Breastfeeding is a beautiful experience for a mother and her baby, but sometimes, mothers may experience difficulty in producing enough breast milk to meet their baby’s needs. This can be a frustrating and stressful situation for a new mother, but there are many ways to increase breast milk supply.
Nurse frequently and on-demand: The more you nurse your baby, the more milk your body will produce. Try to nurse your baby every two to three hours or whenever they show signs of hunger.
Pump after feedings: After breastfeeding, pump for an additional 10-15 minutes to encourage more milk production. This will also help to empty your breasts completely, which will signal your body to produce more milk.
Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is essential for milk production. Aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water per day to keep your body hydrated.
Eat a balanced diet: Eating a balanced diet that includes protein, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables can help to increase milk production. Foods such as oatmeal, fenugreek, and fennel can also help to boost milk supply.
Get enough rest: Rest is essential for milk production. Try to get as much rest as possible, and avoid overexerting yourself.
Reduce stress: Stress can interfere with milk production. Find ways to reduce stress, such as practicing deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga.
Try herbal supplements: Some herbs, such as fenugreek and fennel, can help to increase milk production. Always consult with a healthcare provider before taking any herbal supplements.
Seek support: Breastfeeding can be challenging, and it’s essential to have a support system in place. Join a breastfeeding support group or speak to a lactation consultant for advice and support.
Breast feeding can be hard for many and reducing the pressure mothers put on themselves is an important step in helping. Increasing breast milk supply takes time and patience. By following the tips outlined above and seeking support, you can successfully increase your milk supply and provide your baby with the nourishment they need.
References:
Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine. (2011). ABM clinical protocol #9: use of galactogogues in initiating or augmenting the rate of maternal milk secretion (first revision January 2011). Breastfeeding Medicine, 6(1), 41-49.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2018). Optimizing support for breastfeeding as part of obstetric practice. Retrieved from https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2018/08/optimizing-support-for-breastfeeding-as-part-of-obstetric-practice.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2019). Breastfeeding. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding/index.htm.
