Nursing a baby is one of the most special relationships a mother can have with her newborn. However, it’s not all fun and games when the new mother is saddled with back pain. It is not uncommon for a woman who is nursing to experience bad back pain if she does not have correct posture while nursing.
Women who nurse their babies will be more prone to nursing and back pain if they suffered from bad back pain during their pregnancy. Luckily, just because women who choose to nurse may experience back pain does not mean that they have to experience back pain.
The best way for nursing mothers to avoid back pain is to always sit in a supportive chair. This is really important for women who are nursing because if they aren’t comfortable, or can’t find a comfortable nursing position, then back pain is more likely to result. If the nursing mother has a chair that is beginning to cause her back pain then it is recommended to place several pillows in the chair, around her sides and back, to make the chair more comfortable and supportive. This will help reduce back pain.
Nursing mothers can also relieve back pain by pulling the baby to her breast rather than leaning over the baby. Many new mothers are unaware of how to breastfeed their baby and this ignorance can result in some serious back pain for mom. Always bringing baby up close and towards the mother’s body will result in the best position for the baby to nurse and reduce back pain for mom.
A nursing pillow is also highly recommended for nursing mothers. Not only does this allow the baby to rest on Mom’s lap in a comfortable way, but it takes the baby’s weight off the mother’s body and arms. Sometimes the mother strains to support the baby and this can lead to back pain as well. A good nursing pillow, like a Boppy, can be very helpful.
A foot rest or ottoman is also highly recommended for moms who want to reduce back pain while nursing. Just having one’s feet propped up takes the pressure off the back and can really help nursing moms.
New mothers need to rest and enjoy the nursing experience without having to worry about a sore back. Following the tips suggested here should be enough to help moms enjoy the experience while protecting their backs.