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Side Effects of Stopping Breastfeeding on the Mom and the Baby
Most mothers enjoy the unique experience of breastfeeding. It comes with its share of hard work, but it is totally worth it. Weaning is a process where the mother gradually shifts the baby from breastfeeding to other sources of food. Often child-led weaning means that the mother continues feeding the baby until the baby no longer desires breast milk. This can extend beyond 24 months and varies from baby to baby. Some mothers choose to wean earlier due to a range of reasons.
Are There Any Side Effects of Stopping Breastfeeding?
Notwithstanding the reason, weaning can present side effects for both the mother and the baby. All mothers experience some discomfort, along with other effects when they stop breastfeeding. The reduced levels of prolactin and oxytocin cause hormonal changes, which can also lead to physical pain. Here, we discuss a few of the effects of quitting breastfeeding.
Effects on the Mother
There are many weaning related side effects on the mother. Discussed below are some of the side-effects of weaning.
1. Mastitis and Clogged Ducts
A plugged duct can cause extreme tenderness in the breast that is fairly localised. If it remains untreated, it can cause mastitis, a breast infection that causes severe pain, fever, and redness. The breast becomes tender and warm to the touch. Mastitis can be treated by using warming pads, expressing the milk, and a dose of antibiotics.
2. Fullness of the Breasts
Weaning can be the cause of a feeling of fullness of the breasts. Breasts become painful and heavy because of the collection of milk. Expressing milk can reduce this feeling of fullness.
3. Physical Illness
Some problems that appear after stopping breastfeeding include headaches, nausea, and mood swings. These can be the effect of hormonal changes that are a result of stopping breastfeeding. Sometimes these problems mimic early pregnancy symptoms. Consult your doctor before you decide to wean.
4. Increase in Fertility
The hormones secreted in the body during breastfeeding reduce the chances of ovulation; these hormones change when the mother stops breastfeeding. The mother may have her period within six weeks of weaning, meaning that ovulation has begun once again.
5. Depression Post-Weaning
Weaning effects on mothers include mild to severe depression. This is associated with hormonal changes in the body when the infant stops suckling, or milk is no longer being expressed. Prolactin, the hormone responsible for lactation, can also create a feeling of calmness and joy for the mother. With the reduction in prolactin levels, the mother may begin feeling sad, and she may associate this sadness with the end of the bond between her and her baby. Not every mother experiences depression, however, you must seek help from a medical practitioner if you feel depressed.
6. Extreme Fatigue and Tiredness
The progesterone and estrogen levels in the mother’s body try to rebalance after weaning, and this causes extreme tiredness and fatigue. Discontinuing breastfeeding may not reverse normal sleeping patterns, inducing further fatigue in mothers.
7. The Feeling of Shame About Eating
When nursing, mothers are advised to consume sufficient calories to sustain breastfeeding. Women usually eat a lot while feeding without gaining weight. When a mother decides to wean, she may find it challenging to cut down the food intake as it is habitual. It may make some mothers feel guilty about eating more during mealtime. Depression caused by hormonal changes makes this feeling more pronounced for some mothers.
8. Issues of Attachment with the Infant
Reduced oxytocin levels, and subsequently, bonding makes some mothers feel a slight estrangement from their children. The mother may also feel less proficient at soothing the child without breastfeeding. Finding other ways to bond, like playing together, cuddling during sleep time, etc. can help the mother and the baby bond better.
9. Palpitations and Anxiety
Anxiety may surface in plenty of ways, such as the mom being too snappy, worrying and overthinking, dreading the little things that shouldn’t matter, and so on. This feeling of anxiety can be accompanied by palpitations.
10. Insomnia
Some mothers find it hard to get a good night’s sleep even though feeding is no longer required through the night.
11. Skin Changes
Weaning an infant can bring in a lot of changes in the skin due to a surge in hormones. Dryness, acne, stretch marks, and other breakouts are common when breastfeeding is stopped.
12. Increased Stress for the Mother
The inability to comfort the baby or the anxiety, sore breasts, and headaches may increase levels of stress in some mothers.
Effects on the Baby
Babies, too, can face some problems when breastfeeding is stopped. Here is what happens with the infants:
The risk of infection increases as breast milk contains antibodies that fight off infections, which the baby is no longer consuming.
The nutritional advantage of breast milk is lost, and dependency on external nutrition increases. This may be a problem if the baby doesn’t take to formula or solid food easily.
Tips to Stop Breastfeeding
Instead of stopping breastfeeding suddenly, mothers should gradually stop breastfeeding by reducing the number of breastfeeding sessions over a few weeks.
Another useful tip is to shorten the length of each breastfeeding session. For instance, if your baby is used to breastfeeding for fifteen minutes, try reducing the feeding time to ten minutes.
Mothers can also combine breastfeeding with formula milk by replacing one of the baby’s breastfeeding session with a bottle of formula milk.
Speaking to a lactation consultant before weaning your infant will aid in fighting the effects of weaning. Ice packs, warming pads, sage tea, and a good bra will go a long way in the prevention of engorgement and mastitis. Whatever the reason for weaning, listen to your body and do not feel pressured by unsolicited advice. As the mother of the infant, you should be free to decide what is best for you and your baby.
Resources & References: Medical News Today, Babycentre
Also Read: Tips to Stop Breast Milk Production Read more
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A Guide to Fertility: Identifying the Best Time to Conceive
If you are planning to get pregnant, it’s important that you understand the basics of fertility. Knowing the right time of ovulation and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help you conceive easily.
What is Fertility?
Fertility is the natural capability of an individual to produce a baby. The process of conception is not an easy one. A woman has to go through a number of stages in order to conceive. If you are planning to have a baby, you must understand the basics of fertility to conceive without any hassles.
Fertile Period
Know the Best Days
For eggs and sperms to work efficiently to produce an offspring, the reproductive organs in both the man and woman must be healthy and working at optimum levels. You should understand your menstrual cycle and know the appropriate time you should try to conceive a baby. Your period begins on day 1 and lasts up to three to five days. On day 7, certain hormones cause eggs in the ovaries to ripen. By day 11, the lining of the uterus thickens. Between the 13th and 20th day, a mature egg is released from the ovary. This is your fertile period and the right time to conceive a baby. When the eggs mature, they can be fertilised for up to 12-24 hours after they are released from the ovary. Similarly, sperms can stay alive in a woman’s body 12-48 hours after ejaculation. Trying to conceive a baby around this time increases your chances of pregnancy. The basal body temperature (BBT) of your body goes up during ovulation and this is the best time to try for a baby.
Fertility Problems
There are a lot of reasons that can cause problems with conceiving:
For men, it could be a low sperm count or poor quality of sperm.
In case of women, fertility reduces with age. The chances of getting pregnant during 40s are much less than they are in 30's.
For women, fertility problems can also be linked with irregular ovulation and endometriosis among other conditions, which can affect a woman’s ability to conceive.
In case you are a heavy smoker, over or underweight, it is likely to affect your chances of getting pregnant.
If the fallopian tubes of a woman are damaged or blocked it will hinder the easy transfer of eggs and sperm.
In case the sperm does not fuse with the egg or if the fertilised egg is unable to attach itself to the uterus, the endometrial lining breaks down and your period begins.
Fertility Tests for Women
Go for a sperm test to check for any kind of abnormalities in sperm.
Get your urine test done for detection of Chlamydia. This can also affect the functioning of sperms and male fertility.
With just 2-4 fertile days in a woman’s menstrual cycle, the fertile window for conceiving a baby is small. With proper health precautions and planning, you can make the most out of it. Read more
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Is Vomiting During Labour Helpful?
The feeling of vomiting and nausea, also known as morning sickness, is fairly common during pregnancy, particularly during the first trimester. However, sometimes a pregnant woman may experience similar symptoms when she goes into labour. Vomiting during labour is not only unpleasant, but can also cause serious complications for both the mom and the baby. Nausea side-tracks the mom, making it tough for her to concentrate on supporting her body through the labour process. It can also dehydrate and drain her much-needed energy which may slow down labour. Some doctors believe that vomiting when in labour can be a sign of transition, which means things are progressing well and the mother is nearing the finishing line. Throwing up through labour can help speed dilation and even cause a pregnant woman’s water to break.
What are the Causes of Nausea and Vomiting During Labour?
Nausea and vomiting may ensue during contractions. The feelings can intensify with the progression of labour. Some of the causes of nausea and vomiting in labour include:
1. Limited Food Intake
Pregnant women are likely to feel hungry and thirsty during the initial stages of labour. It is essential to eat during early labour as the expectant mom has to use all the energy she gets to go through labour. Also, restricting food intake can trigger ketosis. The body may start to burn fat reserves to fuel itself, increasing acidity and causing nausea.
2. Dehydration
Dehydration during labour can become a major cause for prompting vomiting at the time of delivery. When the body lacks enough fluids, it can be a source of nausea. At times, insufficient body fluids create excessive pressure resulting in vomiting, expelling along with blood and bile pigments.
3. Medication
Certain painkillers administered during labour can become a reason for vomiting. The use of pain medicines like an epidural during delivery process can increase the chances of women developing such sensations. A woman in labour under the influence of medicine may not be able to control her swallowing and breathing well which can lead to vomiting episodes.
4. Certain Foods
Sometimes, specific foods or drinks can bring about nausea during early labour. Some women may get adversely affected by foods like peanut butter or beverages like juice.
How to Stop Throwing Up During Labor?
Some ways to avoid vomiting during labour are:
1. Remain Hydrated
During labour, it is vital to maintain adequate water intake or perhaps increase it. Be sure to drink at least 8 ounces of water every hour when in labour. You can also chew on ice chips or go for electrolyte cubes to settle your tummy and prevent vomiting.
2. Eat Bland Food
Eating bland food or diet which is easier to digest may be your best bet. Foods like fresh fruit, rice, multigrain crackers, clear-based broths, yoghurt, bland multigrain cereals may provide enough energy without straining the stomach.
3. Essential Oils
Essential oils like lemon, lavender, peppermint can work well to stop vomiting at the time of labour. Sniffing on the oils may ease the sensation of vomiting. You can pour a few drops on a cotton ball or inhale right from the bottle itself.
4. Alcohol Prep Wipes
Taking in a lungful of alcohol prep wipes can contribute to reducing the feeling of vomiting. Just grab one and sniff it when you start to feel uneasy.
5. Ginger Tincture
Ginger is known for its beneficial effect in controlling vomiting. You can use ginger tincture which may be an easy, effective and portable way to avert vomiting. You can add a few drops to your tea, broth, water or take it directly.
6. Hydrotherapy
Some women may find hydrotherapy advantageous when dealing with the sensation of vomiting. Sitting in a tub of water or standing under a shower can bring some relief.
7. Cold Washcloth
Placing a cool piece of cloth on the face or neck can bring some respite from feeling nauseous. You may like to add a drop of essential oil like peppermint for a pleasing, cooling sensation. You can also put a frozen bag or ice cubes at the nape of the neck.
8. Medicines
Occasionally it may be necessary to use safe medications to lessen the symptoms of vomiting while in labour. Antacids like Zantac can prove supportive. Discuss with your doctor regarding your options and course of action.
Vomiting during labour can mirror the strong emotions a woman in labour is possibly experiencing. The probable anxiety or worry may take the form of nausea or vomiting. Try and identify the likely concerns beforehand to have a smooth and safe delivery.
Also Read: Indigestion While Pregnant Read more
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Know Your Kids Better With These 30 Questions
Your child is your soul, and connecting with your soul is one of the greatest joys on this planet! If you've ever wanted to be the ultimate role model as a parent, you start by getting to know your child better. How do you do that? By talking and listening.
Starting a conversation begins by asking questions and paying attention to your child's wants and needs. This is what we'll help you out with.
We'll get into that soon but for now, let's discuss why you'd want to know your little one better.
Why is It Important to Know Your Child Well?
There are several reasons why you should make the effort to get to know your child:
Every child has a different and unique persona.
As a parent, if you frequently don't put in the work and time to nurture a loving and healthy relationship, you'll regret it when your children turn into adults.
Childhood is a delicate phase, and young minds are sensitive by nature. If you ignore your kids and don't show any interest in what they do or think, they remember, and carve in their minds bad childhood imprints of you that they'll remember much later on in life too. We're not saying neglecting or not talking to your child once in a while makes you a bad parent. But it's just thoughtful to ask your young one questions and get to know him better.
Talking and listening are two powerful tools for strengthening bonds. And by asking the right questions, you'll be forming a lifelong relationship and be fostering a sense of friendship too. In this process, you also become a source of wisdom, guidance, and open-mindedness.
30 Questions to Ask to Get to Know Your Child Better
Here are 30 questions to ask your kids that will let you get to know them better.
1. How did your day go? Tell me about it.
2. What are your favourite TV Shows or comic books? What do you like about them?
3. Are there any rules in the house you are not fond of? What do you not like about them and what changes would you prefer?
4. Tell me about your favourite role models and what you admire about them.
5. I want to know what it's like to live in your age. What's the hardest part of living as a teenager or a kid?
6. If you could become a superhero for one day, who would you be and why?
7. How would you save the world if a meteor was going to crash and end the world tomorrow?
8. What is the best and worst feeling you've ever experienced? Describe those moments.
9. What skills would you want to pick up or what are you most passionate about?
10. Name three things you are proud of about yourself and one thing you did which made others around you happy.
11. Talk about a thing you were afraid to admit before but want to tell me now.
12. What are your biggest and smallest secrets?
13. What do you want to be when you grow up and what do you definitely not want to be?
14. What are your favourite foods and hobbies?
15. What can mom and dad do to be better parents?
16. What do you like about us and what do you dislike?
17. Which place would you like to visit when you grow up or very soon?
18. What was your worst nightmare?
19. What is your biggest dream?
20. If you could be the President of the country, what reforms would you introduce or changes would you make?
21. If you had the power to change the world in a week, what would you do?
22. Are you happy with your life?
23. What do you not like about school or college?
24. Who is your favourite teacher?
25. What's your favourite class?
26. What name would you pick if you had to give yourself a new name?
27. What do you think is the purpose of our lives?
28. Which is your favourite planet in the Solar System?
29. What are your favourite things to do when spending time alone?
30. Would you like to spend the weekend with me and go out for a movie or to the amusement park?
Want your kids to talk to you? Start by talking to them and getting to know them better. It's really that simple.
The key takeaway of this post is to remember that your child is a person, just like you. It doesn't matter how old or young he is; as long as you ask him these questions, he'll appreciate the gesture and know that you care about him. Feel free to ask about things which matter to him and talk about his wants and needs, both emotionally and mentally. By making an effort to connect with him on a deeper level through talking and mindful listening, you'll not only be a parent but be someone who is approachable to your kid when he is seeking advice.
Also Read: Ways to Understand your Child Better Read more
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Dr Priyanka Kalra has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
2 hours ago
Q. #asktheexpert Hello
I am 8 months pregnant and have liver infection due to which I have lot of itching. Please advice what food should I eat or not and what else can I do to reduce the counts.
Dr Priyanka Kalra
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
32 mins ago
A. avoid high protein. do ultrasound n necessary tests after consulting a specialist. without proper check up we can't advise or help you.. Avoid shirt cuts when it comes to health if mother n baby. ok.
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 5 months
1 hour ago
Q. #asktheexpert
I have 4 months pregnant. I feel abdominal pain
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
1 hour ago
A. please see the doctor there is need for examination. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
1 hour ago
Q. #asktheexpert what is the best teether for 4 month baby girl ?
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
1 hour ago
A. no it is not advisable to use teether t pacifiers if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
shilpi Bhandari has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
1 hour ago
Q. #asktheexpert how is Cetaphil for new born baby
shilpi Bhandari
Mom of 2 children
1 hour ago
A. Look for products labeled "hypoallergenic" and "fragrance-free" for sensitive skin. Use a gentle diaper cream with zinc oxide, like Cetaphil Baby Diaper Cream. Try a soothing moisturizer like Cetaphil Baby Eczema Calming Lotion. Bathe your newborn 2-3 times a week with lukewarm water.
Apply natural oils like coconut oil or almond oil to moisturize dry skin.Yes, use a lightweight, fragrance-free moisturizer for their delicate face Gentle cleansing with warm water or a mild baby soap can help. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen designed for babies, like Cetaphil Baby Daily Lotion with Sunscreen.
9. Keep their skin hydrated with a gentle moisturizer like Cetaphil Baby Daily Lotion.
10. Avoid harsh chemicals like sulfates and
Rashmi has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 3 months
1 hour ago
Q. hi Myself suguna,I am 6 month pregnant and I am taking insulin for sugar but still my sugar level is not reduced and I am increasing my dosage level to keep on like 22-14 will it be affecting the baby
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 8 m old girl
54 mins ago
A. In general case discharge and spotting or any kind of a thing is not considered good during that time so if it is happening regularly then consult your doctor but if only happened one time then it would not be a problem
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
1 hour ago
Q. Good morning
My colour doppler should s two rounda of cord around the neck, what would u suggest in this regard?
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
27 mins ago
A. wait you can repeat the scan before term and take proper decision. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
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