Dos and Don’ts Of Postpartum

Postpartum Recovery

Author –Dr Preety Aggarwal

MBBS, DGO, DNB,

 

Medical Director (Gurgaon)- Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Motherhood Hospitals, Lullanagar

Post pregnancy care

So, you’ve finally delivered your bouncing bundle of joy. Your family is ecstatic, you are relieved, and things are relaxed. Soon, you want to get back to your normal routine – work, chores, regular activities etc. But wait, let it take time. Take it easy. Your recovery postpartum cannot happen in a few days. In fact a full recovery from delivery can take months. While you will begin to feel normal in about 6-8 weeks, it does take a longer time to heal completely.

Usually the postpartum period is referred to as the six week period post-delivery. This is a delicate time for you, the mother, the baby, and the members of the family. Slowly adjust to the fact that you are a mother. There is a certain rhythm that needs to fall into place. Discover it. Firm it up. Adjust it in such a way that it works for you and your baby. Here is what you need to do postpartum.

Get plenty of rest. Sleep as much as you can. Take your time as you cope with the fatigue and tiredness.

Take the help of people around you. If you have relatives or professional help do ask them to do things for you. You need all the help you can get.

Food is extremely important. Maintain a healthy diet consisting of proteins and carbs. Eat in time and follow the same time each day. Ensure you are consuming fibre-rich foods (whole grains, vegetables and fruits). Use stool softeners to ensure a regular bowel movement and avoid straining. This is not good for your perineal tears or C-section scar if you have one.

As your recovery progresses, do begin to walk/ exercise after talking to your doctor. Don’t overdo it. Definitely do not ignore it.

Here are a few things you are advised not to do in this period.

Do not insert anything into the vagina – Based on the kind of delivery you have had, you will be surprised at the kind of changes in your vagina. This includes the stress, stretching and the bleeding. You may feel you are back to normal, opt to resume sex or using tampons. Do wait till your doctor approves these activities. The important thing is the risk of infection.

Postpartum Recovery

Your uterus would still be healing post-delivery and if you had vaginal stress, that region would be healing too. It is advised not to use any internal devices such as menstrual cups or tampons considering that there could be an infection on these wounds. Usually bleeding post birth lasts up to 6 weeks. So use pads during this period and remember to change them frequently and wash your hands to prevent infections. As for resuming sex, doctors may recommend waiting for up to 6 weeks after delivery.

Do not overexert yourself – Of course you want to do the best for your baby. Feedings, diaper changes, cleaning all resulting in very little sleep. Take rest and recharge yourself. If you stress yourself too much, you might bleed, cause muscle strain and suffer from anxiety. Take it easy. Do only what you can. Walk gently and do not exercise heavily. Stop exercising if you feel pain. Rest to the maximum.

If there is pain, speak to your doctor – Women could have some pain after delivery but the duration could vary. The usual pain includes:

  • Cramping as a result of the uterus shrinking to its previous (pre delivery) size
  • Pain between the vagina and anus
  • Pain in the region of the incision and sutures
  • Pain or stiffness in the neck, back, and joints
  • Pain due to swelling of breasts

It is advisable to see the doctor if you have: 

  • A headache that cannot be addressed with medication or one that affects your vision
  • Pain and fever over 100.4°F
  • Pain when passing urine
  • Heavy bleeding
  • Pain in a specific region of the breast with reddishness or fever
  • Smelly discharge
  • Pain along with swelling in the legs
  • Difficulty in breathing

Do speak with the doctor who may examine and recommend OTC pain relievers or other medications.

Do not ignore if you are feeling depressed – If you are feeling sad or anxious or stressed in the first fourteen days postpartum, speak to your doctor. Remember you are not alone. Several women go through these symptoms and you must be checked for postpartum depression. Symptoms could include crying, anger, feeling withdrawn, not willing to interact with others or feeling positive.

Don’t fail to use birth control – Remember you could get pregnant after 6-8 weeks post-delivery. Do speak to your doctor about birth control and the options available to you and use them as you resume having sex. Options include: Intrauterine Device (IUD), birth control implant, birth control injection, sterilization or progestin-only birth control.

Stop smoking and drug usage – If you or your partner is a smoker, get immediate support to quit. Smoking damages your health and secondhand smoke is a key risk factor for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Smoking could also cause asthma or other respiratory problems in babies.

With usage of drugs too, you risk your or your baby’s life Stop using opioids, cocaine, cannabis or other commonly used recreational drugs and practice a clean and healthy lifestyle.

Remember, the first few months post-delivery, is a period of learning for you and your family. Take it easy and adjust slowly, as your new life falls into a routine. Enjoy the experience without stressing yourself too much and just be mindful and aware.

At Motherhood Hospitals, we have a dedicated team of experts and super specialists with years of experience in addressing a variety of issues related to women and children. If you have an issue you wish to discuss, do take an appointment with one of our experts at a centre near you. You are assured of an accurate investigation, effective diagnosis and treatment ensuring you lead an active life.

Book your Appointment with Dr Preety Aggarwal for all Gynaecological issues.

When should I seek medical help for my newborn?

Dr. Sunil Puraswani  - Best Pediatrician near me

Author: Dr. Sunil Puraswani  MBBS, MD (Paediatrics), Fellowship in Neonatology

Consultant – Paediatrician and Neonatologist at Motherhood Hospitals, Indore

Dr. Sunil Puraswani  - Best Pediatrician near me


Parenthood is an exciting phase but along with it comes several challenges as well. Providing neonatal care is not an easy task since newborns don’t come with any instruction manual. With so many self-proclaimed newborn caring experts present around, you may often find yourself in a situation where you may not what’s the best. And times like being clueless about the right action for your baby’s health is something you want to avoid. 

It’s fine if you are worried after seeing certain symptoms in your newborn which may be harmless. On the other hand, it’s also risky to avoid these symptoms and not look for the best neonatal services in Bangalore since it may lead to serious health conditions. Your thumb role should be “When in doubt, consult your doctor”. Also, avoid going to hospitals for every small matter since it may put an effect on your savings while also exposing your newborn to various infections with frequent health care visits.

Best Pediatrician Motherhood Hospitals, Indore


Symptoms and signs of sickness in your newborn

Practically it is not possible to call your doctor every single moment during the small issues but the following symptoms and signs are something which you shouldn’t avoid:

1. Your baby is avoiding required feed

The first sign of a sick baby is avoiding the required dose of feed. Since babies have small stomachs, they need to be fed at small and frequent intervals along with having very little energy reserves. If your newborn is not showing interest in feeding then you need to get in touch with your doctor.

2. Your baby’s skin is too warm or cold

A small baby’s body is capable of catching a cold or fever very quickly. In case your baby’s skin is too cold or too warm then start with checking their temperature. A temperature of 100.4 F or higher is the sign of fever while 97.7 F or lower is too low for your baby. Contact the child doctor or best fetal medicine specialist for further advice.

3. Your baby is dehydrated

If you want to check whether your baby is dehydrated then you can look for lack of tears when the baby cries, reduced number of wet diapers (normal frequency is 6-8 diapers a day), sunken soft spot on the baby’s head, dry mouth and sunken eyes. Dehydration can be a dangerous situation for your baby and should be addressed immediately with the best neonatal intensive care unit.

4. Disturbed bowel movements

Take note of the number of wet and messy diapers your child makes, too few or too many is the sign of disturbed bowel movements. In case of signs like hard or scanty stools, loose or watery stools or a baby struggling during bowel movements, get in touch with your child’s paediatrician.

5. Change in behaviour

In case you see your baby being too lethargic, floppy, sleepy or crying inconsolably, it is a sign for you to get in touch with your child’s doctor.

6. Rashes on the skin

Contact your child specialist if you see your child’s skin developing rashes, mottled or pale on the body with a temperature that’s higher or lower than normal. Apart from this, your baby’s doctor needs to be contacted in case of developing jaundice that doesn’t go away or spreads throughout the body parts.

7. Difficulty in breathing

Rapid breathing, grunting, stuffy nose, flaring nostrils, coughing, retraction of the ribs or bluish skin colour are the signs to contact your paediatrician immediately.

8. Eye or ear discharge

Sticky discharge from one or both eyes or ear drainage needs immediate attention from your paediatrician.

9. Appearance of blood

Blood appearing in the baby’s spit-up, poop, nose discharge or navel should be immediately addressed by the doctor. Apart from this, pain or bleeding from the penis is also a concerning situation.

At Motherhood Hospitals, we deliver exceptional healthcare services to women and children with highest standard of care and competence.

Book your Appointment with Dr. Sunil Puraswami for all the paediatrics related issues.

Importance Of Diapers In Baby Care Routine

For any mother, the toothless baby smiles would mean the world to her. One of the important keys to your child’s happiness is clean and dry diapers. It might sound like a trivial matter but for your baby to have a pleasant day with less irritability, diapers play a major role. This is not only related to your child’s happiness but also very crucial for upkeeping the health of your child along with hygiene factors. Along with food, diapers also form a major component of a baby’s well-being. 

By now, you must be aware that your baby requires frequent diaper changes, especially in the early stages. Approximately, 6-10 diapers are required to be changed daily. This will reduce over a period when the child reaches the toddler stage and learns a bit of toilet training. You can avoid any discomfort your baby might have to undergo by frequently checking the diapers.  It is important to check the diapers after you feed your little one. 

Do you know that if you don’t change the diapers when required, your baby has the risk of developing diaper rash, infections, and other health issues? Let us look at some important aspects of diapers and their importance in baby health and happiness. 

Though there are many brands available in the market, check out the ones that have greater absorption capacity and which are cottony soft on your baby’s skin.

Browse through the brands that will give great comfort and proven history of fewer rashes. You must be wondering how you would know which brand is good for your baby? For this query, you can always check with your doctor and some friendly advice from other mothers in your peer group could be helpful.  

Going by this approach, you can avoid the woes of using a  not-so-friendly diaper product. Look for diapers that the baby is comfortable wearing as well as equally less-cumbersome for you to pull down the same without causing much irritation to the baby. 

You must be aware of diapers that can be worn like underwear with a band. Purchasing such diapers could help serve the purpose of a hassle-free experience for your child and you. 

Here are some points to remember for your baby’s diaper  change routine: 

  • Always keep some warm water, cotton, and baby wipes handy before you start changing the diapers. 
  • Have some recommended lotions or creams that could prevent a rash on the baby’s skin. 
  • Always use separate wipes for different parts of the urinary area to avoid any spread of infections. 
  • Remember to wipe from the front to the back and ensure to clean the entire area gently. 
  • After wiping, don’t forget to pat dry your baby. 

Hope that the details related to the diaper change routine and its importance have been useful to you. For more information on diapers and everything connected, talk to our experts. 

Understanding Your Baby Crying

Most of you would agree that apart from sleeping and feeding, crying is the most common behaviour seen in newborn babies. No matter what part of the day or night, mothers have the in-built alarm that rings, when the child cries. When the infant reaches the stage of 6-8 weeks, crying is at its summit. Do not worry, as this phase is temporary and this too shall pass! Most important is understanding the messages your child conveys through his/her crying. Have you been having a difficult time understanding the meaning behind your little one’s crying?

Do you know that infants cry for approximately three hours a day? Have you observed that most of this crying and sulking happens during late afternoons and sometimes evenings as well? However, this doesn’t apply to all babies alike, as there could be exceptions. Some babies are unusually calm and it is always good to seek medical help in these cases too. 

Babies communicate through their crying and when you respond on time consistently, they feel reassured and safe. This sense of safety helps in promoting the overall development of the child. Some babies cry incessantly and with no apparent reason which can be described as colic. We have in detail explained about colic in another feature of the Ÿ??Happy Kids series. Please feel free to reach out to us if you want to have an e-copy of the same. 

Babies cry primarily for reasons such as, when they feel hungry,  irritated, lonely, etc. It is good when you feed your baby on time and when you feed your baby immediately after he/she cries,  the baby will also feel a sense of reassurance and safety. In some cases, the crying decreases as the needs are taken care of. Here  are some quick tips and precautions: 

  • Sometimes the baby might need a nappy change or just a  cuddle or a gentle hug. Holding the baby will help to comfort the baby soon.  
  • You can also try singing a soft tune to your baby.  
  • Gently rhythmically pat your baby and this works like magic for most babies.  
  • A little bit of movement can help divert the attention of your baby when he/she starts crying. Take your baby for a little walk and see the change.  
  • On this note, please donŸ??t carry your baby to noisy public places such as cinema theatres, auditoriums, etc. The huge sounds can cause distress for your baby and also hurt their gentle ears.  

While it is important to calm your baby down and comfort with cuddles and cooing, it is equally crucial for you to take care of your well-being. The constant crying and sometimes your inability to soothe your baby into calmness might be a stressful experience for you. In case you are unable to take the strain,  please talk to your spouse and family members and seek help in taking care of the child. In case you want to speak to someone for professional advice, do consult your doctor if needed. 

The key is to quickly respond to the baby’s cries and you will see a difference for yourself. Babies need attention and every parent/caretaker is required to give that care always. For more information on baby crying and related topics, talk to  our experts.

WHEN TO SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION FOR YOUR SICK BABY?

It is often a difficult choice for mothers to make whether to care for the sick baby at home or to seek medical help. When is the right time for a parent to make this important call?  Sometimes, what seems like a minor ailment can turn into a  major health complication, when left untreated without any proper medical attention. You need not fret for every little thing.  Nevertheless, whenever you are in doubt, do not hesitate to take medical guidance as the right professional help can safeguard your precious little one from serious illnesses and severe infections. 

In this feature, let us understand the various aspects of seeking medical attention at the right time when your baby falls sick. 

High temperature: One of the most important red flags of  0 warning would be fever with a temperature higher than 102 F.  It is always better not to delay, especially when you observe that the temperature doesn’t drop even after a day.  

Diarrhoea and vomiting: Look out for severe loose motions and vomiting, sometimes with the presence of blood. Irrespective of using quick home remedies, this condition requires immediate medical attention. 

Breathing issues: If you observe rapid and heavy breathing in your baby, this could often be connected with lungs and chest congestion. Please do not take this easily as the regular flow of oxygen is very important for your baby’s well-being.

Urinary issues: If your baby has difficulty urinating or passing stool, this could be because of a urinary infection. This can be quite uncomfortable and painful for the baby causing much agony to the parents as well. Timely medical intervention can help resolve the problem. 

Vaccinations: As discussed in our earlier article on the importance of immunization, please follow the vaccination schedule for various diseases such as flu, hepatitis, polio, etc. This will help you prevent a whole lot of diseases and improve your baby’s immunity to counter any infections in the future. 

Eye problems: If you observe discharge in your baby’s eyes which could be caused due to irritants such as baby products or some allergic substances, then please consult the doctor immediately. Some of the signs to catch are swelling of the eyelids, watery eyes, etc. In such cases, please don’t be tempted to line your kid’s eyes with kohl or kajal. Keep them natural as such beauty enhancers can irritate your baby’s eyes. 

Other health-related issues: In cases of persistent sore throat,  severe headache, or pain in the stomach area which are commonly occurring symptoms along with fever, please seek medical advice. 

Dullness and inactivity: If you observe that your child is not at his/her playful self and exhibits dull and inactive behaviour persistently, then please speak to your doctor. Though the child might not experience overwhelming health issues, sometimes this can be linked to his/her overall well-being and any medical conditions in disguise. 

We understand that caring for a sick baby can take an emotional toll on the parent. However, with the right kind of medical attention, you can help your baby regain health and happiness.  Please understand that these symptoms or signs may not appear very scary but a little delay on your side can cause a  major impact. Our message would be: Don’t worry too much but at the same time, don’t take your baby’s health lightly. 

For more information on this topic, talk to our experts. 

Breastfeeding And Its Countless Benefits

Breastfeeding And Its Countless Benefits

Motherhood: All love begins and ends there. Trust that you cherish every moment with your little bundle of joy. Every mother goes through a phase of self-doubt and wants to offer the best care possible. One of the primary aspects of caregiving is breastfeeding.

Despite the divided opinion, do you know that breast milk is undeniably the perfect nourishment that you can give to your child? The medical community globally recommends breastfeeding for the first six months that can be continued with a healthy diet of vegetables, fruits, food grains, etc.

It is a personal decision. However, we would like to help you with information related to the benefits of breastfeeding. Ultimately, it is your choice!

Some quick facts on breast milk:

1. Do you know that breast milk-fed babies have a faster recovery rate from sickness or infections when compared to formula-fed babies? 

2. Are you aware that breastfeeding reduces the crying spells in young ones and also helps them through the vaccination phase? 

3. Do you know that breastfeeding helps in comforting and soothing the baby when in pain or discomfort? 

4. Are you aware that a new-born baby would require 8-12 feeding sessions in a day? 

5. Do you know that colostrum, the yellowish, thick milk  produced in the first few days is very beneficial for your baby It is potent with antibodies. 

6. Are you aware the breast milk is easily digestible for your  baby?  

With the perfect combination of vitamins, protein, and fat, breast milk is essential for your baby’s good health and growth.

Here are some benefits: 

You will be glad to know that breastfeeding can prevent diseases such as allergies, respiratory tract infections, diabetes, etc. It’s in your hands to minimize the risks.

For better immunity and a higher IQ, breastfeeding is an easy  solution. This will help your baby will grow into a healthy and  smart child. 

Due to the beneficial gut bacteria consumed through breastfeeding, your child can maintain a healthy weight and  have a reduced risk of childhood obesity. 

In addition to the innumerable benefits ensured to your child, breastfeeding will help you in these ways: 

Do you wish to drop off the extra pounds gained during  pregnancy? Breastfeeding will help you get back to your pre pregnancy weight by burning of fat and calories. 

Minimize the risks of breast and ovarian cancer in the future. By caring for your child, you are also caring for yourself. 

Research says that mothers who breastfeed their babies are at a lower risk of depression. Breastfeeding helps in your mental and emotional well-being.  

Being diagnosed with infertility itself may distress you. You should give yourself at least 3-6 months and start preparing your body for IVF. You may have lesser time than 3-6 months. It’s best to start preparing yourself physically and emotionally for an experience lasting for months.

In a nutshell, breastfeeding is extremely beneficial to your baby and you. It is a healthy, effortless, and cost-effective way of child  care. It is a precious and most personal gift that you can give to  your child. A joyful and hassle-free motherhood experience is on  your way. Have you made the choice yet? For more information on the countless advantages of  breastfeeding, talk to our experts.

Understanding Colic

 

Every mother loves to see the smiles of her child but not the painful crying. It would be quite stressful for mothers, especially new mothers to see her baby crying. Every parent would have been through such a situation. Are you concerned with your little one’s crying? One of the causes is colic and every parent needs to understand more about this condition. 

Colic is prolonged and intense crying or irritability in a healthy infant. Do you know that about 1 in 5 babies have colic? This kind of episode can start from three weeks of age and gradually subside when the baby is 3-4 months. How can you detect that your baby is suffering from colic? Check out for signs when your baby cries uninterruptedly even after a cuddling session with the mother. 

Some important aspects of colic that you need to know are: 

  • Painful crying with screeching, screaming quality 
  • Crying without a definite reason even after a feed and diaper change 
  • Continued irritability even after the crying episode has ended 
  • Discolouration of the face and stiffened legs & arms  
  • Crying episodes happen around the same time every day
  • Interrupted and erratic sleep schedules 

Food allergies, issues in the digestive system, etc. are some of the possible causes. Though it does not cause severe medical issues to the child, it is a stressful time for the parents. Don’t fret about this situation as this is a regular aspect of the baby’s early growth phase and won’t last forever. To help alleviate pain, you can try some of these easy home interventions: 

  • Lay your baby on his/her tummy, or give a nice, gentle rub on the tummy 
  • Wrap around a soft blanket around your baby and hold  him/her close to you 
  • Lay your baby on your lap and give a gentle massage on the  back 
  • To calm your baby down, a pacifier is a good go-to solution
  • Give a nice, warm bath to your baby

While you are taking care of your baby with colic, ensure to take care of yourself. Plan out the colic care schedule with your spouse so that you can have a few hours to unwind and vice versa. While music can soothe your child while having a colic spell, it can work wonders on you and help you overcome anxiety. Wear your headphones and listen to some pleasant music while you are tending your baby. Sometimes, a little sharing can be helpful. Speak to a friend or a counsellor if you need a listening ear. This can help you beat the blues. 

We hope that you understand colic in a better manner. Though it might not be a major matter of concern; it is always good to know about colic and if there’s anything more than the usual,  medical help is always available. Understand the symptoms of colic in terms of the frequency of episodes, patterns, etc. 

In case your baby experiences more discomfort and cries  intensely more than the regular norm, talk to our experts. 

New-Born Baby Care Essentials – 10 Essential Things To Know!

 

Motherhood is a continuous learning experience. Are you ready to journey through some essentials to learn more about your little one? Here are 10 things to know about your new-born baby: 

1. Baby feed: Your baby may often feel hungry. Make sure to feed your baby every 2-3 hours. Please don’t be tempted to feed your baby with solids to keep the stomach full. Strictly, no solids,  please. 

2. Holding with care: Holding a newborn baby can be a frightful experience. However, holding your baby for 2 hours in a day can be soothing. Holding your baby can promote breastfeeding,  improves confidence in the baby, and also strengthens the bond between the baby and the parent. Hold your bundle of happiness close to your heart. You will see the difference! 

3. Baby products: Use products free from fragrances and chemicals. As your baby might be sensitive or allergic to certain fragrances or chemicals, it is always the best way forward to use gentle and safe products, namely soaps, powders, lotions, etc. 

4. Massages: Give gentle massages as it will help your baby relax. Massages help to promote development in muscles and keep tummy problems at bay. Massaging will also help your confusion as you would not know the real cause of your baby’s crying Ÿ?? whether it is hunger, pain, discomfort, etc. Gradually,  you will become better at this. Understand and respond! 

8. Diaper changes: Do you know that your baby might require frequent diaper changes? Prepare mentally for this routine. On average, you might require to change the diaper approximately 6-10 times a day. This will help to avoid any discomfort your baby might undergo due to frequent discharge of urine or stool. Check your baby’s diapers after every feeding session. 

9. Tummy time: Ensure that your baby spends more time on his/her tummy during his/her waking time as this will promote strength in the back muscles. However, please take care that your baby doesn’t sleep on the tummy. 

10. Umbilical cord: Don’t be in a hurry to clip off the remnant of the umbilical cord. If you apply even little force or do anything to remove the umbilical cord unnaturally, this can lead to infections. Just keep it dry. It will fall off on its own. 

For more information on new-born care essentials, talk  to our experts.

Which foods increase breast milk?

A healthy pregnancy and childbirth skyrocket you to cloud nine. Another phase of affection and mushiness approaches you right after childbirth. That’s right! It’s about how a mother starts feeding her munchkin. Good pregnancy care is the doorway to many subsequent reasons to celebrate. And motherhood sets out to become a complete pack of elation when a new mother starts feeding her new-born. 

Mother nutrition is yet another subject of importance both during and after the pregnancy. A few important tips for new mothers may help them make the most out of their newfound motherhood. Manufacture of milk functions like a supply and demand system. The mother’s body provides milk in response to the demand received. Distributing the right proportion of milk regularly from the breasts is critical to consolidating and maintaining an ample milk supply.

Here’s how you can start:

A. The first few days after childbirth are most important. Make sure you regularize skin to skin contact from birth. 

B. You may have a regular attendant or lactation consultant at the hospital. Ask them to audit positioning and latch techniques. It will help you maximize effective breastfeeding.

C. Feed your baby each time you notice the signs of hunger in him/her. The signs may include but may not be limited to licking lips, fondling the mouth and tongue thrusting. 

D. It’s obvious and usual for the babies to expect to breastfeed as often as every 1-3 hours. Breastmilk is digestible and wholesome. It’s recommended to breastfeed the baby frequently. 

E. Hunger cues in babies are important. Avoid using pacifiers at least until the milk supply is well established. Once the baby starts gaining weight, it would be the right time to resort to pacifiers. But using pacifiers in early motherhood may decrease milk supply. They might even lead to weight loss in a baby.?˜

And below is the list of foods to regularly include in your diet and enjoy breastfeeding your munchkin. These are the foods that will increase your breast milk.

  • Unripe Papaya:

As your journey from motherhood progresses to a new phase, you may plan on a diet that suits your nutritional requirements. Unripe papaya functions as a natural sedative. It allows you to relax. You may consider using the unripe papaya even in your salad preparations. Many Asian countries consider unripe papaya as a noteworthy galactagogue. 

  • Carrots:

A carrot is a root vegetable. Being a rich source of Vitamin A, carrot boosts the quality of milk production. Carrots facilitate healthy lactation. You may consider eating raw carrots in salads or enjoy them as juice. Take a cup of carrot juice for your breakfast. Carrots are readily available worldwide and are the facilitators of healthy lactation. 

  • Asparagus:

Asparagus is a rich source of fibre, vitamin A and vitamin K. It stimulates the hormones responsible for lactation. You may consider using asparagus as a garnish on your favourite delicacies or saut?? it with your desired snack.?˜

  • Barley:

Barley facilitates lactation. It helps keep your water levels healthy. You may use barley in your favourite salad. Soak the barley overnight and drink the water the next day. 

  • Bitter gourd:

Bitter gourd shines out as a nutritious vegetable with many features. The water content in bitter gourd boosts healthy levels of hydration. Being easy to digest, it helps boost a healthy production of breastmilk. Most of us dislike bitter gourd for its bitter taste. We can, however, make it far more palatable and tastier with recipes available nowadays online and in magazines. 

  • Sweet potato:

Energy is one of the irreplaceable aspects of a healthy pregnancy. While facilitating trimester care, pregnant women count on the foods that energize them. Sweet potato is a rich source of carbohydrates providing energy. B-Complex, vitamin c and magnesium are the other important vitamins present in it. You may use sweet potato in various regional and national delicacies. It’s easy to cook and available almost everywhere. 

  • Almonds:

Dry fruits are revered worldwide for various properties and health benefits. Almonds are rich in vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids. Full of polyunsaturated fats, almonds make a fabulous choice for all who want nuggets of nutrition. Raw almonds are a favourite food for many dynamic people worldwide. You may consider using almond supplements to boost a healthy milk supply. Baked and roasted almonds make memorable snacks worldwide. We love them for their health benefits and a piquant aroma. Many doctors prescribe almonds for nursing mothers. 

  • Water:

We often love drinking a large dose of water after an hour of strenuous workout. And when the climate becomes warm, cool water is something we love relying on. How can we overlook water while considering breast milk production? Hydration is an irreplaceable part of a diet dedicated to healthy milk production. Enjoy every glass at regular intervals or sporadically. Don’t consume a large amount in a go. 

  • Milk:

The nutritional value of breastmilk plays a crucial role in shaping your baby’s health. Milk is a rich source of healthy fats, calcium and folic acid. These are the nutrients helpful not only in the production but also the nutrition of the breastmilk produced. Enjoying a glass of milk twice a day may facilitate ample milk production. 

  • Chickpeas:

?˜Chickpeas are known for various health benefits. Chickpeas are also regarded as a superfood rich in fibre, protein and B-complex. Being a source of calcium, chickpeas may aid breast milk production.?˜

You may include various other food items in your platter. They may be Fenugreek seeds, garlic, green leafy vegetables, fennel seeds, sesame seeds, cumin seeds and holy basil// ensure that you are producing enough breastmilk?

  1. Healthy breastfeeding will be comfortable for you and your baby. It will involve nil to negligible pain. 
  2. A healthy daily schedule of feeds involves at least 8 to 12 feeds a day. 
  3. It’s a good sign that your baby wishes to feed often. Breastmilk is easily digestible and your baby may enjoyably nurse again and again. Most healthy babies prefer breastfeeding every 1.5 to 2 hours. 
  4. When you produce enough breastmilk, your breasts tend to feel mushier and lighter after every feed.
  5. Assess your baby’s reflexes each time your baby swallows while feeding.
  6. After each healthy feed, your baby would be off the breast on his/her own. 
  7. Check your baby’s weight regularly.
  8. You may prefer getting your munchkin assessed regularly by a good paediatrician.
  9. Don’t feel apprehensive if you notice weight loss in your baby immediately after birth. This may resolve within five to six days after birth. 
  10. By the end of the fourteenth day, he or she will be back to the original weight carried at birth. 
  11. Nurse your baby regularly so that the milk gets removed from the breast properly at definite intervals. 
  12. You may prefer nursing your munchkin at a frequency of 1.5 to 2 hours. 

What foods to avoid while breastfeeding?

You may have just discovered that you might be pregnant. You are already feeling the excitement. And congratulations on starting one of the best phases of your life. However, your diet in pregnancy and breastfeeding influences your baby’s health in various ways. Breastfeeding care is also one of the most important subjects in postpartum health. The pre-pregnancy period gives you ample time to decide on the right diet and healthy lifestyle choices. 

Healthy breastfeeding diet – what does it mean?

A healthy pregnancy diet or breastfeeding diet doesn’t just mean eating for two. The facts may contradict a few beliefs prevailing today. The onset of the 3rd month of pregnancy implies that you just need an extra 200-300 kcal per day in addition to your diet before pregnancy. A healthy diet involves a mixture of various food items that satiate your nutritional requirements. Add lots of fruits, vegetables, beans and lentils with a small amount of dairy and meat if and as needed. 

What are the foods to avoid while breastfeeding?

While dietary essentials and multivitamins prescribed by your obstetrician/dietician are important, you should avoid certain foods and lifestyle habits while breastfeeding. 

Below are the foods to avoid while breastfeeding:

  • Fish with high mercury:

The consumption of fish high in mercury level or other foods with mercury may affect breastfeeding. Breast milk with high mercury levels may interfere with your baby’s neurological development. If your obstetrician asks you to avoid seafood, avoid it strictly. If you love to eat fish or seafood, make sure that you don’t exceed two portions a week. 

  • Peanuts:

It’s best to avoid peanuts if your family has a history of allergies to peanuts. The allergens in the peanuts might progress into the production of breastmilk. They may hamper your baby’s health. As a result, the baby may suffer from various health issues. The disorders may include hives or rashes and at times, cough with wheezing. Even a small consumption of peanuts ends up complicating the production and nutritional value of your breastmilk. 

  • Alcohol:

Never drink alcohol in pregnancy. Even occasional drinking is forbidden in certain cases. Alcohol tends to cross the placenta and hamper your baby’s growth in various ways. It may create physical, mental or growth issues in babies. Most obstetricians will forbid you from drinking alcohol the day you conceive. Avoiding alcohol while breastfeeding is as important as avoiding it throughout pregnancy.  

  • Citrus fruits:

Citrus fruits are known to give a sense of relaxation. They are perhaps the best source of Vitamin C. But they can interfere with your baby’s tummy as they are acidic. Babies have an amateur gastrointestinal tract. Therefore, it’s hard for their gastrointestinal tract to digest the acidic components. Babies may develop rashes and start spitting up after you breastfeed them. Although grapefruits and oranges can be fussy during breastfeeding, you won’t have to remove them from your diet. If you think you are prone to their adverse effects, opt for the other vitamin-C rich fruits. You may consider including pineapples or mangoes in your diet. 

  • Broccoli:

Broccoli is a vegetable that offers dozens of health benefits. But if you are to breastfeed your munchkin, avoid Broccoli. If you will breastfeed your baby after consuming Broccoli, your baby may develop flatulence or gassiness. Even onions, cauliflower, cabbage and cucumber cause flatulence. It’s best to avoid or restrict them while you breastfeed your baby. 

  • Coffee:

The various ways caffeine impacts the foetus are under scientific scrutiny. The amount of caffeine in coffee is double the amount in cocoa, colas and tea. Try to limit your coffee intake or abstain from it throughout your breastfeeding phase. Some portion of caffeine from the coffee you regularly consume may end up in your breast milk. Insomnia and irritability are the two main signs that caffeine in your breastmilk is affecting your child’s health. Caffeine may cause other detrimental effects. It may include a decrease in the levels of haemoglobin. Caffeine hampers the iron content in the milk interfering with the baby’s overall nutrition. 

  • Chocolate:

Chocolate, tea and coffee have a common feature. They stimulate the brain. They are the stimulants that uplift your mood. Chocolate is a rich source of Theobromine. Theobromine is known for an effect similar to caffeine. You might be a chocoholic. But it’s time now to take a break. If you are breastfeeding, restrict the occasions you prefer chocolate or chocolate drinks on. Analyse the way your baby behaves if you breastfeed your baby after enjoying your favourite chocolate. If you see irritation and crankiness in your baby, it’s a likely sign that chocolate traces in your breastmilk are affecting your baby. The erratic and grumpy behaviour of your baby becomes more evident if you consume over 750 mg of Theobromine every day. It may cause insomnia in the mother as well. 

  • Peppermint:

Herbs are known to cure old ailments. They act as a remedy when you have almost no other alternative around. They are helpful specifically if you are allergic to certain medications. But when the herbs like peppermint are taken in large doses, they may interfere with the production of breastmilk. The mothers who are lactating should always avoid peppermint. 

  • Garlic:

Breastmilk is vulnerable to various dietary habits and lifestyle choices. The smell of garlic may interfere with the smell of breastmilk. If your baby develops apathy or discomfort while nursing, it’s likely that your baby dislikes the breastmilk. Many babies start frowning when they encounter the smell of garlic. It’s better to avoid garlic when you are breastfeeding. 

  • Dairy products:

Food intolerances and food allergies are growing nowadays due to various reasons. Some babies may develop intolerance to cow milk. Allergens may enter breast milk if the mother is lactating and consuming dairy products in high quantity. Stop consuming dairy products temporarily if you see your baby developing an allergic reaction after you breastfeed your baby. Skin allergies, eczema and insomnia may follow if your baby is allergic to the breastmilk with traces of dairy products. Replace high-fat dairy products with something like organic food products or toned milk.