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Umbilical Cord Care: What Every Mom Should Know

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Shade was very concerned about the wound on her newborn’s belly button. This umbilical cord stump just wasn’t healing as fast as it should.

Her friend, Fola, wrongly advised her to pull the stump and clean it with alcohol to speed up healing. A few days later, Fola took this advice, and it backfired terribly!

Her baby started bleeding profusely from the stump site and a hospital visit became crucial.

What’s an umbilical cord stump?

The umbilical cord is the connection between the placenta and the baby. The cord transports nutrients and oxygen through from you to you baby.

At birth, your baby’s umbilical cord is clamped and cut close to your baby’s body. It is a painless procedure that leaves an umbilical stump attached to his/her belly button.

A baby’s umbilical cord stump typically falls off within seven days to two weeks after birth. When this happens there may be some raw skin exposed. This is okay. In the meantime, treat your newborn’s umbilical cord stump with great care.

Wipe baby’s cord with a clean cotton wool after each diaper change expose it to air

Umbilical Cord Stump: The Do’s & Don’ts

What You Can Do?

Taking care of yor baby's umbilical cord stump is easy
Source: GIPHY
  • Keep the umbilical cord stump very clean and dry. Wipe with cotton wool and clean water after each diaper change. Fold your newborn’s diaper away from the stump. This exposes the stump to air and prevents contact with urine.
  • Secondly, the same way you care for a circumcision, give your baby sponge baths. This is when you apply water to the body using a small wash cloth without actual immersion in water. Although, there is no harm in getting the stump wet, sponge baths make it easier to keep the stump dry.
  • Finally, during warm weather, dress your baby in a diaper and loose T-shirt to allow air circulation.

What You Shouldn’t Do?

Don’t put cow dung, latern soot, local herbs potentially unsterile mix on the umbilical cord stump. This can introduce germs and lead to an infection
Source GIPHY
  1. Avoid dressing your baby in tight or full undershirts. This creates a lot of discomfort that slows down the healing process
  2. Furthermore, do not attempt to pull off or cut the umbilical cord stump, even if it seems to be hanging by a thread. Doing this will increase bleeding in the newborn.
  3. We are currently asked not to use alcohol (methylated spirit etc) to clean the umbilical stump. Studies show that this kills bacteria which keeps the cord dry and help it separate. Instead, expose the stump to air which dries out the base.
  4. Don’t put cow dung, latern soot, local herbs potentially unsterile mix on the stump. This can spread germs and lead to an infection.

Signs of Infection of the Umbilical Cord

During the healing process, it is normal to see a little blood near the stump. The tip of the cord stump might bleed a little when it falls off.

However, the obvious signs of infection include:

  • Redness or swelling at the base of the stump (where it meets connects to the baby’s tummy)
  • Continuous bleeding
  • Discharge of yellowish fluid or white pus
  • Foul-smelling discharge
  • Your baby flinching or crying out when the stump is touched (a sign of pain)

As parents, our babies depend on us to keep the umbilical stump clean to prevent infections which could potentially land baby back in the hospital.

Furthermore, attempts to speed up the drying process such as pulling the stump or applying anything that hasn’t been prescribed by your doctor are dangerous and should be avoided. These tips should be provided during your antenatal visit. However, if you missed the class, this article tells you all you need to know.

References
  • Marble, K. (2018). Caring for your newborn’s umbilical cord stump. Accessed on 23rd June, 2020 from https://www.babycenter.com/0_caring-for-your-newborns-umbilical-cord-stump_127.bc
  • American Pregnancy Association. (2020). Umbilical Cord Care. Accessed on 23rd June 2020 from https://americanpregnancy.org/first-year-of-life/umbilical-cord/
  • Mayo Clinic. Umbilical cord care: Do’s and don’ts for parents. Accessed on 23rd June 2020 from https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/in-depth/umbilical-cord/art-20048250

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Preeclampsia

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Melinda was a beautiful, 37 year-old woman who was pregnant with her second baby. After divorcing her first partner, she decided to try IVF with her new partner as she was getting older. Unfortunately, she died in childbirth as a complication of a medical condition called preeclampsia.

So what is preeclampsia, you may ask?

Preeclampsia is a condition seen in pregnant women and it shows the following characteristics:

  • High blood pressure
  • Presence of proteins in the urine
  • Swelling of the legs and hand due to accumulation of fluid in the body.
High blood pressure is one of the symptoms of preeclampsia

Preeclampsia is usually seen at after the 20th week of pregnancy, although it can occur before that.

Some women may also complain of other symptoms like severe headaches, nausea and vomiting, a dramatic weight gain due to increase in body fluid, belly pain and dizziness.

Signs of pre-eclampsia

What are the causes of preeclampsia?

Preeclampsia develops only as a complication of pregnancy. Some studies attribute it to issues with the way the placenta implants to the mother’s womb. There has been no certified reason. However, risk factors include:

Age. If you are quite young (less than 18 years) or older than 35, you have a higher chance of getting it.

Obesity. The risk of preeclampsia is higher if you’re overweight or obese.

Multiple pregnancy. Women carrying more than one baby (twins or more) are at a higher risk of developing preeclampsia.

Interval between pregnancies. If you have less than two years’ interval between your children, or there are are more than 10 years between them, you might be at higher risk.

History of certain conditions. Women with a previous history of diabetes, chronic hypertension are also at higher risk.

New paternity. Like Melinda, each pregnancy with a new partner increases the risk.

First pregnancy. The risk is highest during your first pregnancy.

Race. Black women have been shown to be at higher risk of developing preeclampsia.

History of preeclampsia. If anyone in your family has had pre-eclempsia, there is a chance it might occur again.

Complications

Some complications of preeclampsia include:

  • Fetal growth restriction. Preeclampsia may affect the arteries carrying blood to the placenta. This would lead to a reduction in nutrients reaching the baby and thus, stunted growth of the baby.
  • Preterm birth. Severe preeclampsia is a medical emergency and can lead to preterm. Prematurity can lead to breathing and other problems for your baby.
  • Eclampsia. In severe cases, the woman might progress to eclampsia, which is characterised by seizures
  • Organ damage. Preeclampsia may result in damage to organs like the kidneys, liver, lung, heart, or eyes. It can also cause a stroke or other brain injury. The extent of the damage depends on how severe the preeclampsia.

The earlier it occurs in pregnancy, the greater the risks for mother and child.

Prevention

There is no clear-cut way that has been proven to treat this condition. However, some studies have reported an association between vitamin D deficiency and increased risk of preeclampsia.

Before you become pregnant, it is quite important to be in your best state of health. Also, using your Body Mass Index (BMI), try to attain your optimal weight and make sure other conditions, such as diabetes, are well-managed. Last but not the least, please visit your antenatal clinic as regularly as possible.

References

Kee-Hak Lim; 15/06/2020; https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1476919-overview

WebMD; 15/06/2020; https://www.webmd.com/baby/preeclampsia-eclampsia#1

How Will My Antenatal Visit Go?

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Antenatal care is the attention mothers receive during pregnancy. It ensures you and your baby are in the best state of health. Over the period of pregnancy, the doctor follows up on you and your baby’s health to ensure your pregnancy goes as smoothly as possible.

Attending your antenatal appointments is quite important. Any potential risks to the baby can be identified and prevented or reduced. Antenatal care is important in the prevention of several pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia.

Antenatal clinics serve as good avenues to learn more about the baby’s growth per trimester. This is a chance for the doctors and midwives to educate you on any important changes in your lifestyle you may need to make.

Some hospitals have classes just before the clinics begin. Others have these on special days. Here, you will get information that will prepare you for childbirth, care of your baby such as bathing, diapering, breastfeeding.

What happens during the antenatal clinic?

Your doctor would obtain an account of your medical history and lifestyle from you to determine any risks you may have

The antenatal care you get throughout your pregnancy depends on:

  • your health and any risks you or your baby may have
  • the stage of pregnancy you are at, and
  • any problems you may experience.

The caregiver would :

  • Ask for the date of your last period, to estimate when the baby is due, what trimester you are in and what this means for you and your baby(ies)
  • Find out about your medical history, general health, and how any previous pregnancies were
  • Ask for the ethnic origins of you and your partner to find out whether your baby may be at risk of certain genetic inherited conditions
  • Confirm what (if any) medication you may be taking
  • Ensure you’ve had a recent pap smear (to assess the risk of cervical cancer)
  • Make sure you are in a good state of mental health, and providing support if you have depression or anxiety
  • Check your blood pressure and weight
  • Test your urine
  • Provide advice on a healthy diet
  • Examine your tummy to determine if you have a singleton or multiple pregnancy
  • Estimate the baby’s position and size, and listen to the baby’s heartbeat
  • Advise you on care for your baby after pregnancy

How many antenatal visits will I have?

The frequency of your antenatal visits is determined by the results of your assessments. Pregnancies with possible complications would come with more antenatal visits, for example, if a mother has gestational diabetes or sickle cell disease, the doctor needs to monitor the pregnancy more closely than others.

In most hospitals in Nigeria, they schedule you to have one visit per month until the pregnancy is about 22 weeks. Then one visit every two weeks till about 32 weeks and once a week till birth.

What assessments would I undergo?

Image: Shutterstock

You would have ultrasound pregnancy scans done between 8 to 14 weeks to check for any abnormalities in the baby’s organs. These are repeated based on need.

Also, you would have blood tests to check for your blood group and genotype, HIV, hepatitis B and syphilis, and other infections that can affect your pregnancy or be passed on to your baby. Every visit, your doctor would also examine your pregnancy to check the baby’s heartbeats and movements.

Antenatal visits can seem very stressful and time-consuming. However, it is still in the best interest for you and your baby. To get the best out of your visit, be sure to write down beforehand questions or concerns you have. Always ask questions and make notes of the responses your doctor gives you.

Antenatal care has been shown to improve pregnancy outcomes

Good luck!

References

NHS; 30/6/2020; https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/antenatal-midwife-care-pregnant/

https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/antenatal-care

Why Your Baby Sleeps The Way They Do

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Congratulations, your baby is hale and hearty.

However, you constantly worry about his sleeping pattern; he’s barely awake for three hours in a day and sleeps actively for about 18 hours.

Don’t worry, you are not alone. Many women face this same dilemma at one point or another.  

Let us walk you through what you need to know; we are here for you.

Source: Shutterstock

Babies under the age of one are naturally lighter sleepers compared with adults. They spend most of their sleeping time in active sleep instead of quiet sleep.

When sleeping actively, newborns breathe shallowly and move their arms and legs uncontrollably sometimes. In addition to eye movement under the eyelids.

Nevertheless, it is easy to wake a child from active sleep.  As your baby grows, the total amount of sleep gradually decreases, but the length of nighttime sleep increases.

What Are The Common Sleep Patterns In Babies?

1. Birth to 3 Months

  • Newborns sleep on and off through the hours of both day and night.
  • Their total sleep varies; it ranges between 9 to 18 hours daily.
  • They tend to sleep in short stretches because they need to be fed and changed regularly.
Source: Shutterstock

In Addition,

A newborn has not learnt to sleep normally when it is dark. They usually start to learn this rhythm of sleep when they are about 6 weeks old.

You can help your baby to learn to sleep more at night by exposing them to light and playing with them during the day, and providing a dim and quiet environment to aid sleep at night.

2. Three to Six Months

  • At this age, your baby may have 3 separate daytime naps of up to 2 hours each.
  • Most babies will have 14-15 hours of sleep in total a day, with some sleeping up to 8 hours in the night.
  • The amount of active sleep starts to decline and they begin to enter quiet sleep at the beginning of their sleep cycles.
  • At this stage, babies still wake up at least once at night.
Source: Shutterstock

3. Six to Twelve months

  • From about 6 months old, your baby’s sleep patterns will become more like yours.
  • At this age, babies may sleep an average of about 13 hours in total a day. They tend to sleep the longest period at night, averaging about 11 hours.
  • Your baby will start dropping in their number of daytime naps to about 2. Their naps are usually about 1 to 2 hours on the average.
Source: Unsplash
  • In general, babies may wake up less frequently during the night because they don’t need to be fed as often as before.
  • Most babies will wake once during the night and need settling back to sleep. Some will still wake up more often sometimes.
  • At this age, they may begin to worry about being away from their parent or carer. This increases the time taken for babies to fall asleep and may temporarily increase night wakings.
  • Regular daytime and bedtime routines will help your baby fall and stay asleep as normal as possible

4. After Twelve Months

From 12 months, babies sleep patterns are more similar to yours.

As they approach their first birthday; babies tend to sleep longer, wake up less, nap once or twice during the day and sleep more in the night.

Source: Unsplash

By the time they turn one year old, babies are likely to sleep for 8 to 12 hours at night, waking only once or twice in that time.

Signs of Sleep Readiness in Babies

You can help your baby sleep by recognizing signs that they are tired and ready to call it in.

Your child may show signs of being ready for sleep with the following:

  • Rubbing eyes
  • Yawning
  • Looking away
  • Fussing

In conclusion, babies in their first few months have a different sleep pattern to yours. Understanding their pattern can help you plan your personal routine for the day and plan for their welfare appropriately (meal times, play times etc).

See also: Circumcision in Baby Boys

References
  • Columbia University Irving Medical Center. Infant Sleep; “What are the sleep needs of an infant?” Accessed on 25th June, 2020 from https://www.columbianeurology.org/neurology/staywell/document.php?id=36578
  • Teng, A., et al. (2012). “Infant and toddler sleep in Australia and New Zealand”. Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health,  2012;48:268-73
  • Pregnancybirth&baby.org (2018). Sleep patterns for babies. Healthdirect. Accessed on 25th June, 2020 from https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/sleep-patterns-for-babies

All You Need To Know And Ask At Your 6th Week Postpartum Appointment

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Your postpartum checkup is an ideal opportunity for you to talk to your doctor about any concerns following the birth of your baby.

Source: Shutterstock

Any personal and emotional worries can be discussed at this appointment, from mood swings to the fear of having sex again. This checkup is to determine your physical and emotional status, and that you are adjusting well to motherhood.

What Are The Examinations To Expect?

  • Your Incision or tear

If you had a cut or a tear during a vaginal delivery, the first thing on your doctor’s list would be to check that point. However, most incision or tear problems occur within 10 days of giving birth.

At any point after delivery, any unusual redness, pain, or fluid coming from a tear should be reported to your doctor. If you had a C-section, you would probably have a preliminary incision or cut checked the second week after delivery.

What’s the big deal about caesarian sections?
  • Pelvic Examination

At this point, your doctor wants to make sure your reproductive organs are returning to their pre-pregnancy state.

Your doctor will also check your uterus for signs of infection or tenderness. And since this checkup counts for your annual exam, your doctor will feel your ovaries for growths and perform a test to check for abnormal cervical cells.

Your Breasts Are Important

Your breasts go through so many changes during pregnancy and after childbirth. It is important for your doctor to keep track of what is normal and what isn’t.

At this appointment, the doctor will give your breasts a thorough examination to check for abnormal changes.

Breastfeeding Nigerian woman

Other Examinations:

  • Your General Health

Pregnancy generally affects every body function you can think of, which is why it is so important to get an overall health check.

Much of this exam is just like a regular physical examination where the doctor checks your weight and blood pressure. In addition, he/she may even take your pulse or listen to your chest for your heartbeat.

  • Your bladder

You will be asked if you have problems passing urine. In some cases, you may be asked to present urine samples if you have frequent urination, leaking urine, or a stinging feeling while urinating.

It would interest you to note that this is common after childbirth, so don’t feel embarrassed to mention this to your doctor.

What Questions Do You Need To Ask?

  • Was there any problem with my delivery that I should know about?

While it is likely your doctor or midwife would have gone over this with you at the time of your delivery, if you have any lingering or disturbing questions, now is the time to ask.

 Feeling good about your birth experience is empowering and refreshing.

Some bleeding after childbirth is expected
  • Is my bleeding normal?

By the sixth week, most women just have some light spotting from time to time.

If you are having heavy bleeding or large clots, be sure to let your doctor know.

Is bleeding after childbirth normal?
  • What can I do to stop postpartum pain?

If your postpartum cramps or pain is more than you expected or seems to be getting worse, please talk to your doctor right away.

  • When can I start having sex?

You will most likely get the ‘go-ahead’ to resume having sex at your six-week postpartum visit. Keep in mind that with postpartum hormone shifts, lack of sleep, and a changing/sore body, you may have a decreased sex drive.

  • How important is breastfeeding?

Breast milk is the perfect balance of nutrients for your growing baby, plus it boosts their immune system lowers the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.

Breastfeeding is also great for you as it helps you burn 500 calories per day of breastfeeding, making it easier to lose the baby weight.

Source: Shutterstock
  • What can I do to stop the constipation?

Do not forget to talk to your doctor about how to speed the return of normal bowel and bladder function.

  • How can I ensure birth control?

In this appointment, you should share your contraceptive plan with your doctor so he/she can help tailor birth control measures to suit you effectively.

In the first six weeks, abstinence and/or progesterone-only methods are the best to ensure your milk supply isn’t affected. Be sure to ask about the side effects of these methods if they aren’t mentioned. These effects could range from weight gain to mood changes, to effects on breastfeeding.

9 Things You Should Report Immediately!

Call your doctor!
  1. Nausea and vomiting
  2. Pain or burning during urination
  3. Bleeding that increases or is heavier than a normal menstrual period
  4. Severe pain in your lower abdomen
  5. Pain, swelling or tenderness in your legs
  6. Red streaks on your breasts or painful new lumps
  7. Redness, discharge or pain from abdominal incision that doesn’t subside.
  8. Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
  9. Severe depression

Other questions to ask

  • When can I start exercising again?
  • Do I need to take any vaccines?
  • Why do I feel so exhausted?
  • Will it always be like this?
  • Why am I always so emotional these days?
  • Will I be able to have a vaginal birth after C-section?

In summary, childbirth brings about a lot of changes in a woman’s life. These changes can be physical, emotional, or even mental.

Therefore, it is necessary to take your postpartum appointment with the doctor very important and ask all required questions in this article.

Remember, you are not alone.

References
  • Bjorkman, S. (2020). The questions you must ask at your 6 weeks postpartum checkup. Accessed June 19th, 2020 from https://www.mother.ly/life/the-10-questions-you-must-ask-at-your-6-weeks-postpartum-checkup
  • Waltman, A and Stevens, L. (2019). What to Expect at Your 6-Week Postpartum Exam. Accessed June 19th, 2020 from https://www.parents.com/pregnancy/my-body/postpartum/what-to-expect-at-your-6-week-postpartum-exam/
  • Masters, M. (2020). Your Postpartum Checkups. Accessed June 19th, 2020 from https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/six-week-postpartum-checkup.aspx

Postpartum Bleeding: 5 Things You Should Know

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Postpartum Bleeding: 5 Things You Should Know

It has been nine long months!

Your beautiful body has been through a lot of changes during this emotional period, all to climax at delivery. Noone could have warned you enough about intense labour pains you felt or prepared your emotions adequately for that cesarean section (C-section). Unlike what is portrayed in the movies, your body doesn’t automatically bounce back to normal after delivery. After all that hardwork, it would need some time to recover.

Recovery may take weeks to months after childbirth. You may experience some symptoms as your body attempts to return to its pre-pregnancy state.

One of these symptoms is Postpartum Bleeding, which is bleeding from the vagina after delivery.

If you’re a new mother experiencing this, or a new father wondering why your partner still bleeds and cramps even after your baby is here, this article is for you!

We’ve compiled a list of five things you need to know about postpartum bleeding.

Whether you had a vaginal or C-section delivery, some bleeding is expected after chilbirth
Some bleeding is expected after childbirth
Source: Shutterstock

What Is Postpartum Bleeding?

Vaginal birth and C-section moms experience some level of postpartum bleeding. The blood seen after childbirth is called lochia.

Lochia is actually not just blood, it also contains mucus, white blood cells and pieces of the womb’s lining, all mixed together in a bloody discharge. It looks very similar to your normal menstrual flow. Unlike period flow which typically lasts for 3-5 days, lochia may extend for up to six weeks after delivery.

What To Expect

In the first few days and weeks after delivery, your flow would look very similar to period blood; bright red but slightly heavier. It is also possible for you see pieces of tissue or what look like clots along with the blood.

As the days progress, the blood is expected to turn pink or brown in color. Also, the volume of discharge and size of the clots would begin to decrease. By the second week, the discharge will likely change to a white or yellow color. At this point, the bleeding may become inconsistent and your flow irregular.

After about three to six weeks, the bleeding is expected to stop.

If you delivered your baby through a caesarean section (C-section), your flow would be likely less than what occurs in a vaginal delivery. Regardless, you would probably still see some blood.

There Will Be Some Cramping !

Another thing to expect during your recovery period is postpartum cramping, also known as Afterpains. This usually accompanies postpartum bleeding and eases as the bleeding decreases. Postpartum cramping occurs because your uterus is trying to contract and shrink back to its normal size; thus causing lower abdominal pain that often feels like menstrual cramps.

These pains are most intense during the first two to three days after giving birth; when post partum bleeding is the heaviest, even though it might take about six weeks for your urerus to return back to its pre-pregnancy state.

Source: Canva

For mothers who are breastfeeding, these pains would likely be more intense. When your baby suckles, a hormone called oxytocin is released.

Oxytocin causes your womb to contract. This intensifies the cramps. The cramping is more intense for first-time moms because your uterus has more muscle tone than a woman who has given birth more than once.

How Can You Manage The Bleeding?

At first, regular pads and tampons may not suffice as your flow would probably be heavier than your normal monthly menstrual period. Therefore, you may need to wear a hospital maternity pad to contain the bleeding.

Mums initially need thicker than usual highly absorbent pads after childbirth
Regular pads don’t often do the trick.
Source: Canva

As the weeks pass, and your bleeding slows, you can transition to a regular menstrual pad.

Once the bleeding is light enough, or you are only seeing slight discharge, you can switch to a panty liner.

Experts recommend that tampons and menstrual cups should be avoided during this period so that your vagina can properly heal. Also, take caution to change your pads regularly to prevent infection.

For mothers who experience afterpains, applying a warm heating pad or hot water bottle could bring some much needed relief. Pain relievers like an Ibuprofen or Paracetamol could also be taken with approval of a doctor.

When Should You See Your Doctor?

While it is completely normal to expect bleeding after delivery, care should be taken not to confuse postpartum bleeding with postpartum hemorrhage (excessive bleeding), which could be deadly.

Here are some warning signs that you need to contact your doctor immediately;

  • If your maternity pads constantly get soaked within an hour
  • You notice bright red bleeding that doesn’t lessen after a few days
  • Foul smelling discharge
  • A fever of 38°C or higher
  • Dizziness or faint feelings
  • Irregular and racing heartbeats
  • Large and numerous blood clots (about the size of a tomato)
Large blood clots on your menstrual pad is a bad sign
If you see blood clots the size of a tomato on your pad, contact your doctor immediately
Image: sutterstock

Regardless of how much information you may gather beforehand, having a baby is a major transition phase in your life. You may never be fully prepared for the changes your body and mind would undergo throughout the whole process.

This is entirely normal and you would need sufficient time to adjust. However, if you feel uncomfortable about anything, physically, emotionally or mentally, please reach out to your doctor or another health professional for advice.

We are here to help you.

References
  • Nic Hopkirk 2020, Lochia: Everything You Need to Know About Bleeding After Birth, Goodtoknow, Viewed on 28 May, 2020, <https://www.goodtoknow.co.uk/family/pregnancy/lochia-everything-you-need-to-know-about-bleeding-after-birth-432111>
  • Rebel Wylie 2019, Postpartum Period: What You Need To Know About Bleeding After Birth, BountyParents, Viewed on 28 May, 2020, <https://www.bountyparents.com.au/expert-advice/postpartum-bleeding-period-after-birth/>.
  • Stephanie Watson 2018, Is Postpartum Bleeding Normal, Parenthood, Viewed on 28 May, 2020, <https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/is-postpartum-bleeding-normal>

10 Nigerian Foods That Boost Breast Milk Supply

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Nigerian Foods That Increase Breast Milk Supply

In Nigeria, traditional postpartum care remains an age-long custom. This celebrated activity is commonly called omugwo in Igbo, ojojo omo in Yoruba and wanka’n jegoin Hausa. As expected, mothers place a lot of attention on Nigerian foods that boost breast milk supply. Thankfully, this article contains the list you’ve been searching for to increase breast milk production.

During this highly anticipated period, new mothers(especially first-timers) are usually encouraged to rest as they ease into their new roles as mothers. An important aspect of this role is child nourishment, new mothers are usually put through indigenous methods to improve milk production.

Believe it or not….

Nigerian mothers depend largely on regular suckling by the infant to boost breast milk supply. That is, the more a baby suckles at its mother’s breast, the more milk is produced. It would interest you to know that this is not just a superstition, it is a known scientific fact.

Therefore, the best way to improve breast milk production is to keep on nursing your baby on demand. To achieve this, moms use the power pumping technique. This is 3-4 intermittent pumping sessions for 10 minutes with breaks in between.

However, for some mothers, this is strategy is often insufficient as they often deal with pain while breastfeeding and struggle daily to produce enough milk for their babies.

Nigerian foods that boost breast milk production

If you’re like the typical mom who can’t bear the sound of their lovely baby’s cries of hunger, we’ve got you covered with this list of Nigerian foods that will help you increase the rate at which your breast produces milk.

List of Nigerian Foods That Boost Breast Milk Production

1. Fura de nunu ( Milk and Millet Gruel)

This is a common beverage originating from the Fulani people of West Africa. With Fura de nunu, you have a rich, delicious blend of fermented cow’s milk (nunu) and millet dough (fura).

In addition to refreshing you on a hot afternoon, Fura contains many essential nutrients which improve breast milk production.

Nunu
Hausa Millet porridge for breastfeeding mums

It would interest you to know that Nunu is an excellent source of protein, calcium, phosphorous and vitamins A, C, E and B complex. Fura is also contains essential amino acids, phytochemicals, antioxidants, and micronutrients. If taken regularly, this is a sure way to increase the production of very rich breast milk for your little one.

2. Kunu (A Northern Nigerian Gruel)

Another staple beverage that is quite popular in most parts of Nigeria, especially the north, is Kunu. Commonly made from millet, rice, sorghum, tiger nuts, guinea corn, maize, or a mixture of some or all of these, this locally made drink is just the right thing for you!

Furthermore, Kunu contains lactic acid, carbohydrates, proteins, and fat which are essential for normal body function. This drink would definitely leave you feeling nourished.

In addition, you get more breast milk to nourish your baby.

3. Pap

Popularly known as Akamu, Ogi, Eko or its fancier name, African Corn Porridge, this is a fermented pudding cereal made from millet, maize or sorghum. It is a ready-to-eat food packed with numerous essential nutrients like carbohydrate, B vitamins, folic acid, vitamins A and C, potassium, zinc and others.

Nigerian foods that boost breast milk production - pap
Pap is highly nutritious and helps in boosting breast milk production

Considering its highly nutritious content, it is no wonder why so many of our mothers swear by this meal to help increase breast milk production. Please note that Pap is best taken with milk and sugar to give you a satisfying experience.

4. Moringa

This nutrient packed plant is a great source of vitamins and minerals, nursing mothers would get more out of these than most other vegetables. It is a multi-purpose herbal plant, that is, all parts of this plant can be used as it contains varying amounts of essential amino acids, anitoxidants, carotenoids and many other nutrients.

moringa
Moringa leaves improve breast milk supply

Research has proven that infusing this plant into your meals is an effective means of improving your mother’s milk production. Moringa leaves can be added to soups, salads, or simply taken in juice form.

5. Carrots

Eating carrots is a great way to boost lactation as they contain vitamin A and potassium, both of which help to improve the quality and quantity of breast milk. 

Nigerian foods that boost breast milk production - carrots
Eating carrots are a great way to increase your supply as well as loose weight

As a plus, they’re a great way to lose that stubborn baby fat. They can be snacked on, juiced or eaten raw in the form of salads. Carrots are available everywhere and may just be the boost your mammary glands need.

6. Kaun (Pot-ash/ Keun / Akanwu)

Potash is a general name for potassium-containing compounds. Kaun, a lake- salt, is an ancient Nigerian food additive used in traditional cooking that has been known to add flavour and improve the taste of a dish. It’s a form of potash. Other sources are from palm kernel shells and dried, roasted unripe plantain peels.

Most women do not know that kaun is also helpful when nursing babies. Its high mineral content can serve a great stimulant for lactation. Potash should be taken in moderation in its cooked form. Excessive amounts (more than a teaspoon daily) can cause upset tummy. It can cause uterne contrations and thus must be avoided in pregnancy,

7.Watermelon

Sweet and juicy watermelons are another great addition to this list of lactogenic foods. This fruit is rich in fiber, fructose and a variety of minerals and vitamins. Additionally, its remarkably high water content would keep you hydrated, get your milk flowing and keep your baby full.

Nigerian foods that boost breast milk production - watermelon

You can slice, dice or even blend this it in addition to other fruits to make a delicious smoothie. In addition, watermelons can be grilled.

8. Ofada Rice

Known globally as brown rice, locally grown Ofada /Abakaliki Rice is an effective addition to your diet as a nursing mother because it contains a variety nutrients like minerals, vitamin B and E. It also contains hormonal stimulants that help to improve lactation and increase breast milk production.

Nigerian foods that boost breast milk production - ofada
Ofada (Brown Rice) is an effective addition to your meal to increase breast milk production

If you’re also planning to lose that persistent baby fat, you should definitely switch white rice for a well prepared bowl of ofada rice and sauce.

9.Garlic

Garlic is popular for improving the immune system but do you know that it can also help improve breast milk production? Commonly used as a seasoning or spice in traditional cooking, garlic has a rich supply of enzymes, vitamins and minerals that help improve milk production.

Nigerian foods that boost breast milk production - garlic
Garlic is a natural breast milk booster

But remember to go easy on this one, it’s notorious for causing body odours, especially when taken in large quantities. Therefore, its best to approach this with necessary caution.

10.Water

Breast milk is essentially made up of water. Therefore, staying hydrated is crucial to breast milk production. And what better way to stay hydrated than to drink lots of water? 

Nigerian foods that boost breast milk production - water
Drink up to 2.5l of water daily to boost your milk supply especially after breastfeeding

A minimum of 8 glasses per day is the target! Remember, the goal is not only to increase the quantity of breast milk you produce, but also to improve its quality.

Yeah…we know we said 10 but there’s more……

  • Ewe bombo (awalagbo in Yoruba)
  • Uda and other herbs used to make pepper soup for pregnant women
  • Tiger nuts and dates
  • Ginger ( preferably freshly grated in warm water)
  • Cumin
  • Fenugreek (It’s called “hulba” grown in Northern Nigeria ladies!)

Finally, an overall healthy diet is key, not only to help nourish your newborn, but also to nourish you.



Learn more about foods that increase your breastmilk supply

Getting The Best Out of Your Breastfeeding Journey: The Bras You Need.

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Getting The Best Out of Your Breastfeeding Journey: The Bras You Need.

A good nursing bra...

Pregnant mums will often tell you how tight the band of their regular bras get as pregnancy progresses and their chest expands.

Demo of the Biamo designs nursing bra and pumping bra accessory

It’s like being in bondage, to be honest. Add heartburn to the mix and these make you feel like going without a bra. If you will have to wear a nursing bra 24 hours a day for 6months just to make breastfeeding your infant seamless and hold nursing pads in place you are better off with a comfortable one. A nursing bra should be soft yet supportive making you forget you are wearing a bra at all.

How to get your correct bra measurements

  • First, wear your most supportive regular bra
  • Using the side calibrated in inches and ensuring it is parallel to the floor, take a tape measure and measure the diameter around the area just under the fold of your bust.
  • Whatever figure you get, round off to about the nearest even number. This is your band size. So, if you get 33” use 34”; if you get 29”, use size 32” and so on
  • While still wearing the bra, using the same tape measure, get the diameter of your chest at the fullest part of your bust.
  • Find the difference between this measurement and your band size ie. if you got a measurement of 36 and your band size is 34 , the difference (36-34) is 2. This is a B cup so your measurement would be 34B
Measure Your Band and Cup Size
To Get a Good Bra Fit

You’ll want to look for a bra with no underwires, a smooth silhouette, extra rows of hooks and eyes at the back to accommodate changes in your chest size during pregnancy and breast feeding.

A good pumping bra……..

If you intend to build a stash of milk for storage you don’t have to hold on to your breast pump against your chest throughout your pumping session. You are bound to get tired and shift your hands loosing some of that suction pressure. Get a pumping bra that’s soft, but firm and stretchy enough for you to hold your breast shields firmly in place.

With The Biamo Designs Pumping Bra Accessory You Don’t Have to Hold Your Pump in Place As You Express Breastmilk
This is what the reverse side of the Biamo pumping accessory looks like

Some bras have a figure of 8 opening instead of a slit. This means you can feed your baby through there and need not go through the ceremony of taking off your pumping bra if your little one wakes up and needs to be breastfed while you pump from the other breast.

Biamo designs nursing and pumping bras can be purchased from our online store.

Click To Buy A Biamo Designs Bra

If you are on a budget, you could convert an old sports bra to a pumping bra. Check out a demonstration we did on how to make one.

Learn more about how the right bra can help you during weaning ?

If you are on a budget , making a handsfree bra is easy

6 (Six) Things That Could Be Making Breastfeeding Painful For You

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The beginning of a breastfeeding journey for a new mum can be uncomfortable and slightly painful. Pain is your body’s way of telling you that something isn’t quite right. Common causes of pain during breastfeeding are:⠀

1. Excessively sensitive nipples

Some mothers do have really sensitive nipples in the early stages if pregnancy. However, this tends to reduce over weeks say 3-4weeks, so do worry.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

2. Wrong latching technique

Baby is most likely chomping on your nipple. It will deform your nipple, cause injury, baby won’t be able to drain your breast/ get enough milk and your breastmilk supply may eventually suffer. If you feel pain, disengage from baby, and try to latch again . ⠀⠀⠀⠀

3. Nipple cracks and sores

These are caused by wrong latching. They can also get infected . If you develop cracks always wash your hands before touching your boobs, allow the area to air dry after each feed. Nipple creams provide alot of relief in between breastfeeding sessions . Soft and highly absorbent nursing pads eg.biamo designs, lansinoh and medela keep you dry and protect sore nipples from friction with your clothes/nursing bra. Please do not apply breast milk on OPEN SORES.

This can cause an infection. It’s important you keep draining by expressing your breastmilk from the affected breast to prevent a condition known as mastitis. Mastitis causes pain, swelling and redness on the breasts. Some mums have fever and chills. Hand expression; using the the right sized breast pump; or a nipple shield for direct breastfeeding will go a long way if you develop sores.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

4. Nipple thrush

This is caused by “germs” called fungi. Fungi love moist, warm, sugary environments. Breastfeeding mum’s nipples and baby’s mouth are the perfect breeding grounds for them. Thrush is common in new borns. A mum’s nipples may feel raw, itchy, and look pink . Taking a look in your baby’s mouth may show hard to remove white patches on the inside cheek and roof of the mouth. This will explain why your baby may have become cranky of late as it could cause a bit of discomfort. Baby may also have a diaper rash caused by the same germ. No amount of nipple cream can provide relief here. Changing your nursing pads regularly whenever they are soaked can go a long way. A doctor can prescribe safe antifungals for mummy and baby. Some people ignore this nipple thrush and it till it clears on its own .

5. Nerve pain or vasospasm

Have you ever felt a shooting pain from your breast to your arm pit or before or after nursing? It’s probably from a nerve or blood vessel. This can clear on its own but if it’s unbearable your doctor can write a prescription for pain relief and other safe medication you can take.

6. Medication

Labetalol, a drug used to treat pre eclampsia (high blood pressure in pregnancy) also causes painful spasm of the blood vessels around the nipple.

Soft but highly absorbent nursing pads and nipple cream are must haves for new mums who are breastfeeding

Pain during breastfeeding isn’t necessarily normal and mothers shouldn’t feel compelled to bear it. Listen to your body. There are solutions available

Talk to us today.

YOU ARE A NEW MUM, NOW WHAT ? Tips for surviving the first days after childbirth (Part 1)

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African New Born
Surviving the first few days after childbirth

Having a baby is such a miracle. As mums, we often plan for our pregnancy and delivery but end up having relatively less information on what to expect and how to deal with the changes in our bodies after our babies are born. While every woman’s experience is unique, there are simple solutions that cut across as well as universal warning signs every new mum should pay attention to.

Lochia 

Whether you had a vaginal birth or Caesarean section it is expected that you would have some discharge from your vagina for the first six weeks. This discharge called “lochia” is a mix of blood and tissue being shed from a new mother’s womb, cervix, and vagina as her reproductive system returns to its pre-pregnancy state. It is at first bright red, then transitions from brown to yellow before becoming clear.

It’s normal to notice small clumps of blood mixed with it (known as clots). There are, however, a few warning signs that if noticed, show that you need to get back to the hospital as soon as possible:

-Lochia with a foul odor (a sign of an infection)⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

-Lochia soaking one or more sanitary pads in 1 hour or less ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

-Observing clots of blood larger than in size than a small egg⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

-Experiencing sudden and continuous heavy bleeding ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

-Feeling dizzy with increased bleeding ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

-Severe tummy pain or cramping ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

-Having a temperature above 38 degrees centigrade ( Please check with your baby’s thermometer to get a reading. Using your palm is not a reliable way to check for fever)⠀⠀⠀

Please take the issue of lochia seriously as excessive bleeding and infection after childbirth are one of the leading causes of poor health outcomes and death for new mothers in Nigeria

Pain and Soreness 

Your body has just been through a lot. If you had a vagina birth, the skin around that area has been stretched to the max and you may have sustained had a tear or had to have a small cut (episiotomy). With a Caesarean section you literally just went through major surgery. It’s therefore normal to feel soreness and pain after childbirth. Your health care provider should give you appropriate pain medication to keep you comfortable. On your own part, there are ways of facilitating this pain relief using water at different temperatures. To be continued…..