Most of the new moms are worried about making enough breast milk for their baby. While this is a common worry, there are only a small number of mothers who aren’t able to make enough breast milk. But, most of the moms can maintain a healthy milk supply for their babies.
How long it’ll take to boost milk supply depends on how low is your supply and what is contributing to the low production. Several factors can lead to low supply of milk that include emotional factors, medical conditions, medications, smoking and alcohol, etc. However, if your breast milk supply is low there are a few things you can do to increase the supply.
1. Breastfeed often
During the early weeks, breastfeeding on demand helps to ensure that babies get enough milk. Your body will supply more milk if you nurse your baby more often.
2. Check on your baby’s latch
Evaluate if your baby is properly positioned and well-latched on to your breasts. A baby who is latched-on correctly gets milk more easily. Without a proper latch it is difficult for the baby to get milk. In case you are not sure how to determine if your baby is latched correctly, talk to your doctor about it.
3. Use both sides to breastfeed
Breastfeeding from both the sides can help to increase the milk supply. Allow your baby to feed on one breast as long as s/he chooses to, once s/he slows down or stops feeding, offer the other breast.
4. Breast compression
Breast compression helps the baby take in more milk while breastfeeding. The purpose is to continue the flow of milk to your baby when s/he is no longer able to drink on its own. This technique is also used to remove milk when you’re using a breast pump.
5. Get enough rest
A good sleep at night or a nap while your baby is sleeping can be helpful. Stress and lack of sleep can have a negative effect on your milk supply. When you get enough rest your body can help boost milk production.
6. Eat well
It’s normal to have a busy day while caring for your newborn, but breastfeeding and making breast milk requires a good amount of energy. So, to build up a healthy milk supply you must consume balanced meals and healthy snacks. A simple and healthy diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains can help you get those extra calories required.
The needs of every baby is different. When your baby is getting enough milk s/he will gain weight as expected. You can consult your doctor or lactation specialist if you’re worried for the milk supply. Always remember that correcting the breast milk supply, if you actually have a low supply, is practical and may require few simple steps like adjusting the feeding technique, bringing in few changes in your daily routine, or altering the medication you might be on.
As long as your baby is well fed and nourished, through breast milk or formula, there shouldn’t be anything you should be worrying about.
“Breastfeeding is nature’s health plan” – Anonymous
Disclaimer: Indian Health Bureau does not claim any responsibility for the information contained in this article. The information may not hold good for everyone. The post is for general awareness only and should not be construed as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Please consult your doctor to know what is good for you.
Comments