The good news is that a mother's breast milk already contains many immune factors that discourage the growth of any bacteria or yeast around the area.
Breastfeeding your baby is one of the most special moments during early motherhood. It is the best way to ensure that your baby gets the right nutrients required for their growth. But it also builds an emotional bond between the mother and the baby.
And while many women do prepare for breastfeeding by investing in expensive feeding bras and breast pumps often we do not think of anything to invest in order to maintain breast hygiene when the baby is feeding, especially on how to clean your nipples after each session.
But before you thought that we are recommending some expensive breast care props then relax. Breast hygiene is mostly about simply following some simple rules to clean your nipples rather than any other elaborate external care.
How to clean your nipples during breastfeeding
1.Keep a couple of muslin cloths handy: This is perhaps all the investment you need to make in order to ensure that your baby gets healthy, happy feed every time breastfeed feed.
There is no set rule that you need to follow to prep or clean your breast every time your baby feeds. But as a healthy practice it is better to wipe your nipples with a wet, clean muslin cloth after every feed.
After wiping also wait a minute to ensure that your nipples are dry before putting on the bra. This will ensure that there is no moistness that is getting trapped inside.
2. Do not overdo: Doctors warn against any excessive care or cleaning of your breasts. The good news is that a mother's breast milk already contains many immune factors that discourage the growth of any bacteria or yeast around the area. Over washing or over cleaning of the area only leads to dryness.
3.Avoid body splashes: But it is better not to use any body splash or body mist near the breast area. Keep the cleaning process simple with just plain water and mild soap during bathing.
Usage of any extra lotions or fragrance is not recommended.
4.Invest in cotton bras: Some mums like buying good lingerie to uplift their mood while they may be struggling with the new realities of their life such as nappies and breastfeeding.
But it is advised only to invest in good quality cotton bras in breathable fabrics that ensure no bacteria gets trapped inside.
5.Change nursing pads often: If you are using nursing pads then it is recommended that you change it often. Wet nursing pads provide a festering ground for bacteria that may lead to infections or mastitis.
6. Treat cracked nipples: Any new mum would know the pain of sore nipples. But often the cure of sore nipples is just a dab or olive or coconut oil on your nipples.
The doctors too recommend nipple care ointments that are natural and safe for the baby. But as a healthy practice if you use a dab of oil even before you develop soar cracks it may go a long way in keeping your nipples perky. Before feeding though just wipe the oil off with the muslin cloth.
Read: Rijuta Diwekar recommends these 9 desi foods for all breastfeeding mums