Caring for your breasts during and after pregnancy

In most instances, pregnancy tends to change the appearance and feel of your breasts in a number of ways, a majority of which can even cause discomfort. Some of these changes include growth and tenderness. darkening of nipples, colostrum leakage. darkening of veins and enlargement of nipples. Here are a few tips and routines that will help you take care of your breasts, prevent any discomfort caused. and enable you to enjoy pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Right Bra Size/Material

Enlargement of the breasts is one of the vivid changes that is experienced by most women. Consider wearing the right-sized bra to avoid discomfort. A comfortable maternity bra, preferably made of cotton, will help as the breasts enlarge during pregnancy and after pregnancy.

Maintain Hygiene

Nipples tend to leak colostrum, your first breastmilk. When this happens, it is advisable to change your bra to avoid the nipples being too wet which may lead to cracks, irritation or infections. Further, remember to wash your nipples regularly to prevent the liquid from forming a crust around them.

Massage your Breasts

Regular massage of your breasts can help with blocked ducts, stretch marks, and cracked nipples. Remember to always rubs moisturiser around the nipples. Massaging your nipples is important because it helps to boost the supply of milk post-delivery. improve breastfeeding, soften the breasts, smoothen the mammary glands, and increase milk flow.

Hydrate your skin

Stretch marks around the belly and chest are inevitable in a woman, but this can be minimised by hydrating the body as much as possible in the morning and evening You can stay hydrated by applying cream or oil that is nourishing to your skin.

Be Active

Gentle stretching activities could tone the upper body. Arm stretches could help provide strength to the breast muscles and may reduce breast pain. Exercising when nursing is important because it boosts your mood, manages weight, and builds your energy stores when you are up breastfeeding into the wee hours of the night.

Adopt the right breastfeeding behaviours

While breastfeeding, ensure the baby takes the breast with the mouth covering the entire areola. This will prevent the appearance of painful cracks or engorgement. Do not hesitate to be accompanied or advised by a professional if you find it difficult. Remember to wipe your breast with a soft cotton pad and apply moisturising cream after each feeding. This will nourish your breasts and prevent them from drying out.

Precautionary measures to look out for

Wash your breasts with clean, warm water every day.

Check your breasts regularly for any changes, and if you happen to see any changes, let your doctor know about it.

Do not keep your breasts damp as they may cause cracks in the nipples.

Avoid scrubbing your breasts with a rough cloth or towel. Just pat them dry after a shower.

Maintain a healthy body weight by having a balanced diet

Avoid smoking and limit alcohol intake.

Do not use soap or alcohol-based cleaning agents. They might cause drying and soreness

Check with your doctor or fitness specialist before taking up any exercise routine. Allotting a little time every day to take care of your breasts and nipples can go a long way during pregnancy and keep your post-pregnancy body in a good shape for years to come.

Image Courtesy