Nurses Talk and Life

Breast Care 101 for Nursing Mothers: "Breast Care Tips

* Get as much rest as possible. Yeah, right. I know, but you've got to try, because if you don't, you'll get even less rest.

* Eat a healthy diet to keep milk production up.

* Feed your baby frequently. Emptying the breasts fully and promotes good breast health.

* Feed your baby in a variety of positions to help empty the breast evenly, which may prevent some of the challenges of breastfeeding.

* Avoid the using soap, which washes away the natural lubricant secreted by the red bumps on the areola.

* Try Lanolin (which doesn't need to be washed off) on the nipples, but avoid other creams or lotions.

* Ice packs on the breasts in between feedings can help to decrease swelling.

* Massage your breasts from the armpit toward the nipple to soften them.

* While there are things you can do to keep breasts healthy, check with your doctor if you suffer any serious conditions."