feeling indicates the success of the breastfeeding process and its proper progress.

1- Maintain good hygiene:

Make sure to wash your hands well before touching your breasts, and it is preferable to clean the nipples daily with warm water. Avoid using soap because it may dry out your skin and remove the natural oils that play a role in keeping the nipples and areola clean and moist.

2- Choosing a supportive bra:

Choose a bra designed for breastfeeding, and make sure it is the right size for you, and avoid choosing a smaller size. It is preferable to wear bras made of cotton, as it allows your skin to breathe well.

3- Change nursing pads regularly:

If you use pads to prevent milk leakage from the breast, make sure to change them when they become wet, and always keep them clean to avoid nipple inflammation.

4- Moisturize the nipples:

After you finish breastfeeding your baby, rub a little breast milk on the nipples and areola, and leave them to dry. This helps prevent dryness of the breasts and keeps them moisturized.

5- Properly remove the baby from the breast:

When you notice that your baby has finished breastfeeding, avoid pulling him away from the breast. The correct way is to put your finger in the corner of his mouth, which helps break the suction process between his mouth and the breast.

**Possible complications of the breast after childbirth**

 

The mother should consult a doctor if the changes that occur in the breast after childbirth are severe and difficult to bear, as they may develop into the following complications:

1- **Mastitis**

The milk ducts in the breast may be blocked during the first three weeks after childbirth, which increases the risk of infection known as "mastitis". Symptoms that may indicate this include:

- Breast swelling.

- The appearance of red lines on the skin of the breast.

- High breast temperature.

- Feeling pain in the breast.

- Having a fever.

- The appearance of pus or blood in the breast milk.

If the mother does not receive antibiotics quickly, mastitis may develop into a breast abscess.

2- Fungal infection

Breastfeeding can lead to cracks in the nipples, which may allow the yeast infection to be transmitted to the mother's body, causing a range of annoying symptoms, including:

- Itching in the nipple.

- Pain in the nipple.

- White discharge from the nipple.

- Breast pain after breastfeeding.

If the mother is diagnosed with this infection, it is necessary to stop breastfeeding to avoid transmitting the infection to the child.

3- Breast cancer

During the first year after giving birth, the mother may be at risk of developing breast cancer. Therefore, it is important to examine her breasts regularly, and seek medical care if she notices any painful lumps, an increase in size, abnormal secretions, or wrinkles in the skin.

**Postpartum Breast Care Instructions**

 

Breast care after giving birth requires following a set of important instructions, including:

After giving birth, the breast will begin to fill with milk, and it is necessary to get rid of some of this milk, either through breastfeeding or using special devices, to avoid breast swelling and the resulting severe pain.

Warm compresses can be placed on the breast after breastfeeding or a warm shower can be used, as this helps prevent milk from accumulating on the breast and nipple, which reducesFrom the risk of inflammation.

As a preventive measure to avoid milk leakage and the embarrassment it may cause, the mother should adhere to a regular breastfeeding schedule. It is preferable to use sanitary pads free of plastic or padded support, and change them after each feeding to avoid nipple inflammation.

To protect the nipple from cracking, the mother should teach the child how to breastfeed properly, by placing the breast in his mouth in a way that ensures the nipple is fully inserted during breastfeeding.

To prevent dry nipples, it is recommended to expose them to continuous ventilation and dry them immediately after cleaning.

It is important to wear a bra that fits the breast, preferably the type designated for breastfeeding. Tight bras should be avoided to avoid any uncomfortable pressure.

**Treatment of cracked or sore nipples**

 

Many mothers face the problem of sore or cracked nipples, and often ignore them without seeking treatment, which leads to a worsening of the condition. Therefore, it is important to treat this problem quickly. Here are some effective methods:

- Squeeze some breast milk from the nipple and wipe the affected area with it, then leave it to dry. The healing properties of breast milk can help heal nipples just as effectively as specialized creams or lotions.

- Use shea butter to moisturize the nipples, making sure to wash them well before breastfeeding your baby.

- You can apply olive oil to the nipples to moisturize them and treat cracks quickly.

- Mix two tablespoons of honey with the same amount of aloe vera gel, then add a tablespoon of olive oil, cocoa butter, and glycerin. Keep the mixture in a clean container in the refrigerator, and apply it to your nipples morning and evening.

- Use creams to treat cracked nipples

There are many creams available to treat cracked nipples on the market, the most prominent of which are:

- Sanosan Napple Salve For Women

This product is very popular among women, as it contains pure natural lanolin that provides additional protection and acts as an effective pain reliever. It is suitable for sensitive nipples as it is free from colours, fragrances and preservatives.

- Lansinoh Lanolin Cream

This cream contains 100% pure refined lanolin. It is used to relieve the pain and discomfort caused by dry, sore and cracked nipples. It is also safe to use, there is no need to wash the lanolin off your breasts before breastfeeding, as it is hypoallergenic and safe for your baby.

- Motherlove Cracked and Sore Nipple Cream

This cream is free from lanolin and contains all-natural, organic ingredients that aim to soothe and heal sore nipples. It contains virgin olive oil, beeswax, shea butter, marshmallow root and calendula flower. It is also non-toxic and safe to use around your baby, which means there is no need to wash it off before breastfeeding.