During periods of emergency and stress, we are exposed to situations of anxiety that lead to a disruption of life routine, and may, in some cases, result in a disruption in the supply of essential services, in the need to leave the house or to make preparations for a prolonged stay in shelters.
Following are several points that will aid in preserving the breastfeeding process at times of exposure to stress, pressure and anxiety events.
- Breastfeeding is the best way to continue maintaining the baby’s mental and physical health.
- The process of milk production is not impeded by the stress events. At the time of exposure to an event there is only a temporary impact on the milk secretion ability.
- There are known physical sensations that accompany fear, such as dryness in the mouth, accelerated pulse, body tremor, cold palms and feet, etc. These signs ease up after a short while, even if the stress situation continues. The milk secretion reflex operates in a pretty much the same way and may, in times of alarm, temporarily stop the milk secretion, but only for a short time (minutes) it is important to remember that the process of producing and transferring the milk will go on as long as you continue to attach the baby to the breast’ this because the milk-producing system is adaptable, and intended to supply the baby’s needs during stress situations as well.
- During all the stress periods, it is imperative not to stop the flow of the milk. If, nevertheless, you feel that you cannot temporarily nurse your baby, it is important to express the milk from the breast by means of a pump or manually, in a frequency equal to the number of times your baby feeds regularly. Don’t let your breast rest, since letting it rest may cause congestion, breast blockages, breast infections and even ulcers.
- Skin to skin touch helps the baby feel secure and may reduce somewhat the mental distress caused by the exposure to trauma or stress. In addition, the breastfeeding hormones secreted in your body aid in bringing about a more relaxing sensation.
- Mothers that do not eat balanced meals or eat smaller amounts due to the stress and anxiety are still able to breastfeed properly and efficiently.
- In times of stress and anxiety, our immune system may suffer a certain decline of our body resistance; therefore it is very important to continue to nurse in order to enable the baby to have maximum protection from pathogens, also in places with poorer sanitary conditions, such as shelters and crowded spaces.
Principles of a happy breastfeeding
- Make sure the breastfeeding is not painful – efficient gripping principle
- Let the baby such frequently at his demand – supply and demand principle
- Rest assured that you are able to produce enough milk to fully satisfy your baby for at least 6 months - confidence in your body principle
The information was collected, edited and adapted from sources written by
WHO (World Health Organization),
UNICEF and
ILCA.
