Lanolin - Bringing The Joy Back To Motherhood And Nursing
The importance of breast milk can never be overstated. Sterile, safe, and rich in protective antibodies, breast milk is the perfect nourishment for an infant. The World Health Organisation and all other medical institutes of repute strongly advise that infants be exclusively breastfed for at least the first 6 months. Not only is this known to provide them with the strength and nutrition that they need to survive, but it has also shown a strong correlation to higher intellectual development and a stronger immunity to life-threatening diseases like obesity and diabetes.
Challenges around breastfeeding
Although the benefits of breastfeeding are widely known, it can be a challenging task. While the specific issues faced by women can vary depending on several factors, here are the most common ones.
Sore or cracked nipples – One of the most common complaints by breastfeeding women is regarding the tenderness and soreness of their nipples. This usually occurs when your first start out as the baby is unable to latch out and find the ideal position.
Low or extra supply of milk – Many mothers are concerned regarding the supply of milk, especially when they start out breastfeeding. On the other hand, if the body is generating too much breast milk can also be stressful and discomforting. It can also lead to engorgement or swelling of the breast in severe cases.
Blocked ducts or Mastitis – Blocked or plugged ducts are another common and painful occurrence that is a result of the ducts not getting drained adequately. This blockage can cause inflammation (or a lump), soreness, and tenderness. If this condition occurs accompanied by fever and flu-like symptoms then it can be a case of Mastitis which is actually an infection. In extreme cases, Mastitis can cause an abscess on the breast which may require surgery to drain it.
Fungal infection (like thrush) – Speaking of infections, a fungal infection called thrush is also likely. Caused by the candida fungus, it can lead to cracked, damaged, itchy, or flaky nipples that can be quite painful.
Cracked nipples, fungal infections, blocked ducts, etc. can cause a great deal of pain and discomfort. The situation can worsen when there is a combination of two or more issues being faced simultaneously. It is not uncommon for women to take a break from breastfeeding due to this distress and aggravation, something that can be detrimental to the baby’s health and development, and is strongly advised against.
The benefits of using a breast pump
The breast pump is quite a useful tool that is used to extract milk from the breast and store it conveniently for later use. Manual or advanced automatic breast pumps offer several benefits, such as:
Managing the milk supply – If you’re worried about a low supply of breast milk then pumping and storing milk can ensure your baby is fed whenever it is hungry. On the other hand, if you have a supply that is more than the baby is consuming, then again, you can store the extra milk and use it later.
Protecting you from infections – The chances of mastitis, thrush infections, sore or cracked nipples, and blocked ducts are greatly reduced by the use of a breast pump. You do not need to wait for the baby to feed to drain your ducts but can do so anytime your breast feels full without any wastage of precious nutrients.
Allowing convenient feeding schedules – A breast pump saves you time and allows you to create a feeding/pumping schedule to fit your other chores and tasks. Moreover, it allows you to take much-needed breaks to rejuvenate your body and mind.
Sharing feeding duties – In case you have a medical condition or are still recovering from childbirth, the milk extracted through a breast pump can be used by any caregiver to feed the baby on time.
How does FISIO®LAN come to a mother's aid?
DTF medical is a French company with over 7 decades of experience and is globally renowned for its breastfeeding products. One of its most popular products is the FISIO®LAN cream which is made from 100% natural medical-grade lanolin.
Lanolin is derived from certain sheep breeds and is a naturally occurring salve that is used in the protection and treatment of distressed, cut, or torn skin. FISIO®LAN can be applied to the nipples after each feeding or pumping session and protects them from dryness, flakiness, and soreness. Being free from any additives, preservatives, or other artificial components, the cream is completely safe for the mother and the baby. This is why, once it is applied, the cream does not need to be removed prior to breastfeeding and ensures that you have the most comfortable bonding session with your baby while successfully nourishing it in the process.