Breast care during pregnancy until just before childbirth

Breast care is very important during pregnancy until breastfeeding. This is because the breast is the only producer of breast milk which is the staple food for newborns, so breast care must be carried out as early as possible.

Breast milk is the most ideal food for babies, with the most complete composition and cannot be matched by man-made formula milk.

Benefits of breast care during pregnancy

Breast care during pregnancy has many benefits, including:

1. Maintain breast hygiene, especially nipple hygiene.
2. Flexes and strengthens the nipple, making it easier for the baby to feed later.
3. Stimulate the milk glands so that milk production is large and smooth.
4. Can detect breast disorders early and make efforts to overcome them.
5. Mentally prepare you for breastfeeding.

What are the consequences if the breasts are not properly cared for since pregnancy?

If pregnant women do not do breast care properly and are just doing care before childbirth or after giving birth, then there is a risk that:

• The milk does not come out. This is what often happens, the new milk comes out after the second day or so.
• The nipple is not protruding so that it is difficult for the baby to suck milk.
• Breast milk production is small, so the baby is not sufficient for consumption
• Infection of the breast, breast swelling or pus.
• Lumps in the breasts, etc.

Breast care at 3 months of gestation

Check your nipples to see if your nipples are flat or deep, by gently massaging the base of the nipple. Normal nipples will stick out.

If the nipple remains flat or goes back into the breast, from 3 months pregnant you need to do regular breast massage so that the nipple can protrude.

The trick is to use two fingers, then the area around the nipple is massaged in the opposite direction towards the base of the breast to the entire breast area. Do this massage twice a day for 6 minutes.

Breast care at 6-9 months of gestation

Breast care at this gestational age is very important for successful breastfeeding. Don't get bored and don't risk doing it. Remember that your future baby will be very grateful for all your efforts in giving him breast milk.

The following are treatments you can do:

1. Wet both palms with coconut oil.
2. Compress the nipple until areola mamae (brown part around the nipple) with coconut oil for 2-3 minutes. The goal is to soften the dirt or crust that sticks to the nipples so that they are easy to clean. Do not clean with alcohol or other irritating substances, as these can cause sore nipples.
3. Hold both nipples, then pull and turn gently inward and outward.
4. Hold the base of the breast with both hands, then massage toward the nipple 30 times a day.
5. Second massage areola mamae until it comes out 1-2 drops of milk.
6. Clean both nipples and their surroundings with a dry, clean towel.
7. Wear a bra that is not tight and is supportive of the breasts. Do not wear bras that are tight or press against your breasts during pregnancy.

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