What lactation is, every woman learns in the process of preparing for motherhood. Moreover, they all dream of her, because this is a special mysterious relationship between mother and child, which persists after childbirth. In addition, with its help, antibodies get into the body of the baby, which contributes to the formation of its immunity. More interested in the question of what is lactation?
Lactation is a natural process in the production of breast milk in a woman, which begins immediately after birth under the influence of hormones. It continues until milk is allowed to exit the mammary glands. The unique lactation process is characterized in that milk is produced simultaneously with its consumption, i.e. it is characterized by continuity. It is worth noting that lactation is completely dependent on the action of hormones in the mother's body, and therefore in the process created by nature, unforeseen malfunctions can occur.
The duration of lactation is normally from five to twenty-five months. Between the beginning of the process and the minimum period of its duration, several stages are noted that differ in hypersecretion of breast milk and stabilization of production. If a woman stops breastfeeding, the lactation process stops for two to three weeks. Expressing milk may prolong breastfeeding for a while.
Preparation for the natural process begins from the fourth to fifth month of pregnancy. At this stage, questions about lactation, lactogenesis and lactopoiesis are relevant for a woman. We figured out the first concept, the second term means preparing for an important process, and concludes the interrogative three with knowledge about maintaining lactation in a nursing mother.
Preparation for breastfeeding consists in stimulating the mammary glands with the help of a contrast shower, massage, etc. These simple procedures minimize the possibility of the formation of stretch marks and cracks in the nipples. If they are irregular in shape (retracted or flat), it is recommended to use special pads that pull them out. Calmness and poise are the basis of the normal lactation process. Any, even minor, stress can cause an unpredictable reaction of hormones, and milk production, as already mentioned, is directly dependent on them. You can increase lactation with the help of heavy drinking, but only not in the first two days after birth, otherwise there is a risk of lactostasis (blockage of the milk ducts).
Many mothers believe that the baby does not have enough milk, and begin to feed it with mixtures. As a result, milk production is reduced, and then the question of how to restore lactation becomes especially acute. To maintain and restore this process, it is necessary to apply the baby to the chest as often as possible. Do not neglect night feeds, because it is at this time that the hormone prolactin is produced best. Compliance with the drinking regime plays an important role in stimulating lactation. The use of plant-based teas perfectly regulates and improves the process of milk production. It is necessary to completely exclude nervous overload and stressful situations. Try not to use all kinds of bottles and nipples during the feeding process, do not rush to add artificial mixtures.
Now you know what lactation is, how to maintain and restore this process, which means that all born children will receive the necessary substances for growth and development directly from their mother and will be healthy.