Breast Care During Lactation
Following guidelines may help in breast care during lactation:
Clean nipples and areola with water, and dry, as part of personal hygiene. Do not use soap or rub heavily with towel; it takes away the natural lubricant.
Sometimes there is pain in the whole breast or just in the nipples. A well fitting brassiere worn all 24 hours may provide relief. Application of warmth also relieves these symptoms.
During pregnancy and lactation when the breasts become heavier, a well fitting brassiere must be worn, to support ligaments. It also avoids stretching of the skin of the breasts and thus prevents sagging. A brassiere with a front fastener will be most suitable, during lactation period.
It is essential to relax and be cheerful during pregnancy and lactation. Any stress, emotional or otherwise may disturb milk secretion.
A ‘balanced diet’ which provides not only more calories and proteins but also iron, calcium and vitamins is a must. A little more than the normal diet including green vegetables and fruits with suf11cient quantities of water and other liquids will ensure adequate milk supply.
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Engorged Breasts during Lactation
When milk starts flowing freely into the breasts on the second or third day after birth the breasts may become swollen and somewhat tender and painful to the touch. This usually passes off after a few days. However, sometimes the breasts become swollen, tense and hurt a lot when the baby feeds. This is called’ engorgement’ of the breast. You can prevent this from getting worse by expressing a little milk before putting your baby to the breast. This makes the areola (the dark brown area around the nipples) less tense and your baby can take his feeds better. Feed your baby at shorter intervals, for shorter periods of time. Empty your breasts with your hands after each feed. If required, a breast pump may have to be used. The use of well-fitting, tight, breast support would reduce your discomfort. If the problem persists, seek your doctor’s advice.
Lumpy, Tender Breasts during Lactation
Blocked milk ducts are usually responsible for lumpy, tender breasts. To help, express some milk from the affected breast. If not too uncomfortable, let your baby feed, on the sore breast. Stroke the lumpy area gently with your fingertips towards your nipple while the baby takes the feed from the affected breast. Consult your doctor too.