Our breasts are without a doubt the most important feature during postpartum. I would even argue that breasts play an important role in every woman’s life, whether they have had children or not. Furthermore, let’s not forget that we are animals, mammals in fact. We nourish our offspring by producing milk. Our breasts also play a crucial role in the functioning of the lymphatic system.
Let’s #FreeTheNipple and understand our breasts, one of the most important features for every woman during every reproductive phase.
The anatomy of breasts
The word “breast” refers to the front of the chest and the mammary glands that begin to grow in women during puberty. These glands consist of lobes, glandular structures that produce milk in women. The lobes drain into the duct system and connect the pathways that transport milk to the nipples.
Our breasts are made up of tissue, blood vessels and lymphatic vessels that drain fluid to the lymph nodes. These lymph nodes are located in the armpits and behind the sternum or sternum. Lymph nodes act as guards for the immune system, ready for insects or foreign substances to enter the body. This is most important for the nodes surrounding a woman’s milk supply for the baby.
Did you know that men have breasts too? Yes! Male breast tissue lacks the specialized lobules that females possess because they have different physiological needs.
Benefits of Breastfeeding
The health effects of breastfeeding apply to all women around the world. As reported by the NCBIBreast milk is specifically tailored to the unique nutritional needs of babies. Breast milk supports a baby’s immune system, stimulates a healthy inflammatory response and protects both mother and child against pathogens.
Postpartum is a journey of transitions, as mentioned in our previous blog post. Breastfeeding is an emotional part of this journey that can bring joy, struggle, and even discomfort and challenges. But there are ways to ease that transition and increase your enjoyment of breastfeeding.
First, it is important to fortify breast milk for healthy, nutritious milk flow. Several herbal allies can help you with this step, but diet and lifestyle will always be at the top of the list.
Second, breast care and emotional support can reassure a new mother and help her feel more comfortable while breastfeeding. When I was breastfeeding my babies, I remember frantically moving my toes back and forth because I was in so much discomfort at first! My nipples were cracked, my breasts were huge, and I desperately wanted my baby to get what he needed from me. It is important to remain patient with a new mother as she experiences a wave of emotions and physical problems.
Breastfeeding support
Herbal friends can be helpful in caring for our breasts during this delicate time. Breastfeeding can sometimes be hard on the lymphatic vessels and channels. That is why many midwives include Happy Ducts Free the Flow on their list of recommended birth supplies. This formula is filled with lymphatic-moving herbs to keep your breasts happy.
Picture of Community Roots Midwifery Collective.
If you don’t have problems with clogged milk ducts, but are looking for milk flow support, look no further. Milk Rich Supply Booster herbal extraction formula supports healthy milk supply during breastfeeding. Herbs such as goat’s rue and fenugreek are rich in nutrients and promote healthy milk volume. WishGarden has been producing this trusted formula for over 30 years to help mothers feed their babies.
The same struggle with producing enough milk can also be said about stopping that milk production! Fortunately, our herbal ally can help. Salvia officinalis is traditionally used in the culinary world; However, this herb also has an affinity with the female anatomy. Sage leaf is bitter, sharp and astringent. The herb is suitable for humid conditions and is considered a astringent mucostaticor excess expectorant. It works in the tissues of our body. In addition, sage helps support milk reduction and helps normalize breast tissue and glands when a woman decides to stop breastfeeding.
Every mother’s choice
Every mother has a choice when it comes to breastfeeding and should do what is right for her. Breastfeeding can be a journey beyond their reach for some women, and that’s okay. It is always best to work with your doctor or midwife as they know best what is happening to your body.
Midwives, doulas and lactation consultants are common and very helpful in supporting new mothers these days. They are just an internet search away within your community!
Lauren Ann Nichols-Sheffler attended the Colorado School of Clinical Herbalism and received her certificate in Medical Herbalism. She owns it Blue yarrow herbs also known as Herbal Vice, an herbal product company that practices bioregional herbal medicine by growing plants and sourcing locally. Lauren loves educating and advocating for plant sustainability. She is the purchasing and sourcing manager for WishGarden Herbs.
For educational purposes only. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, or to sell any product.
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