Navigating surgery as a breastfeeding mother can feel overwhelming. You might have concerns about how anesthesia, pain medications, and recovery will impact your breastfeeding journey.
This guide aims to provide you with clear, research-based information and practical tips to support you through this process.
Remember, you’re not alone—many mothers successfully breastfeed after surgery, and with the right knowledge and support, you can too.
If you want specific advice for your situation, consider booking a virtual consult with one of our consultants. We’d love to help you navigate your situation.
Preparing for Surgery
One of the first steps in ensuring a smooth breastfeeding experience post-surgery is to discuss your breastfeeding plans with your healthcare team.
Inform your doctors and surgeons that you intend to continue breastfeeding. This allows them to help create a breastfeeding-friendly surgical plan, such as scheduling the surgery to minimize breastfeeding disruption and discussing options for milk expression and storage during your hospital stay.
You can also find out if you’ll be able to have your baby in the hospital to nurse right afterward or if you’ll need to pump for awhile instead. Some hospitals will allow you to have your baby with you – even if you are staying overnight.
Anesthesia and Breastfeeding
Understanding the types of anesthesia and their impact on breastfeeding is crucial. Generally, the types of anesthesia used in surgery can be divided into three categories:
1. Local Anesthesia: Numbs a specific body area and has minimal to no impact on breastfeeding.
2. Regional Anesthesia: Includes epidural and spinal anesthesia, which are safe for breastfeeding. These are commonly used during childbirth and pose little risk to the baby.
3. General Anesthesia: Puts you to sleep during surgery. While some medications used can pass into breast milk, the amounts are usually minimal and not harmful to the baby. Most experts agree that it’s safe to resume breastfeeding as soon as you are alert and able to hold your baby. Here is an official statement from the American Society of Anesthesiologist, which concludes with, “Patients should resume breastfeeding as soon as possible after surgery because anesthetic drugs appear in such low levels in breastmilk. It is not recommended that patients “pump and dump.”
Pain Management
Managing pain effectively after surgery is essential, but it’s equally important to choose safe medications while breastfeeding. Here are some pain management options to discuss with your doctor:
1. Safest Pain Medications:
• Acetaminophen (Tylenol): Safe for breastfeeding and commonly used.
• Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin): Another safe option that helps reduce inflammation.
- You can check the Mommy Meds apps for other medications and their safety with breastfeeding. It’s important to monitor your baby for any side effects.
2. Heavier Duty Pain Medications
If the above medications aren’t helping, some strong pain medications may be compatible with breastfeeding. You should talk with your doctor about these. You can check the Mommy Meds apps well to learn about their safety with breastfeeding or call the Infant Risk Hotline. It’s important to monitor your baby for any side effects. Some that may be compatible include:
- Tramadol (L3 – probably compatible)
- Toradol (L2 – probably compatible to compatible)
- Oxycodone (L3 – avoid doses more than 40 mg a day. Infant sedation is possible in larger amounts)
- Fentanyl (L2 – monitor baby if there is a history of sleep apnea, levels in milk are low. Use only under medical supervision)
- Morphine (L3 – sometimes preferred due to poor bioavailability, but it should not be used in high doses for long periods.)
3. Non-Pharmacological Pain Relief:
There are many options for pain relief that don’t involve medications that are safe with breastfeeding. This can
- Ice Packs: Reduce swelling and numb pain.
- Warm Compresses: Soothe muscle aches and improve circulation. I love using a hot water bottle for post-surgical pain.
- Relaxation Techniques: Practices such as deep breathing and meditation can help manage pain. Diaphragmatic breathing can be really helpful for post-surgical shoulder pain.
Recovery Tips for Breastfeeding Moms
Your recovery from surgery is essential for your long-term health and ability to breastfeed. Here are a few things to keep in mind.
1. Prioritize Rest and Hydration:
Rest as much as possible and stay hydrated to aid in recovery and milk production. Drinking a high-quality source of electrolytes is especially important. Here are some of the best electrolyte sources for breastfeeding.
2. Nutritional Support:
Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals to support healing and sustain milk production. Focus on protein, fiber, and fat at each meal to nourish your body and aid in healing. My 28-day Breastfeeding Meal Plan has some great recipes that you might enjoy!
3. Support System:
Lean on your partner, family, and friends for help with household tasks and baby care. Work with a lactation consultant for professional guidance for the duration of your pregnancy. Our team would love to help you!
4. Monitor for Complications:
Look for signs of infection or other complications and seek medical advice if you have any. Complications with your surgery can lead to separation from your baby and/or difficulty with pumping.
Breastfeeding Positioning and Techniques
Finding comfortable positions for breastfeeding post-surgery can make a significant difference:
1. Side-Lying Position:
This position allows you to rest while breastfeeding and can be less painful if you’ve had abdominal surgery. It can be trickier with brand new babies, but it can be a true lifesaver once your baby is 2+ months.
2. Football Hold:
This position keeps the baby away from your surgical site, ideal for mothers who had C-sections. Remember that once your baby starts to get a little longer, it can be tricky to maneuver this one.
3. Pillows and Supports:
Use pillows to support your back, arms, and baby to reduce strain and make feeding sessions more comfortable. I’m not usually a big pillow person, but when it comes to recovering from surgery – do whatever you need to do!
4. Ensuring a Proper Latch:
A good latch is crucial to prevent nipple trauma and ensure efficient milk transfer. If you encounter difficulties, consult a lactation expert.
Managing Breastfeeding Challenges
Breastfeeding after surgery might come with unique challenges, but these can be managed with the right strategies:
1. Coping with Reduced Milk Supply:
- Increase the frequency of nursing or pumping sessions to stimulate production.
- Express any chance you are able
- Consider implementing some kind of power pumping
2. Handling Engorgement or Mastitis:
- Ensure proper drainage of breasts through regular feeding or pumping.
- Apply cold packs to reduce swelling and discomfort.
- Do therapeutic breast massage to help witn preventing mastitis and engorgement.
Breastfeeding after surgery can be challenging, but with the right preparation, support, and knowledge, you can navigate this journey successfully. Remember to prioritize your health, seek help when needed, and take one step at a time. Your determination and love for your baby will guide you through.
For more in-depth guidance and support, consider enrolling in my course, “Fuss-Free First Year,” designed to help you tackle the first year of motherhood with confidence and ease.
More Articles You May Enjoy:
- How to Store Colostrum Before Birth: What You Should Know
- Breastfeeding and Gestational Diabetes: Everything You Need to Know
- How to Relieve Engorged Breasts for Breastfeeding Moms
