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Is it safe to get massage while breastfeeding?

Is It Safe to Get a Massage While Breastfeeding?
The question of whether it is safe to receive a massage while breastfeeding is one that many new mothers ponder, especially as they navigate the complexities of postpartum recovery and infant care. The good news is that, generally speaking, it is safe to get a massage while breastfeeding.
Benefits of Massage for Nursing Mothers
Massage can offer several benefits for breastfeeding mothers. It may help alleviate discomfort associated with lactation, such as plugged milk ducts and swelling. Techniques like breast massage can even enhance milk flow and ease pain, making the breastfeeding experience more comfortable. Many mothers report positive experiences with postnatal massages, noting improvements in their overall well-being and lactation.
Concerns About Toxins
One concern that some mothers have is the potential release of toxins during a massage, which could theoretically affect breast milk. However, experts generally agree that the body’s natural detoxification processes are efficient, and the amount of toxins released during a massage is unlikely to pose a risk to breastfeeding. It is advisable, though, for mothers to breastfeed just before their massage appointment to minimize any concerns about leaking milk during the session.
Positioning During the Massage
Massage therapists are trained to accommodate the needs of breastfeeding mothers. They can perform massages in various positions, such as sitting up or lying on the side, which can be particularly comfortable for nursing mothers. This flexibility allows mothers to relax without worrying about their breastfeeding status.
Conclusion
In summary, receiving a massage while breastfeeding is generally safe and can provide significant benefits, including relief from discomfort and improved lactation. As always, it’s essential for mothers to communicate their needs and concerns with their massage therapist to ensure a comfortable and beneficial experience. So, if you’re a new mother considering a massage, feel free to indulge—your body deserves it!

Should I pump and dump after massage?

It’s a myth that massage releases toxins. No need to pump and dump.

Does massage increase milk supply?

For breastfeeding moms, milk supply – and how to increase milk supply – is a constant concern. Using your hands to massage your breasts during pumping or feeding can help express more of your milk, more fully emptying your breasts, which can help increase milk production.

What is not safe to do while breastfeeding?

What foods and drinks should I limit or avoid while breastfeeding?

  • Alcohol. There’s no level of alcohol in breast milk that’s considered safe for a baby.
  • Caffeine. Avoid drinking more than 2 to 3 cups (16 to 24 ounces) of caffeinated drinks a day.
  • Fish. Seafood can be a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.

How soon can you get a massage after giving birth?

As a general rule, following a vaginal delivery, you can receive massage as soon as you feel comfortable and would like to. Following a caesarean delivery, the standard recommendation is 4-6 weeks; after which point your incision will have healed and you will feel comfortable lying face down on the table.

Can I have a massage when breastfeeding?

Can I get a massage whilst breast feeding? In short… YES! I can massage clients in a variety of positions, and sometimes when doing with acute pain for example, the conventional face up, and face down approaches are off the cards. New mums who are breastfeeding is a good example.

Is it safe to get a pedicure while breastfeeding?

Using these cosmetic products as part of routine nail treatments should not cause you any concern, as there are no known increased risks for your pregnancy or your breastfed baby. If you have questions about exposures during pregnancy or breastfeeding, contact an expert at MotherToBaby.

Can I paint my nails while breastfeeding?

Nail treatments
As they are applied externally, they aren’t absorbed into the body and shouldn’t affect the baby.

What type of massage is best for postpartum?

Many different massage approaches are appropriate for a postpartum mom. A postpartum massage might include acupressure and foot reflexology. It can also include a Swedish massage or Jamu massage, a traditional Southeast Asian postpartum massage designed to relax and heal the postpartum body.

How close to birth can you get a massage?

As a general rule of thumb, antenatal massage can benefit you throughout your pregnancy with monthly appointments until around 27 weeks, then twice monthly appointments from around 27 weeks to 36 weeks, and weekly appointments from 36 weeks until you give birth.

Do and don’ts for breastfeeding?

When you’re breastfeeding, eat healthy foods, like fruits, vegetables, whole-grain breads and lean meats. Eat fewer sweets and salty snacks. You may need 450 to 500 extra calories a day when you’re breastfeeding to make breast milk for your baby. Drink lots of water.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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