It is recommended that you breastfeed your child extensively. Breast milk is packed with a lot of health benefits. Furthermore, it helps you to create a bond with your bundle of joy. But what if you cannot breastfeed because of work or the baby cannot latch properly? Well, that is where you get help from a breast pump. If you are a first time mother, there is no doubt that you have a lot of questions going through your mind. Relax, just continue reading, and you will find all the answers you want regarding the best breast pump.

Ultimate guide

When to begin

It depends on you. In case you are planning to go back to work, then you can start immediately the baby is born. You can pump the milk and store it so that it is ready when you start going to work. It may be overwhelming at the beginning. However, if you feel you are not ready, you can take some weeks before you start. If you are stressed, then your milk supply will reduce. Therefore, it is best if you start plumbing when you are ready. It is advisable that you wait for 4 to eight weeks before you introduce your baby to the bottle.

Using the breast pump

At first, you may find it tricky to use a breast pump. It may look difficult, but it is very simple. Before you leave the hospital, you can just ask the nurse to bring the pumps so that you check it out. The nurses will show you how to use a breast pump. When using the pump, make sure that the phalange is at the center of your breast then turn on the machine. The machine will do the rest of the work. If you are using machine pump, then you have to place the cup on your nipple and use your hands to pump. However, do not worry because the breast pumps have instructions that will guide you.

Best time to pump

Do not pump immediately after breastfeeding your baby. It is advisable to pump one hour after breastfeeding. In doing so, you give your breasts enough time to refill. In case you pump immediately after breastfeeding, then you may cause more harm than good. However, most women have a lot of milk after giving birth and can pump immediately after nursing. Make sure that you do not feel any pain while pumping. There may be a slight tugging sensation, but there should be no pain

Though the results of both the massages are relaxing and therapeutic, the techniques used for prenatal massages vary drastically and needs to be performed with utmost care. Unlike generic massages, a pregnancy massage treat involves lighter, gentle and shorter strokes in the abdomen, lower back, and legs. The safety and comfort of the mother and baby are top priorities. Therefore, the massage uses less pressure and easy strokes to provide maximum benefits.

Benefits of Giving Massages at Home

Prenatal massages require a great deal of care and attention. The common belief is that only a certified therapist can give a specialized massage such as this. However, the good news is that you don’t have to be a professional masseuse to give a prenatal massage to yourself or a partner/spouse/family member.

If you have been taking an antenatal class, you would have received some basic training on pregnancy massage techniques. If you are not part of one, you could look up the Internet for different guides that give you a detailed description of how the massage can be done.

Consult a doctor before giving/getting massages during your pregnancy period. If you are giving a home pregnancy massage, research and understand the techniques well. Avoid the massage during the first trimester to eliminate the risk of miscarriage. If there are sores, wounds or existing conditions, do not massage those areas. Immediately report it to the doctor.

With a little effort and care, you could give the mother and baby the best of health, safety, joy and wellness through a prenatal massage.

Roles of pregnancy massage

• It helps your body release endorphins, which are formed within the body to reduce pain naturally.
• Stress is a common feature during pregnancy, and these massages aid in significantly reducing stress; while reducing the stress hormones, it also works on releasing feel-good hormones like serotonin.
• Prenatal massage promotes good blood circulation to the body thereby, relieving edema and swelling in the legs and other parts of the body. The kneading action in the massage helps remove the water retention in pregnant women, which is a major catalyst for swelling.
• The massage is a major mood-uplifter and stress-reliever. It helps keep anxiety and stress levels at bay. Also, gentle strokes on the abdomen relax the baby.
• If sleeplessness or pregnancy-related insomnia is a concern, fret not. This massage enables good sleep, which is essential for the body during the pregnancy term.
• Another major benefit is that regular pregnancy massages prepare the muscles for childbirth and increases the flexibility of the joints.