Post-breastfeeding care

Let's do post-breastfeeding careGraduation here refers to the time when a child finally bids goodbye with breast milk. The timing is different for each person, but it seems that many moms start from around one and a half years old when they go from baby food to infant food. Since the frequency of milking is reduced during graduation, some moms may suffer from problems such as chest tightness, pain, and mastitis. This time, we will introduce a method of "breast care" that considers breast health after breastfeeding.Why should I do breast care?To reduce pain and tensionJust because you graduated from breastfeeding naturally does not mean that you suddenly lose milk. Until now, you made breast milk every day, and when your kid suddenly stopped drinking, the amount they couldn't drink accumulated in the mammary gland, and when you leave it alone, it hardened, and your chest will become tense and painful. Therefore, it is better to milk to the extent that the breast tension is relieved. However, when breast milk accumulates, it hurts so much that you will want to milk until you are almost out of milk, but the point is not to milk too much in the early stages of breastfeeding care. Excessive milk production creates a vicious cycle in which the amount of milk increases further because it stimulates the production of new milk. When milking, make sure it is a little less taut and you don't feel any pain.To leave no mastitis or lumpsIf left untreated after weaning, the milk that collects in the mammary glands may become clogged, causing mastitis. Mastitis can cause intense pain in the clogged area and a high fever of nearly 40 degrees. If this happens, you will not be able to take care of your baby because it will not be cured unless you have a breast milk massage at the hospital. Mom's body is also painful, so take proper care before you get mastitis.To get breast milk well in the next childbirthIf care is not taken after weaning, the milk that has not been drained may become lumpy and remain intact. If the lump remains, it may become clogged in the mammary glands during the next delivery, making it difficult to produce milk. The older the lump, the harder it is to eliminate, and even if new milk is made only in that part, the flow will be impaired. The new breast milk that you have made is also prone to clogging, and you are more likely to have mastitis when breastfeeding your next baby.Breastfeeding care routine Breastfeeding care start ~ 3 daysAt first, I'm still excited. Milk moderately to produce breast milk. However, try not to put it out and stop it when it becomes easier to some extent. Wrap the ice pack in a towel and apply it to the area to be stretched to relieve the tension.~ 4th day to 1 weekBreast milk will gradually decrease (although there are individual differences). At this time, you can give out without leaving any milk. Also, massage the hardened area. Breastfeeding should be gradually spaced, first at 1-week intervals and then at 2-week intervals.~ About a monthMost people are almost out of breast milk. Breast massage should be continued until one month after weaning, as residual milk can cause mastitis and lumps.Breastfeeding methodsI will explain each method of milking and massage.Milking methodThere are two ways to milk, one is to use a milking machine and the other is to squeeze by hand.When using a breast pumpFollow the instructions on the breast pump. Milking machines are available manually and automatically, so choose the one that suits you best.When squeezing by handWash your hands and wipe the entire breast with a disinfectant sheet to keep it clean. Then, place a container for breast milk (such as a baby bottle) in a position where the squeezed milk can be placed. Bend over to the container. Put your hands under the breast. Hold the areola between your index finger and thumb and press it.Repeatedly compress and breastfeedMassage methodIf your breasts are tight and painful, wrap the entire breast with both hands and press. It is NG if it is too strong or too weak, so the standard is to make your chest feel comfortable. When there is partial tension or pain. You may squeeze only a part. If it's still difficult, try putting a cooling sheet on your breasts or putting a cold towel on them to keep your breasts cool.Tips for breast-careIt seems that many moms have changed the shape of their breasts after graduation from before giving birth. After weaning, remeasure your bra to maintain a clean breast shape. Also, if you have pain or lumps after weaning, you may have hidden illnesses such as mastitis or breast cancer. If you have any concerns or discomfort, see a doctor at the hospital.