Breastfeeding is not only beneficial for a baby’s health but also for improving the baby and mother’s attachment. However, this pleasurable and soothing experience can occasionally have negative consequences for your health, such as back pain. Although back pain is common when breastfeeding, it can become worse if you do not take steps to alleviate it. Of course, you cannot quit breastfeeding your newborn because it is the baby’s primary source of nutrients and helps in the development of immunity. So, what’s the best way to deal with back pain while breastfeeding? In this blog, we’ll look at the main causes of back pain and some tips to relieve it.
What Are The Reasons For Back Pain While Breastfeeding?
There can be a variety of things that can cause back pain while breastfeeding. Some of the main reasons of back pain while breastfeeding are as follows:
- Your body may have suffered a lot during pregnancy and labour, and due to this, you might feel pain, particularly in the back. If you have back pain throughout pregnancy, it may persist after birth, and your back may feel sore and hurt while you breastfeed your baby.
- Back pain can also be caused by previous injuries, and breastfeeding can worsen the pain.
- An incorrect feeding position is one of the most common causes of back pain. While breastfeeding your infant, it is critical that you not only place your baby correctly, but also pay attention to your position and provide adequate support for yourself.
- You may have back pain as a result of the increased weight you’re carrying during pregnancy.
- Lifting heavy objects might cause back pain, which can increase while you’re breastfeeding.
Tips To Avoid Back Pain During Breastfeeding
Here are some of the most effective ways to prevent back pain during breastfeeding:
Choose A Right Position
Your position during breastfeeding has a significant impact on back pain management. You can try a variety of breastfeeding positions, ranging from side-lying hold to koala hold, to see if you and your baby are comfortable. You can also switch positions periodically when breastfeeding to give your muscles a break. When feeding, try not to lean too far forward.
Drink Water
You may forget to drink water while caring for your newborn, causing your body to become dehydrated. Dehydration can have a variety of symptoms, including fatigue, exhaustion, and pain. To avoid dehydration, you should drink at least 8 to 10 glasses of water every day.
Use the Right Chair
If you want to breastfeed your child while sitting in a chair, make sure to choose the right one. You should choose a hard chair that allows you to sit upright rather than a cushioned or soft couch. According to experts, a lot of cushioning can induce back pain. So, sit in an upright position on a sturdy chair.
Use Pillows
Even if you’re in a comfortable breastfeeding position, make sure to support your back with some pillows. You can also use pillows and move the baby closer to you to avoid neck stiffness.
Exercise
The mother of a newborn baby only gets spare time while the baby is sleeping. You can use this time to do stretching exercises, particularly those that target your back muscles. Yoga is a great way to keep your body in shape and relieve stress.
Take A Walk
Walking for a short period of time each day can help to strengthen your back muscles. Take a walk in between feeding sessions to recharge your batteries. You can walk from the comfort of your own home if you don’t have time to get out and stroll. However, keeping a walk-in open for half an hour will help to develop your back muscles.
Use Hot Compress
You can also use a heat compress for 15-20 minutes at a time to get relief from upper and lower back pain.
Take Breaks In Between Breastfeeding
Do not sit for long periods of time. Get up and take a short walk around the house or outside in between feedings. This will reduce your stress and help you avoid back pain.
Get A Massage
You may neglect your health and well-being while overlooking your baby’s needs, which can cause back pain. Getting a relaxing massage is an excellent way to relieve contemptible back pain. When you’re pampering yourself, never hesitate to ask for the support of family and friends to look after your kid.