It is a known fact that breastfeeding is good for babies. It has some amazing benefits that no other formula can provide. Breastfeeding will not just give your baby all the natural nutrients he or she needs, but it will also make your baby feel even more close to you. That special bond is something that cannot be bought. However; breastfeeding your baby is easier said than done. There are a lot of women who find it incredibly difficult; but it does not mean that it is impossible for them to get through it. Experts say that many women can even feel sick while nursing. Postpartum sickness is not uncommon since the mind and body are still trying to recover from giving birth. So if you are suffering from nausea while breastfeeding; then you do not need to worry about it since you are not alone. There are a lot of breastfeeding mothers out there who are going through this and here are what you need to know about it.
The reason behind nausea while breastfeeding
According to the International Board Certified Lactation Consultant; Kelly Bonyata. There is actually a small number of women who are suffering from nausea while breastfeeding during the first few weeks after giving birth. It turns out that this is not just due to a psychological effect, it is because of the body’s reaction to the release of oxytocin during the milk let-down. This nauseous feeling is also said to be the same kind of feeling when some women suffer from morning sickness in the early stages of pregnancy. Other experts also believe that this can go away just after two months of giving birth. But, that is usually not the case for everyone since there might be other reasons behind it.
Another reason that might be causing this is the mom’s food and water intake. Breastfeeding moms need as many nutritious foods as they can get to be able to fulfill their baby’s nutritional needs through breastfeeding. Also, in maintaining their own health. This is why it is not advisable for women to try to lose that much weight right after giving birth if they are planning to breastfeed. Their bodies are still recovering and they need to be healthy as well. If the body does not have enough nutrients to produce breast milk as well as fulfill the mother’s own needs, it can cause nausea. Breastfeeding women that are not consuming enough water may experience something like this. This is because of the dehydrating feeling they might feel; so it is ideal to consume a good amount of water every single day. If you do not try to eat healthily or consume enough water; the health of your own baby; as well as your body; might be at risk.
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Hormonal shifts:
Nausea while breastfeeding can also be caused by hormonal shifts since your body is still trying to recover. This hormonal shift can also be the reaction of your body since your baby is drinking more and more milk as they grow. Some hormone specialists also think that losing a lot of blood during the delivery can also be a contributing factor. A breastfeeding woman who is not well enough is prone to different kinds of illnesses during the postpartum period. However; nausea caused by hormonal shifts may also be related to the milk ejection reflex or also known as MER. It is known to be a psychological response to the milk release, but this feeling usually goes away once you are used to breastfeeding your baby. And if you and your baby are doing well by being having a feeding schedule.
How to prevent it?
If you are suffering from nausea while breastfeeding; you do not need to stress about it too much because there are now ways to prevent it from happening. According to another lactation consultant, Renee Beebe; nausea can go away if you practice some breathing exercises before and after feeding. This will help your mind and body to stay comfortable, but if it does not work; it is ideal to consult a specialist since everyone’s case is different. This is because some women may actually have mastitis. Breastfeeding mothers may not notice the enlargement of their breasts since it usually simply means having more milk. One of the most common symptoms of this infection is nausea. Mastitis is an infection that is caused by the baby’s saliva coming in the cracked nipples. This can be extremely painful for the mother so you must seek medical treatment as soon as you can. Taking care of yourself will not only benefit your own well-being but your infant as well.
Lactating consultants recommend trying out a couple of nursing positions. This will help you figure out which position will you and your baby be comfortable the most during the feeding time. Most women feel lightheaded when they feed their baby while laying down; so sitting up with a nursing pillow will most likely help. If that all fails, then try some of the natural ways to prevent your nausea.
Natural remedies to try
- According to some experts, eating or drinking something that contains ginger will help you get rid of that nauseous feeling. This is said to be because of how ginger can soothe the digestive system. If you are not a fan of ginger; you do not need to eat it directly; there are some ginger candies in the market today which may help you out.
- It is also believed that consuming a good amount of protein and carbs before you breastfeed your baby will make sure that you will not feel nauseous at all. This is because the blood sugar levels will be constant if the body is getting a good amount of it from the food source.
- It is also ideal for the mother to have enough sleep. This may be a bit difficult most especially if your baby is still not used to sleeping through the night. If your baby is taking a nap; take advantage of it by taking a nap as well. You need as much as rest as you can get.
Keep in mind that if all of these natural remedies do not work on you; it is best to consult your doctor right away. Risking your own health will risk your baby’s well-being too; so making sure that you are perfectly fine is essential. Tell your healthcare provider all the necessary details about your nausea while breastfeeding so they can provide you with the right treatment.
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