Breastfeeding gives every child the best possible start in life. It provides health, nutritional, and emotional benefits for both children and mothers. And it is an integral part of a sustainable food system. But while breastfeeding is a natural process, it is not always easy. Mothers need support—both to begin breastfeeding and to maintain it. (1)
To remember
- Breastfeeding has health and development benefits for both the baby and the mother.
- Breast milk contains more than 200 components. Its composition adapts to the baby's needs.
O'Flor informs you
From the beginning of pregnancy, the body prepares for breastfeeding. Breasts increase in size, the areola becomes darker, and the nipples become harder.
From the second trimester onwards, colostrum production begins. It is a yellow-orange milk, very rich in proteins and antibodies, which makes it a food of choice perfectly adapted to the needs of the child for the first 48 to 72 hours following birth.
The milk comes in around the 3rd day, when the colostrum evolves into mature milk with a significant increase in the volume of milk produced.
Although milk synthesis, secretion, and ejection are under hormonal control, other local regulatory factors may intervene. Milk synthesis is primarily related to prolactin secretion. However, sucking or stimulation of the areola also intervenes in milk synthesis because they trigger prolactin peaks which are added to the basal serum level.
The baby's sucking also plays a role in milk extraction during breastfeeding. To be able to breastfeed effectively, the baby must be positioned correctly to have a good latch, which also helps limit the risk of friction and nipple damage.
Breastfeeding isn't always easy, and if you're having trouble, you're not alone.
An American study of more than 500 mothers showed that 92% of them reported having breastfeeding difficulties from the third day 1 .
What solutions are there in hydrotherapy?
Bi-distilled hydrosols are a natural, sustainable and effective alternative for all breastfeeding mothers.
These subtle waters are non-toxic. They are the gentlest version of aromatherapy and can be used where essential oils are prohibited.
Find out how to use them to get your breastfeeding off to a good start.
Stimulate lactation
Fennel , rich in anethole, is known for its stimulating effect on lactation. In addition, it will have a beneficial effect on baby colic.
How to use it?
- either a capful in a glass of water or hot herbal tea 2 to 3 times a day. Adapt according to the result obtained.
- either as a sublingual spray: 2 sprays under the tongue morning and evening throughout breastfeeding
- or add 2 to 3 caps to a bottle of water
With hydrosols, it's easier to hydrate
Additionally, adding the hydrosol(s) to your water bottle and/or flask will help you drink enough. In fact, the recommended daily intake for a breastfeeding woman is 2.3L.
Good hydration also limits fatigue and promotes concentration.
Other hydrosols with galactogenic properties are tarragon and star anise .
Nipple cracks
Prevention is mainly based on a good position for breastfeeding and a good latch on the breast. At the end of the feed, it is also recommended to spread a little milk on the nipple and areola because it has healing and antiseptic properties.
Xavier explains to us....
“Cracked nipples usually appear at the beginning of breastfeeding. They are usually caused by the baby not latching on properly. Your midwife is the right person to help you correct this.”
excerpt from the book: “ Hydrolatherapy for Mom & Baby ” by Xavier Van de Putte 2019
Cracked sores can make breastfeeding difficult due to the intense pain and sometimes bleeding they can cause. It's important to treat them as soon as the first symptoms appear so they don't develop into an infection.
You can help heal these painful cracks without stopping breastfeeding.
Here is what Xavier suggests as a recipe:
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50% HA bi-distilled from Egyptian Geranium 50% HA double-distilled from Cistus ladanifera |
The first hydrosol will soothe the wound and prevent the appearance of mycoses, while the second hydrosol will heal quickly.
In case of infection: gently dab with Tea tree hydrosol
Little extra:
Using HA on the breasts has no impact on lactation or the baby.
There is no need to wash the nipple before putting your baby back to the breast.
Thrush
Thrush is caused by a fungus. It can affect both mother and baby.
In babies, it appears as white patches in the mouth that persist when rubbed and can cause redness on the bottom.
Mom may feel nipple pain inside her breast. It feels as if her breast is being pierced by needles. The nipple may be cracked and red or otherwise unremarkable.
The solution is prevention, use the double-distilled hydrosol of Egyptian Geranium after each feeding.
but what to do in case of thrush:
- Green Fresh Mouthwash: This synergy of bi-distilled hydrosols of Peppermint, True Cinnamon, Rosemary, Oregano, Bay Leaf, and Baking Soda. This alcohol-free mouthwash is ultra-gentle yet ultra-effective.
- Use: spray locally outside of meals on each side of the mouth with each dose or use a pipette to place a few drops in the oral cavity.
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Laurel hydrosol is very popular for oral care thanks to its antiseptic and anti-infectious action.
Reduce sugary foods and dairy products (2)
If there is no improvement after five days, consult a doctor.
Sore breasts:
The immortelle chamomile hydrosol gel, thanks to its soothing and calming action, will reduce the pain threshold. In addition, the draining action will more easily decongest the breast during feeding. A little wonder to soothe mom and restore her confidence.
Let's go a little further....
Tips for effective daily breastfeeding
Breast milk best meets the baby's needs because it evolves with the baby. Lactation is determined by the frequency of feedings and the correct position within the baby's breast. The frequency and duration of feedings vary greatly between individuals because they are determined by both milk flow and fat concentration.
For good breastfeeding, it is recommended: (3)
- to have a balanced and varied diet with a good intake of polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega 3 and omega 6) via oily fish or vegetable oils. (rapeseed, camelina)
- avoid alcohol consumption, as it can have effects on the baby, reduce lactation and the ejection reflex.
- to prohibit tobacco consumption, as it has a direct impact on lactation by reducing prolactin levels and reducing the ejection reflex. The quantity of milk produced may also be reduced.
Did you know?
It is recommended: (4)
- to breastfeed exclusively in practice if possible for 6 months
- to let the baby suckle
- until he lets go of the breast before changing breasts or before stopping breastfeeding.
- in the case of a "breast pump" to give milk while respecting the circadian rhythm
Breast milk: a “chronobiotic”
Its micronutritional composition varies during the different daytime feedings.
If you express your milk in the morning, it will be richer in tyrosine
If you express your milk in the evening, it will be richer in tryptophan and melatonin.
What does this mean?
It is important to note the time you pumped your milk because it is important to give the morning milk in the morning and not in the evening because this will stimulate baby.... hello sleepless nights...
Breastfeeding and attachment
Breastfeeding allows for skin-to-skin contact between mother and baby. Breastfeeding therefore meets not only the baby's nutritional needs, but also their need for warmth and security.
Because breastfeeding allows for frequent interactions between mother and baby, the bond is strengthened. This closeness also occurs every time a mother holds her baby to offer a bottle.(5)
To strengthen this bond, spray a mixture of bi-distilled Damask rose hydrosol and Roman chamomile hydrosol around you before breastfeeding. You will both be bathed in an atmosphere of calm and love. The ideal atmosphere for breastfeeding peacefully.
Happy breastfeeding with hydrosols to accompany you in this beautiful adventure.
Deborah
References:
(1) https://www.who.int/fr/health-topics/breastfeeding#tab=tab_1
(2) Baudoux's toddler ailments
(3) Study: "Nutrition: Breastfeeding"
(4) SIIN training (Neuronutrition & ASD 2016-2018)
(5) To be born and to grow up
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