#37
Breast Care during Pregnancy
Pregnancy also changes the breastsTake care of them so that you can breastfeed your baby smoothly after the birth
Pregnancy causes changes not only in the abdomen but also in the breasts, because the breasts are beginning to prepare to feed the baby.
In the early stages of pregnancy, the nipples and areola may change and you might experience some discomfort or tingling when your nipples rub against your underwear. This is because the breasts are beginning to grow. The nipples and areola become darker in color due to an increase in melanin pigmentation caused by changes in hormonal balance.
Also, the mammary glands begin to develop, and a small amount of milky white discharge may be produced from the nipples.
Stretch marks often appear on the abdomen in the second trimester of pregnancy, but they can also appear on the breasts. Dry skin can contribute to stretch marks, so it's a good idea to use moisturizing cream on both your breasts and abdomen.
Breast milk is an important source of nutrition for babies. To prepare for smooth breastfeeding after birth, caring for your nipples and areolas during pregnancy is important.
After childbirth, the breasts typically become engorged, but breast milk production varies significantly among individuals. This variation can depend on factors like nipple shape and the openings of the milk ducts.
If the nipple is inverted or flat, the baby might struggle to latch at first.
In addition, clogged milk ducts can lead to low milk supply.
Starting around 20 weeksTips for breast care during pregnancy
Massage your nipples starting around the 20th week of pregnancy, during the stable period, to prepare for easier breastfeeding.
However, it's important to remember that nipple massage stimulates the secretion of oxytocin, the milk-producing hormone. Oxytocin also stimulates uterine contractions, so massaging the breasts could lead to abdominal tightening. Therefore, it's best to consult a doctor or midwife before beginning this practice.
Those with a suspected or diagnosed risk of preterm labor, it is advised to begin nipple care after 36 weeks, when the baby is considered full term.
Ensure that your hands and breasts are clean before massaging your nipples and areolas.
《 Breast Care Instructions 》
Breast preparation can start around 20 weeks of pregnancy, while paying attention to the following.
Discontinue nipple massage if you experience any tenderness, as stimulation might cause uterine contractions. If you are taking medication to prevent preterm labor, wait until after 36 weeks to begin.
Breast massage is most effective when done while relaxing, such as after taking a bath when the skin is softer. Supporting your breast with one hand, gently pinch your nipple from the areola with your thumb, index, and middle fingers, and apply gentle pressure to the nipple.
Also, while applying pressure, gently pull the nipple outward, both vertically and horizontally.
Do this once a day on days when you feel well, and more actively after 36 weeks. It is important to continue the massage daily for about 15 minutes at a time.
《 Oil Compress 》
Do this for about 10 minutes before taking a bath. Apply baby oil or cold cream to a cotton ball and place it on the nipple. Cover with a piece of plastic wrap of appropriate size and wait for 10 minutes.
After 10 minutes, lightly wipe the nipple with the cotton pad to clean it.
Then take a bath, lather with soap, and rinse gently and thoroughly.
This type of oil compress should be done once a week after 36 weeks of pregnancy.
Starting around Mid-PregnancyGuide to Pregnancy Bras
During pregnancy, it's recommended to choose bras that support mammary gland development, unlike pre-pregnancy bras focused on appearance.
As bust size increases significantly, maternity bras are a safer and more suitable option than regular bras, often accommodating a one to two cup increase.
The ideal time to switch is around mid-pregnancy.
You should use a bra that is not too constricting, so that the changes in your body shape can be seen from the outside.
Maternity bras are designed with wide adjustability and materials that avoid constriction, making them suitable for both pregnancy and postpartum nursing. Understanding your breast type through self-examination is beneficial not only for breastfeeding but also for breast cancer self-care.
Never use tight or wired bras. They can damage the mammary glands and cause scarring by compressing the nipples.
A newborn baby cannot suck well if the nipple is not easy to suck. During pregnancy, focus on ensuring the nipple is easily suckable for the baby.
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Midwife Yoko Nambu
After graduating from Tokyo Medical and Dental University School of Nursing and obtaining a national nursing license, and graduating from the Japanese Red Cross School of Midwifery and obtaining a national midwifery license, she worked as a midwife in the obstetrics and gynecology ward of Tokyo Medical and Dental University Hospital, attending over 300 births and picking up babies. After that, she established "Toraube Inc.", a consultation office mainly for women's body. As a woman's ally, she provides consultation for problems at all ages. She believes that women should understand their own body as their own. She believes that this will lead to the solution of all problems and deals with them on a daily basis.
Her hobbies include traveling with her husband, listening to movies and music, and playing healthy mahjong.
What I want you to know from my experience
supporting many mothers as a midwife.
Blog where midwives attend to the anxieties many moms and dads have about raising their children
