How to increase milk production
Nurse, nurse and more nurse
The more your baby breastfeeds, the more milk your body produces. Don't
follow a strict schedule. Breastfeed your baby whenever he is hungry and for as
long as he wants to, especially during the first few weeks after you start
feeding, and offer another breast when the first one is empty.
Do not worry
Many new moms think they don't have enough milk when they're actually
fine. As long as your baby is conscious, active, and regularly fills and wets
diapers, your supply is probably sufficient. Keep in mind that it may take
several days for milk to arrive after delivery. During this time, your baby
receives colostrum, which is the thick, nutrient-rich first step of breast
milk.
Try to rest
Lack of sleep really harms milk production. If you can, take a
"breastfeeding vacation." Cut down on external commitments and spend
a few days doing as little as possible other than babysitting, resting, eating,
and breastfeeding. (Of course, the first child is easier than the older
children, who also need your attention.)
Taming Stress
While stress doesn't stop milk production, it can interfere with your
flushing reflex (which releases milk into your milk ducts) and prevent your
baby from getting what she needs. Take care of yourself so that you are the
best for your child. Ask your partner, family or friends to help you with other
things. Tell overnight guests to wait a few weeks before their visit so that
you can breastfeed in peace and get your milk production back on track.
Get help
Look for other new breastfeeding moms and lean on each other. If your
mom, friend, or grandmother breastfed, ask her what helped. If you feel
vulnerable during the establishment of milk production, avoid people who
condemn or do not support your breastfeeding or who prevent you from
breastfeeding.
Avoid beer and other alcoholic drinks
You may have heard the claim that beer stimulates milk production, but
in fact drinking alcohol reduces milk production. For example, one study found
that after drinking one or two glasses of wine, women take longer to excrete
the first drop of milk, and produce less milk overall.
Drink Plenty of Water
If you are dehydrated, you will produce less milk. Baby is easy to
engage with and entertain, so keep a water bottle with you and store bottles
where you usually breastfeed. Also try to eat foods that are high in water
content, such as fruits and vegetables.
Feed yourself, feed the baby
If you are breastfeeding exclusively, to maintain milk production and
maintain your health, you need to consume about 300-500 calories more per day
than you needed to maintain your pre-pregnancy weight. The best diet for a
breastfeeding woman is simply a normal, healthy, balanced diet rich in fruits,
vegetables, and whole grains.
Wait to use the bottles
Bottle feeding is fine for the later period, but for the first few weeks
after you have milk, your baby should suckle all the way, or at least as much
as possible. Your baby will empty your breasts much better than a pump, so you
will produce more milk in response to your baby's signals than a machine.
Herbal help?
Some believe that certain herbs have the effect of increasing milk
production in many women. One of them is fenugreek, the seeds of which are
often used in cooking. Another commonly used supplement is thistle. The study
is not clear if any of these supplements actually increase milk production, but
they are generally considered safe to take while breastfeeding. Avoid fenugreek
during pregnancy as it can cause uterine contractions. Talk to your doctor
before using any herbal supplement.
Foods and breast milk
You don't need to eat certain foods to produce more milk. Just eat a
balanced diet that includes a variety of vegetables, fruits, grains, protein,
and some fat. Some research shows that garlic, onion, and mint change the taste
of breast milk, so your baby can breastfeed more, and you, in turn, produce
more milk. If your child develops gas after eating broccoli, cabbage, or beans,
avoid these foods.
If you are pumping
If you are pumping primarily or solely to feed your baby, most of the
advice in this slideshow applies to you as well. Also, the flow of milk and
milk production is caused by your baby, so try looking at a photo of your baby,
listening to a recording of his voice, or smelling his blanket or bed when you
start pumping.
Breast massage
Breast massage can help increase the volume and fat content of milk.
When your baby "sucks comfortably" (calms down and calms down more
than he drinks), massage the breast closer to the breast, then a little further
to the nipple, and wait for the baby to take a few sips. Then massage another
area of the same breast and wait for new sips. Repeat.
Check your medications
Some medicines may affect breastfeeding. Commonly used medications that can decrease milk production include antihistamines and decongestants, diuretics, estrogen-containing hormonal contraceptives, and some weight loss medications. Check with your doctor about alternatives.