Every mum experiences a special bond with her baby while breastfeeding. It not only allows her to nourish her baby, but also cuddle and care for her little one in a more intimate way. However, with summer in full swing, and the temperatures reaching an all-time high, this task can feel a bit stifling. Not only does breastfeeding during summer cause overheating and discomfort in mums, but it also makes it difficult for your little one to nurse.
While sitting glued in front of your air conditioner may seem like the best possible option (which indeed is a good idea), there are several other things that you can do to keep yourself and your baby cool while breastfeeding in summer.
7 Tips For Breastfeeding During Summer
Stay Hydrated
Breastfeeding and pumping consumes a lot of energy in general. This makes hydration even more crucial. As a rule of thumb, aim to drink a glass of water before nursing. Also, make sure to keep a water bottle beside you while breastfeeding and keep drinking little by little throughout the day. If plain water bores you, you can consider switching to other hydrating alternatives such as lemon juice, flavoured ice tea, fresh fruits, and veggie juices.
Wear Suitable Clothing
Wearing tight-fitted clothes during summers can make breastfeeding a sticky and messy affair. Instead, opt for light, airy clothes that give easy access to your breast. Pick the most comfortable and oversized clothes from your closet and wear them while nursing your little one. You can also consider buying cotton-based nursing tops and bras that are specially designed for breastfeeding. These bras are made with soft, breathable materials and are extremely comfortable to wear.
Apply Sunscreen Before Going Out
Even during the sweaty weather, you are likely to spend some afternoons in the sun, indulging in fun summer activities. In such cases, make it a point to wear sun protection before stepping out. Use natural and mineral-based sunscreen to ensure maximum protection from the sun.
Do not forget to put baby-friendly sunscreen on your munchkin too. It will keep their skin protected from sunburns. Going out without sun protection can harm your baby’s skin and cause rashes. This can make them fussy and cranky, and nobody wants their baby to be cranky when they are already dealing with the heat.
Use a Bamboo Cover For Your Pillowcase
You will probably rest your back against a pillow while nursing your baby. But you do not want your pillow to become drenched in your sweat, as it makes breastfeeding all the more uncomfortable. To avoid that, you can consider purchasing a bamboo-based pillow cover. Bamboo can help keep sweat away from your skin and allow it to evaporate quickly, allowing your back to be dry.
Keep Yourself Cool
There are a lot of ways to keep your body cool during the summer months. Wear wide-brimmed hats and carry a sunglass while stepping outside. You might also want to consider sipping on iced drinks to cool down the body heat. Another way to keep cool during breastfeeding is by wrapping a wet towel around your stomach to keep you and your baby cool and dry. You can also try dipping a soft towel in cold water and placing it in your baby’s head for some time. You can also take a cold water bath before nursing your baby to avoid overheating and excessive sweating.
Create Extra Space While Feeding
Remember when you loved to hold your baby close to you during breastfeeding and stroke their soft hair and smooth skin? Yeah, that’s something that you might not want to do, especially during those sticky summer afternoons. Try to get a little bit creative and try different feeding positions that create a little space between you and your baby. This will keep both of you comfortable and you won’t have to finish nursing your baby drenched in sweat.
So instead of cradling them against you, try nursing them in a more reclined position on your side. Or, breastfeed with their feet pointed toward your back. This position creates less contact as their body lays along your side, thereby preventing sweat.
Keep Your Baby Cool
It is important to keep your baby cool and fresh during the summer months. Make sure to dress your baby in light clothing, or if possible, keep them without clothes when you are inside your house. Keep your little one’s room cool at all times. Keep the windows and shades closed, and always keep your baby under the fan. You can also put natural and safe baby powder in their armpits, neck, and back. This will help guard them against painful heat rashes and allergies. Also, keep monitoring their body temperature, and consult your paediatrician if you notice that your baby is sweating profusely.
Breastfeeding during the summer months can be challenging. The key is to follow measures that keep both you and your baby cool and comfortable. Wear loose, comfortable clothes, stay hydrated, and make sure to keep the room cool during breastfeeding. If you are nursing outdoors, find a cool spot and cover your baby’s body with a soft cotton cloth to prevent sunburn.
