Breastfeeding is a blessing in a child’s and the new mother’s lives. It gives you the time to bond with your child and fulfils their nutritional needs. But breastfeeding also comes with a few challenges of its own. Sore nipples, leaky breasts, and engorgement of the breast are a few most common problems a new mother usually faces. However, some of these problems can be fixed with good quality breast pads. So, before you decide to buy breast pads, here is an article to help you understand the importance of breast pads and all you need to know about them.
What Are Breast Pads
Breast pads, also known as nursing pads, are absorbent padding used by nursing and breastfeeding mothers. They create a layer between the breasts and your bra and come in handy during the leaky breast episodes to absorb the milk and save your clothes from being spoiled and drenched in the breast milk.
Reusable Breast Pads Vs. Disposable Breast Pads
You must wear breast pads for a few months while on your nursing journey. While you establish the supply and latching in the initial months, your let-down reflex is very strong. You will have a leaking breast if you hear any baby cry or when it is time for your baby to feed. Even while your baby is feeding from one breast, you will experience a leak in the other breast. Thus, choosing the right kind of breast pads is crucial. You will end up changing at least 4 – 5 breast pads in a day. If you use breast pads even for the first three months, you will need to dispose of at least 450 pairs of breast pads. Disposable breast pads are thin, and just like disposable diapers, use chemicals to convert the milk into gel to avoid leakage.
On the other hand, buying even 5 pairs of reusable, washable breast pads will last for months. This is because reusable breast pads are made of cloth and thus are a more sustainable and earth-friendly option. In addition, they do not use chemicals or harmful material that can cause infection or rashes.
Why You Shouldn’t Breastfeed Without Breast Pads!
Breast pads are meant to give you comfort and protection while breastfeeding. Fundamentally, they are as crucial as diapers or menstruation products are. Unfortunately, many mothers decide not to use breast pads at all, which is OK, but that might lead to a few issues and discomfort. Here are a few reasons why breast pads are a must for all new mothers:
- If you are traveling or out of home for any work, as soon as your breasts start to fill, they will feel heavier and start leaking. This can cause stains on your dress and discomfort you. Thus carrying a few pairs of clean reusable breast pads in your handbag is always a good choice.
- Constant dampness in your breasts can lead to redness, irritation, and rashes on your breasts. Breast pads can protect you from such inconvenient skin troubles.
- Many new mothers experience changes in the shape of their breasts post delivery. This change can lower their confidence and self-image. Breast pads help absorption and give a shape and definition to the breasts. Breast pads can help in boosting the self-confidence of a new mother.
- While breastfeeding, nipples can feel sore and painful. Later, rubbing against the bra, the soreness worsens and results in pain. Breast pads help give soft cushioning between the breasts and the bra. Thus, they also help in soothing the soreness in the breasts.
Tips About Using Breast Pads
Although breast pads are an effortless accessory, here are some tips that will make the breastfeeding journey a bit easier for you.
- Change the breast pads at least every 3 – 4 hours. This is an excellent hygiene practice, even if the pad is completely soaked. In addition, this practice will save you from unwanted rashes and infections.
- Even if you are not washing the breast pads right away, rinse them well before tossing them into the laundry basket to be cleaned later. Removing the milk from the pads will help avoid stains and odour. The rinsing will also help eliminate bacterial build up in the pad.
- Wash the pads with your hands or machine and wash them like any other garment. Use mild detergent to avoid damage to the pads.
- Dry them in the sun. Sunlight helps eliminate bacteria from the fabric and keeps it hygienic.
- Always carry a few extra pairs in your travel bag or handbag whenever you are out of the home to avoid any accidental leaks.
To sum up, reusable breast pads are a boon for a breastfeeding mother, her breasts, and even for the environment. They help protect your breasts from infections and your clothes from milk stains. So, choose wisely, and have a happy breastfeeding journey!
