Heat and motherhood: breastfeeding tips for summer

Summer brings high temperatures and a greater need to stay hydrated and cool.

For breastfeeding mothers, the summer heat can have an impact on how they experience and manage feeding their baby. That’s why we want to give you some tips for breastfeeding in summer so that it’s a complete success.

How does heat affect breastfeeding?

Summer heat can affect breastfeeding in several ways. One of the most noticeable is increased thirst in breastfeeding mothers, a need that has to be met, because milk production requires proper hydration.

In addition, the heat can make both mother and baby feel more irritable and tired, which could affect the frequency and length of breastfeeds.

Tips for breastfeeding during the summer:

Constant hydration: Drinking enough water throughout the day is essential. Keeping a bottle of water to hand while you breastfeed can help remind you to stay hydrated regularly.

A cool spot: Look for cool, shady places to breastfeed. You can use fans or air conditioning to keep the room comfortable.

Proper rest: The heat can be exhausting, so make sure you get enough rest. If possible, sleep when your baby sleeps to recover your energy.

Massage and compressions: If you feel your baby tires quickly during feeds because of the heat, try gently massaging their back and shoulders or using breast compressions to stimulate milk flow.

If you are breastfeeding, don’t forget to download the Matermap app to find breastfeeding-friendly places on our interactive map.