Breastfeeding is not as easy and straightforward as 'nipple plus baby.' It can make so many emotional reactions and unexpected biological twists, leaving several new moms blindsided. Here are some shocking and strange things which can happen when a mom is breastfeeding.
Although for many moms breastfeeding feels entirely natural, particularly when the hungry baby has come, being able to generate milk joined with drippy nipples does sometimes lead to weird and awkward moments. Here are strange and funny moments which can occur whenever breastfeeding.
Breasts undergo involution. When the breasts involved in producing milk are no longer needed, they shrink back to their pre-pregnancy size and shape. The process is called involution. During this process, the cells in the mammary glands which produce milk decline and self-absorb as they are not needed anymore.
The breast can spray milk during sex. Milk letdown happens when an infant starts to latch on. However, it can also happen during sex. Oxytocin is the hormone responsible for letting down the milk from the breasts. Though some married couples feel thrilled and excited when this occurs, others feel awkward at all. To avoid this occurrence, Dr. Hilda Y. Hutcherson, MD, OBGYN (Obstetrics & Gynecology) suggested women wear a bra or breastfeed a child before having sex.
Contractions are not yet over. Known as afterpains or afterbirth pains, the cramps are triggered by contractions of the uterus as it goes back to its pre-pregnancy location and size after the baby has been delivered. As per Medela, this can be mild usually for first-time mothers, but for moms who have given birth for several times, this can be more intense.
The breast can get so hard and big. Breasts may become swollen and firm during breastfeeding. This is because the mom produces more milk than the baby uses. Breast engorgement means the breast are excruciatingly overloaded of milk. The Fox News Health has learned that breast engorgement is normal during the first few days after giving birth or when the mom has not entirely emptied them.
Breastfeeding after breast surgery is possible. The latest study presented in the conference of International Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery discovered that 94 percent of newborns conceived by moms who had breast surgery procedure were all able to breastfeed. Experts said breastfeeding is entirely possible even after breast surgery procedures.
As ideal as nursing is, it presents few challenges and awkward moments. However, just like other childbirth or pregnancy symptoms, it's temporary, and the woman's body is doing all it has to do just to sustain her and the baby.
