Breastfeeding In Summer
Breastfeeding in Summer
Like everyone, babies need additional hydration when temperatures start to rise. But there’s no need to reach for a bottle of boiled water. Breastmilk is wonderfully adaptive to the changing needs of babies and toddlers and is all that they need to quench thirst, as well as satisfy hunger.
Here are some tips to keep both mother and child comfortable as they breastfeed when the weather warms up.
Be flexible with feeds
Some babies feed very frequently on hot days, often coming to the breast for short feeds every hour or so. Breastmilk gradually becomes creamy and rich as a feed progresses, with the first part of a feed quickly quenching thirst. So, don’t be surprised by these quick top-ups: you are your babys drink bottle, so let her sip frequently! However, some babies are the complete opposite and like to take siestas in the heat of the day, using the cooler hours to catch up on their milk intake. Young babies might need to be woken to feed if they have slept 3-4 hours, but older babies and toddlers can take longer naps – as long as you allow free access to the breast when needed. It is important not to limit breastfeeds, as babies can and do become dehydrated easily. Eight to twelve breastfeeds in 24 hours is typical but this could double when it’s hot!
Stay cool
Snuggling up close with your breastfed baby or toddler can be wonderful – until you both feel hot and sweaty! Then it can feel like the last thing you want to do. Luckily there are things you can do to stay comfortable. If your home isn’t air conditioned, a fan can make things cooler, but avoid directing it right on young babies, as they can chill quickly and become cold. Instead, choose settings which keep the air moving. Find the coolest room in your house and set up your feeding space there – this might could be a tiled area like your bathroom. Many mothers find breastfeeding in a tepid bath with their baby keeps them comfortable and cool. Aim for body temperature water for older babies, slightly warmer for newborns and young babies. If you don’t have someone at home to help you get in and out of the tub, you can safely lay your baby on towels on the floor before you enter or exit the tub, to avoid slips or falls.
Stay hydrated
While breastfed babies should not be given water, their mother needs to meet her own increased thirst on hot days. Keep your water bottle close and sip often. Oxytocin release (the hormonal process which lets-down your milk) can trigger thirst, so don’t be surprised if you feel thirsty as soon as baby starts to feed. If you like to snack while feeding, choose cooling foods like chilled or frozen fruits, smoothies or iced treats! You can even pack a small cooler to keep by your feeding spot and freeze water in your bottles for refreshment during cluster feeding sessions.
Skin to skin – or not!
If you haven’t worked out how great breastfeeding lying down can be, hot weather is a great time to practice! Lying on your side on the bed, with your baby alongside you, can be more comfortable than sitting on a hot, stuffy armchair or couch. A lightly dampened towel or face washer between your bodies or in the crook of your arm can reduce skin contact if you do need to sit up to feed. Dressing yourself and baby in lightweight, natural fabrics can help wick away skin moisture and minimise that sweaty feeling. If you are used to using a feeding pillow, see if you can manage without it now, or lay a cooling towel between you. You might notice your baby’s head becomes hot and sweaty while they feed or sleep – this is quite common, even in the colder months.
Watch those nappies!
If your baby is fully breastfed, the number of wet nappies in 24 hours can be a good indicator of their milk intake and hydration. Generally, 5 heavy disposable nappies or at least 6 cloth nappies is a good sign. If you give your baby some nappy-free time, you might observe their fresh urine. This should be clear and not very yellow or concentrated, which can indicate more frequent breastfeeds are needed. Watch the baby and not the clock – if you think they need a feed, then offer the breast. If you have any concerns about your baby or young child’s hydration, do seek medical advice.
You can breastfeed anywhere and everywhere!
Summer means the pool, the beach, BBQs and public events. In Australia, you can breastfeed your baby in public places: it is a breach of anti-discrimination law to ask you to stop, cover up, move or “be discreet”. Keep in mind that covering your baby with a nursing cover may lead to overheating for both of you. It is against the law to prevent you accessing goods and services because you are breastfeeding – including using swimming pool or other spaces your baby is permitted to be. You can breastfeed in the pool, the sea, on the beach, in parks and pubs … preventing you is not acceptable and could impact on your baby’s hydration. If your breastfed baby or toddler needs to feed, go for it!
Be aware that breastfeeding outdoors in summer can mean skin not usually exposed to the sun might need protection! But keep the sunscreen away from your nipples, as babies don’t seem to like the taste! You might also need to rinse of after a swim, if your baby objects to salty water or chlorine. A broad-brimmed hat is handy to shade you both during a feed or seek shelter under an umbrella or other shade source. Be aware that reflection of the sun off sand or concrete can lead to sunburn, even if you are in the shade. Protect your baby’s skin with long sleeves/pants in light fabrics, as well as sunscreen when age appropriate.
Breastfeeding and summer can be a wonderful combination, allowing you to get out and about with your baby. Enjoy!
