Homeopathy & Breastfeeding

There's no denying the benefits of breast milk for your baby.  It is packed with all the nutrients that growing babies need. 
There are multiple benefits for both mum & baby to be gained by breastfeeding. Your baby will have reduced risk of developing: 

• SIDs
• Asthma
• Eczema
• Obesity

There is even evidence to suggest that breastfed babies are smarter! 

And for you, there are also many benefits.  Breastfeeding mums have the following benefits:

• Reduced risk of both breast & ovarian cancer
• Quicker recovery from birth due to the hormones released
• There is a reduced risk of developing: 
  • arthritis
  • heart disease
  • high blood pressure
  • type 2 diabetes

Of course, there is the most important benefit of all;  Baby bonding.  It can be a really satisfying (although tiring) process, knowing that you are providing your baby with the best start in life.  

There is a unique communication between your body and your baby.   At each stage of development, the enzymes in your baby's saliva send messages to the receptors in the breast.  This lets you know what specific nutrition your baby needs at that time.  It's packed full of proteins, good bacteria for your baby's gut, healthy fats and more.   Even if your baby is sick, the composition of your milk will change to ensure that he or she gets all they need. Your milk is full of antibodies to protect him or her from illnesses like cold & flu, stomach bugs etc.  I had covid when breastfeeding my youngest baby.  Everyone in the house was sick, except her, how amazing is that! 

That being said, it's not always an easy process at the start.  Too often we are critical of ourselves and are quick to tell ourselves that 'I can't breastfeed'.  Most women, with the proper support, advice & help can go on to feed their babies successfully.  A supportive partner and family network is really good to have around you.  This means when you are feeling tired or like you can't get the hang of it, they can be on hand to offer encouragement and help.  Remember, you and your baby are learning together, it will take a little practice.  

There are some common obstacles that may come up and homeopathy can be on hand to help you and your baby through it safely and gently.  Homeopathy is perfectly safe for use by nursing mothers and infants.  

Cracked nipples
This is one of the first things you may encounter.  It can vary in severity and intensity from woman to woman, from mildly irritating to excruciating.  These remedies can offer you some relief. 

Graphites - Cracks are itchy; may be oozing a honey-like discharge.
Nitricum acidum - Bleeding and painful cracks.
Phytolacca - Painful, cracked nipples which hurt when the baby nurses. 
Calendula - This cream will help to heal the skin when applied topically once baby has finished nursing.  

Mastitis
This is a really common condition that is caused mainly by milk becoming blocked in the ducts.  

Belladonna - This is usually the first remedy to reach for once you notice the symptoms.  Breast will be hot, red and swollen.  It will be very painful to touch.  There may also be fever or flu-like symptoms accompanying this. 

Calc Carb - Breasts can be hot and swollen but pale in color. There may be production of excess watery milk or deficiency of milk. The milk may also disagree with the child.  Warmth makes the patient feel better.

Phytolacca - One of the most commonly used remedies for mastitis, especially where the pains radiate from the affected area and the breast is hard and lumpy.  The patient may feel heavy with flu like symptoms, or may have a breast abscess threatening.

Pulsatilla - Milk can be watery, suppressed or blocked or flow profusely. The supply may be changeable.  They can cry while nursing the baby. Patient is worse in a warm room and much better in open air. They are also thirst-less.

Low Milk Supply
This is one of the most common reasons for giving up feeding.  We worry that our baby is not getting sufficient milk to grow and so can opt to stop feeding ourselves.  Homeopathy can help to regulate your supply naturally. 

Calc Carb -  Breasts can be hot and swollen but pale in color.  The same can be said here as for the mastitis symptoms: Chilly with a tendency to perspire in fact they can perspire even when cold. Production of excess watery milk or deficiency of milk. The milk may also disagree with the child. Warmth makes the patient feel better.

Lac Caninum - This will address milk flow issues that switch from side to side.  The patient may feel a conflict between nursing and the sexuality of her breasts.

Pulsatilla -  Breast milk can be watery, suppressed or blocked or flow profusely. The patient tends to have symptoms that change often. They also tend to be yielding in nature and easily brought to tears with a warm personality. They can cry while nursing the baby. 

Urtica Urens -  No breast milk is produced at all and there does not seem to be a cause for the problem. Breasts can be swollen with stinging pains like the sting of a bee. The breasts may also itch. Patient can also experience a stinging or itching rash. Cold will aggravate the symptoms. 


If you would like further advice on putting together a breastfeeding homeopathic remedy kit when please get in touch via the link (Say hi!) and I'll be happy to help you. 
If you feel you need support in your breastfeeding journey you can speak to your midwife or health visitor or contact La Leche League. www.lalecheleagueireland.com/groups/belfast/