Breastfeeding after a C-Section delivery can feel overwhelming at first when you are trying to find the right feeding position. Whether planned or unplanned, you might be experiencing a lot of unique challenges, both physically and emotionally. But with the right support, you can successfully navigate these early days with confidence. In this recent article, we explore the effects of anesthetics and pain medications, as well as helpful tips for breastfeeding after C-section so that you and your baby can experience a smoother bonding time together.
Is Anesthesia Safe for Breastfeeding After a C-Section Delivery?
As a mother with a newborn, you may have concerns regarding how anesthetic medications will affect your breastfeeding routine. During a C-Section you’ll typically receive a regional anesthetic like epidural or spinal anesthesia which gets into the bloodstream in minimal amounts. This makes it safer for you to nurse your baby without side effects. But epidurials, which are a type of regional anesthetic have been reported to cause temporary drowsiness and sleepiness in newborns. Now, I understand what your next thought might be. Are pain medications also safe when nursing your baby? The answer is yes.
Can You Take Pain Medications While Nursing?
Most pain medications are safe to take while breastfeeding. Minimal amounts are released into the bloodstream and this may cause your newborn to feel sleepy, but there are no proven side effects to your baby. However, we recommend you consult with a doctor or lactation consultant to determine the right pain medication to ease your discomfort. A lactation specialist could also help you find the right feeding position that will allow you to breastfeed with comfort without irritating your incision.
How to Feed Comfortably After C-Section
You may feel some pain or tenderness after your C-Section due to your incision so it is beneficial to be aware of some recommended feeding positions that will promote both mutual comfort and a good latch. Although every mother’s situation is unique, the following recommendations could allow you to feed more comfortably after a C-Section.
- Sitting up in bed with your back supported by pillows, headboard, etc.
- Using extra pillows to support your body and protecting your incision by placing one behind you and one over your midsection.
- Laying on your side with your baby cradled horizontally to your chest.
- Using a football hold with a pillow to elevate and support your baby’s head.
Final Thoughts
As beautiful as giving birth is, it can also seem overwhelming. Whether you have brought your child into the world by C-Section or not you may still have similar questions regarding pain medication and how to comfortably nurse in the beginning. Though every mom’s journey is different, we hope you found useful tips for your own path. We thank you for taking the time to read and hope you found this article helpful. Please remember to share it with your friends! You may also be interested in a previous post on Ovulation: 5 Signs of Returning Fertility While Breastfeeding.
Resources
“Breastfeeding after Cesarean (C-Section) Delivery.” HealthyChildren.Org, 2 Nov. 2009, www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/breastfeeding/Pages/Breastfeeding-After-Cesarean-Delivery.aspx.
“Breastfeeding after Cesarean Birth.” La Leche League International, 25 Sep. 2023, llli.org/breastfeeding-info/breastfeeding-cesarean-birth/.
