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Self-Care for Breastfeeding Mothers: Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Balance
Breastfeeding is one of the most rewarding and challenging experiences for any mother. The demands of breastfeeding can take a toll on both your mind and body, but there are simple steps you can take to ensure that you are taking care of yourself during this time. Psych Ed Workshops shares some tips on maintaining self-care for breastfeeding mothers.
Find Help Deep Cleaning Your Home
Having a clean home is a key factor in maintaining good mental health. It can be hard to keep up with all of the cleaning tasks and caring for your baby, so don’t be afraid to reach out for help. Having someone else take care of the deep cleaning and organizing can give you more time and energy to focus on yourself and your family.
Eat Healthy
Medela notes that It is essential to eat right when nursing a baby as it helps provide the nutrients needed to keep up with the demands of breastfeeding. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, lean protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Avoid processed foods as much as possible and make sure that you are getting enough calories throughout the day.
Get Started with Meditation
Take time out each day to relax and meditate. Mindworks points out that meditation helps reduce stress levels which can be beneficial during this already stressful time in your life. Find an app or online tutorial that will teach you how to meditate if you’re new to it or don’t know where to start. You can set aside a quiet space in your home where you can meditate without distractions.
Make Sure You Are Comfortable When Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding can be uncomfortable if done in an awkward position. To avoid potential discomforts, make sure to find a comfortable chair or position that allows for easy and gentle nursing. Doing this will also ensure a more peaceful and enjoyable experience for both mother and baby.
Establish a Solid Support System
Surrounding yourself with a supportive network can make a world of difference when dealing with the unique struggles associated with breastfeeding and pregnancy. Family members, friends, and qualified healthcare professionals can be invaluable allies in providing comfort and understanding during tough times.
Postpartum depression is a real thing, but there is help. Most insurances cover counseling services, so check into your policy to see if you’re covered. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help as it can make all the difference.
Speak with a Lactation Specialist
Breastfeeding can be a difficult journey, but having the expertise of a lactation specialist can make it easier. They can provide tips and advice to ensure that both mother and baby receive the necessary nutrition from each breastfeeding session. Consulting with a professional can help provide peace of mind to any new mother navigating this special time.
Prioritize Time for Your Other Kids
Bringing a new sibling into the world is a special time for any family. However, it’s important for parents to not forget about the other children at home. Showing love and appreciation is key. Try tucking them in each night to remind them they are still precious to you despite the extra focus on the new arrival. Even small acts of kindness can make all the difference.
Keep Yourself Hydrated
While it’s recommended to avoid too much caffeine while breastfeeding to avoid getting dehydrated, that doesn’t mean you need to give up your morning coffee. Just make sure that you drink plenty of water. Aim for eight glasses per day minimum as dehydration is linked with fatigue and other common issues associated with pregnancy and/or breastfeeding.
Plus, drinking a lot of water is beneficial for overall health and wellness too.
From deep cleaning your home before giving birth to finding ways to relax throughout each day — these tips should help eliminate some stressors associated with breastfeeding. By following these tips, mothers everywhere can maintain the balance between family life and personal wellness simultaneously during those early stages associated with parenthood.