My name is Marilyn Baker, and I have horrible allergies. I’m 42 years old and have been suffering from allergies since I was a child. I have seasonal and environmental allergies. Allergies plague me year round. When I was young, my parents even moved to a dryer area in the hope of helping me. Over the past eight years, I have done extensive research both through doctors and online. I have managed to come up with some combinations that have helped me a great deal. My allergies aren’t gone, but they have become manageable. I do have to have allergy shots, but I also use some natural remedies. I am happy to be able to share my findings with you here on my blog. I hope you can find some of this of value.
Breastfeeding can help you and your baby to get closer and bond while giving them the essential nutrients they need to grow up healthy and strong – but it's not such a warm and fuzzy time for your nipples themselves. But if you're committed to breastfeeding your baby as long as they need it, what are you to do about your tired, cracked, and sore nipples? If you're looking for a few at-home remedies for stressed out nipples that you can use, then here's what you need to know.
Cold Ice
When you twist an ankle, the normal thing to do is to ice it in order to stop any inflammation. The same principle works here – though it's worth noting that the ice will feel a bit colder on your sensitive nipples than it would on your ankle. Take a few ice cubes and wrap them in a thin tea towel to create a cold compress. Hold the towel up to your nipple (or nipples, if both ache) for five to ten minutes, making sure to give your breasts a 5-10 minute break between icings. Not only will the ice calm the inflammation, it will also numb the area, which can bring some much-needed relief.
Warm Water
It sounds too simple to be true, but a warm water compress can help soothe your aching nipples and get you back in tip-top nursing shape in no time. Take a clean washcloth and dip it into some clean water that's as warm as it can be without crossing over the line of being hot to the touch. Wring it out until the washcloth is damp but not dripping, then lift the arm on the side of the affected breast up and behind your head with your elbow bent.
Place the warm compress directly onto your breast, making sure that your nipple is fully covered, and leave it there for around five minutes (or until you notice the washcloth has lost its warmth). Make sure you don't breastfeed for 10 minutes afterwards, and repeat as many times as necessary a day to soothe your nipple.
Hot Oil
Your nipples could be having issues because they're just too dry – in which case, your best bet is to opt for the luxurious sounding (but easy and cheap to do) hot oil massage. Microwave a small amount of oil – no more than a few teaspoons – until it's warm, but not scalding to the touch. Take the bowl of oil out and set it next to you while you relax in a comfortable chair. Dip your fingers in the oil and gently massage it into each nipple, taking care to rub it in thoroughly. Your skin will absorb the oil, making it more flexible and moisturized and thus less likely to crack or break. Talk to a healthcare provider, like Vita Center For Women LLC , for more help.
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