It is important for new and expecting moms not to forget about themselves, their mental and physical wellbeing. Something that is easily lost, especially if you are expecting another baby and your time is already stretched thin. Breasts increase in size to accommodate for milk coming through, become tender and sore which means that they need a great dose of care. There are pregnancy breast creams, breast gels and breast balms that you can apply to provide hydration, improve elasticity and relieve fullness. There is a separate blog page ‘Breast creams for pregnancy’ giving an overview of those best breast care cosmetic products available.
Here we will discuss some simple breast care tips which can minimize discomfort and help moms feel their best during pregnancy and in the time after.
There are three recommendations that can be made:
1. Well-fitting maternity bra
It does go without saying that wearing a well-fitting, comfortable maternity bra that offers plenty of support is a must-have in the coming months. Choose one that is seamless and is made of soft, breathable, slightly stretchy fabric which offers snug support as your breasts size fluctuates. If you decide and begin nursing, a bra with full drop cups will allow you to breastfeed your baby easily and discreetly as well as provide your breasts with needed support.
Bra fitting
The best idea would be to go for a bra fitting session in person, try on a few styles and sizes and find the best and most comfortable fit. Check which shops in your area offer this service but there will be ample choice from Marks and Spencer, John Lewis or Bravissimo. Knowing your size will also allow you to confidently shop online. It might be more convenient, or you might feel more comfortable with a home bra fitting service. There are many small local providers offering this assistance so just have a browse.
Wearing a sleep bra
As your breasts become fuller and heavier, they might feel uncomfortable at night. Wearing a sleep bra is a really good idea to provide that extract support. Some women find using a cropped top instead a great alternative to a sleep bra.
2. Cabbage leaves compress
Cabbage leaves, rich in flavonoids and sulforaphane, have long been used as a compress on an affected area to relieve swelling and inflammation. It is a popular herbal remedy for engorgement for new and breastfeeding mothers. Placing clean, chilled cabbage leaves directly on the skin is a fairly easy and inexpensive home treatment. Keeping the leaves on for just 20 minutes should provide noticeable relief and decrease discomfort. It’s also incredibly soothing and nourishing for your skin.
Here is how to prepare a compress in a few easy steps:
1. Pull off several, fresh inner leaves, wash and dry them
2. Place in the fridge to achieve the cooling effect
3. Crash the leaves slightly to break up the veins
4. Place the leaves on the breast but not the nipple (to avoid bra stains place the leaves on cling film, and then on the breast, to create a protective barrier)
5. Keep for 15 to 20 min or less, dispose of once they get warm
Keep the remaining cabbage in the fridge for later use.
Our cabbage gel, Calming Cabbage Breast Gel, made with concentrated cabbage leaf extract, can provide the benefits of the cabbage compress in a more convenient form. It is easy to apply, quick to absorb and has a refreshing delicate peppermint scent.
3. Hot and cold packs
Just like cabbage leaves compress, another simple yet effective way to provide comfort to engorged sore breasts - a hot and cold compress. Applying a warm, wet compress to the breasts 10 minutes before a feed can aid milk flow. Between feeds, moms can switch to a cool compress to help relieve swelling and breast pain. Small bags of crushed ice or frozen vegetables wrapped in a towel make great cooling compresses. You should notice your breasts feel better if you apply the cool compress for 15 minutes between feeds.
A more convenient form are gel packs which can be applied either hot or cold, depending on the role they need to play. Cold breast gel packs are designed to help relieve engorgement. Hot breast gel packs aim to help relieve plugged milk ducts and encourage milk flow. The choice you will have is endless, there are sold in almost every pharmacy, however, Lansinoh TheraPearl® 3-in-1 Breast Therapy gel packs are one of the most regarded brands on offer.
Finding time for self-care can be challenging but with those three simple ideas you can make your breasts a priority.