Hiperlaktasi: Penyebab, Gejala, dan Cara Tepat Mengatasinya
Many breastfeeding mothers have dealt with the issue of hyperlactation. By definition, hyperlactation is a condition where breast milk production is excessive, exceeding the baby's needs. This condition needs to be handled properly because it can cause negative impacts on both mother and baby, such as discomfort, pain, and breastfeeding difficulties. This article provides complete information about the causes, symptoms, and solutions for hyperlactation.
What Is Hyperlactation?
Hyperlactation is a condition where the breasts produce an excessive amount of milk, far more than what the baby needs. This can lead to various problems for both the mother and the little one.
Excessive milk production can cause the breasts to feel full, hard, and painful, and can make it difficult for the baby to nurse effectively. If hyperlactation is not managed properly, it can disrupt the breastfeeding process and affect the health of both mother and baby.
Hormonal & Non-Hormonal Causes of Hyperlactation
Hyperlactation can be caused by various factors, both hormonal and non-hormonal. Hormonally, hyperlactation is usually caused by an imbalance of the hormone prolactin, which plays a role in milk production. Certain medical conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome, can also affect milk production.
Non-hormonally, overstimulation of the breasts through pumping or breastfeeding too frequently can trigger hyperlactation. The use of certain supplements that stimulate milk production can also be a cause. Genetic factors also play an important role, where some mothers naturally have a higher milk production capacity.
Symptoms of Hyperlactation in Mothers and Babies
Symptoms of hyperlactation in mothers include breasts that feel full, swollen, and painful. Milk often leaks spontaneously without stimulation. Mothers may also experience mastitis, an infection of the breast that causes severe pain, fever, and redness.
Symptoms of hyperlactation in babies include difficulty nursing due to a flow of milk that is too fast. The baby might frequently vomit or spit up after nursing, gain weight non-optimally, and experience reflux that causes irritation and discomfort.
What Are the Impacts of Hyperlactation?
If hyperlactation is not managed well, it can lead to various negative impacts. For mothers, hyperlactation can cause significant pain, mastitis, and emotional distress due to breastfeeding stress. For babies, hyperlactation can cause difficulty nursing, weight loss, and digestive problems. Therefore, it is important to address hyperlactation properly so that the breastfeeding process runs smoothly and the health of both mother and baby is maintained.
How to Overcome Hyperlactation Naturally and Medically
There are several ways to overcome hyperlactation, both naturally and medically.
Naturally:
- Breastfeeding Techniques: Block feeding, which is nursing from only one breast per session to reduce milk production. Reducing the frequency of pumping can also help decrease hyperlactation.
- Compresses: Use cold compresses to reduce swelling and warm compresses to facilitate milk flow before nursing.
- Pumping: To reduce excessive milk production, you can also pump both breasts until empty. The expressed milk can be stored as stock in the refrigerator.
- Herbs: Consuming sage and peppermint leaves is known to help reduce milk production.
- Diet: Reducing excessive fluid intake and avoiding foods that stimulate milk production can help control hyperlactation experienced by breastfeeding mothers.
Medically:
- Medication: Pseudoephedrine, bromocriptine, or cabergoline can be used to reduce milk production. However, the use of these medications must be supervised by a doctor.
- Medical Procedures: Duct ligation can be performed if hyperlactation cannot be controlled by other means.
If hyperlactation symptoms do not improve with self-care or if symptoms of a breast infection like mastitis appear, you should consult a doctor immediately. Likewise, if your baby is having difficulty nursing or is not gaining weight properly. Consulting a doctor will help you obtain an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Read also: Effective Tips for Dealing with Cluster Feeding When Baby Won't Stop Nursing
Hyperlactation is a common condition in breastfeeding mothers, but it can be managed well through natural or medical treatment. It is important to know the causes and symptoms of hyperlactation to address it correctly. If symptoms do not improve or complications arise, consult a doctor immediately for further treatment.
During the breastfeeding and complementary feeding period, use baby products that support a smooth and optimal nursing process. Choose superior products like the multifunctional PPSU bottle from Hegen, which can be used easily and efficiently as a feeding bottle and breast milk storage container.
Hegen also has an Electric Breast Pump product with a Kneading Ring feature that resembles cupping massage therapy, helping to gently massage the breasts before nursing, making them more relaxed, reducing pain, and preventing swelling. This feature helps improve blood circulation around the breast area, thereby relieving the swelling and pain that often occur during breastfeeding or pumping.
Lightweight and compact, Hegen's electric breast pump can be taken anywhere so that you can pump comfortably at any time. Quality product support will help you maintain your health and comfort while breastfeeding.
References:
- rs-jih.co.id. Get to Know More About Hyperlactation. https://rs-jih.co.id/rsjih/article-detail/kenali-lebih-jauh-hiperlaktasi/
- www.siloamhospitals.com. Causes of Hyperlactation in Breastfeeding Mothers & How to Overcome It. https://www.siloamhospitals.com/informasi-siloam/artikel/penyebab-hiperlaktasi-pada-ibu-menyusui-dan-cara-mengatasinya
Image Source: Freepik & Hegen
