Postpartum has its own set of complications, whether it is a perineal tear, low milk supply, or emotional challenges like postpartum depression. However, supplements, along with proper care and support, can help address both physical and emotional issues, promoting recovery and supporting breastfeeding. For example, certain supplements can aid in tissue healing after a tear, while others may boost milk production or support mental health, helping mothers navigate this crucial phase with more ease and comfort.
When seeking supplements for perineal healing, it's important to look for ingredients that have specific properties that aid in recovery and comfort. These properties include anti-hemorrhagic (helps stop bleeding), anti-inflammatory (reduces swelling and irritation), anti-microbial (fights infection), and astringent (promotes tissue contraction and healing). Here’s how the listed supplements contribute to perineal healing:
1. Calendula: Known for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and wound-healing properties, calendula can help reduce swelling, prevent infection, and promote tissue repair. It’s often used in creams and ointments to soothe irritated skin and aid in the healing of cuts and tears.
2. Comfrey: Comfrey is famous for its ability to speed up tissue healing due to its allantoin content. It has anti-inflammatory and astringent properties that help reduce swelling and promote skin regeneration, making it a great choice for perineal healing.
3. Shepherd's Purse: This herb is well-known for its anti-hemorrhagic effects, helping to stop bleeding. It also has astringent properties, which help to tighten tissues and reduce inflammation, making it useful in the early stages of recovery from a perineal tear or incision.
4. Stinging Nettle: Rich in vitamins and minerals, stinging nettle is often used for its anti-inflammatory and astringent properties. It helps strengthen and tone tissues, reduces swelling, and aids in overall recovery, making it an excellent choice for postpartum healing.
5. Yarrow: Yarrow is known for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and astringent properties. It can help reduce swelling and pain, prevent infection, and promote tissue healing. It is often used in topical applications for its ability to calm irritation and improve circulation in the affected area.
6. Witch Hazel: Witch hazel has astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a go-to for reducing swelling and soothing skin irritation. It also has mild antimicrobial effects, helping to prevent infection and keep the perineal area clean and comfortable during recovery.
When combined, these herbs can provide a comprehensive approach to perineal healing, addressing multiple aspects of recovery. Whether used in a topical cream, soak, or herbal tea, they can significantly support the healing process and help reduce discomfort in the postpartum period. A sitz bath is a warm, shallow bath that covers the hips and buttocks, commonly used to soothe and promote healing of the perineal area after childbirth, helping reduce pain, swelling, and discomfort. Always consult with a healthcare provider before using any new supplement or remedy, especially during the postpartum period.
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The guidelines recommend breastfeeding for at least 6 months. Your baby should feed at least 8 times a day and have at least 6 wet diapers and 3 bowel movements in a 24-hour period after the first 5 days of breastfeeding. In addition to forming a bonding between the mother and baby, there are many perks to lactating such as reducing postpartum weight, lowering risk for developing type 2 diabetes. Furthermore, long term breastfeeding is associated with reducing risk of certain types of cancers such as breast cancer and ovarian cancer. However, a common reason for discontinuing to lactating is either there is difficulty with breastfeeding or there is not enough breast milk. Here are some herbs that can help stimulate milk production:
1. Blessed Thistle: Known for its ability to promote lactation, blessed thistle can help stimulate milk flow and support overall breast health. It's often used in combination with fenugreek.
2. Fenugreek: One of the most well-known herbs for increasing milk production, fenugreek is often used by nursing mothers to boost milk supply. It works by stimulating sweat glands (makes the sweat smell maple-honey like), which also produce milk.
3. Borago: Borage is rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid that may help increase milk supply. It also helps support overall hormonal balance, which is key to lactation.
4. Goat's Rue: This herb has been used for centuries to increase milk supply. Goat's rue helps stimulate the growth of mammary tissue and can promote milk production in mothers who may have low supply.
5. Chamomile: Chamomile not only has a calming effect that can help reduce stress and anxiety, which can interfere with milk production, but it also supports lactation by relaxing the muscles around the milk ducts, facilitating smoother milk flow.
6. Stinging Nettle: Rich in vitamins and minerals, stinging nettle is often used to support lactation and improve milk quality. It also helps to replenish the body with essential nutrients that may be depleted during breastfeeding.
Did you know there are free resources to get support for breastfeeding!
Chat Live with a Registered Nurse: York Region Breastfeeding support
Breastfeeding clinics: Toronto Clinics
Get breastfeeding advice and referrals 24 hours a day, seven days a week by visiting Health811 online or calling 811
Overall, ensure that you speak with a healthcare professional to get the best medical service you require.
