Is it Safe to Use an Infrared Sauna While Breastfeeding?
Using a far-infrared sauna (FIRS) can be safe with precautions. FIRSs provide gentle heat, but caution is advised due to potential impacts on lactation and dehydration risks from sweating.
Research suggests FIRS therapy may enhance milk production by improving circulation and promoting relaxation.
However, specific effects during breastfeeding are not fully understood. To ensure safety, breastfeeding mothers should consult healthcare providers, stay hydrated, and carefully monitor sauna temperatures and durations.
Benefits of Infrared Sauna for Breastfeeding Mother
Increased the Milk production
Using an infrared sauna can potentially increase milk production in breastfeeding mothers. Research has shown that the heat from infrared saunas stimulates blood circulation, which in turn enhances blood flow to the mammary glands.
This improved circulation is beneficial as it supports the let-down reflex (LDR), making milk flow more easily during breastfeeding sessions.
Moreover, the heat generated by the sauna can promote relaxation and reduce stress levels in mothers. This relaxation is crucial because it helps in the release of oxytocin, a hormone essential for milk ejection.
Speed up postpartum recovery
Research from Surabaya underscores the efficacy of herbal steam baths in boosting breast milk production among postpartum mothers.
This traditional Indonesian practice not only reduces postpartum stress and enhances physical fitness but also supports milk production by alleviating fatigue and promoting comfort.
The study, employing a quasi-experimental design, revealed significant improvements in milk production metrics such as increased baby weight and more frequent urination and defecation.
These findings suggest that incorporating sessions in an infrared sauna, similar to herbal steam baths, could potentially expedite postpartum recovery by fostering relaxation and supporting lactation, thus benefiting maternal health.
Helpful for women struggling with milk production
Infrared saunas could offer significant help to women experiencing challenges with milk production. Research on the effects of ceramic far-infrared radiation suggests promising results in enhancing lactation among postpartum women.
A study involving 63 women who faced issues with lactation found that attaching a ceramic disc emitting far-infrared radiation to the breast skin resulted in notable improvements.
About three-quarters of the participants reported increased lactation one month after starting the treatment, with half of them able to continue breastfeeding until weaning.
This indicates that the vasodilating and warming effects of far-infrared radiation from ceramics may provide an effective and convenient remedy for enhancing lactation in breastfeeding mothers.
Are there any risks associated with using an infrared sauna during breastfeeding?
Using an infrared sauna while breastfeeding raises concerns about potential risks to both the mother and infant. Far-infrared saunas (FIRSs), known for their lower temperatures and gentle heat penetration, are generally considered safe and comfortable.
However, caution is advised during lactation due to the potential impact of heat on milk production and composition. Elevated body temperatures can adversely affect lactation, and dehydration is also a concern as FIRS therapy induces sweating to regulate body temperature.
While FIRS therapy has demonstrated benefits for conditions like cardiovascular health and pain relief, its specific effects during breastfeeding are not well-documented.
Therefore, breastfeeding mothers should consult healthcare providers before using FIRSs to ensure safety and minimize potential risks to themselves and their infants.
