How to Increase Breast Milk
As a new mother, one of the most important things you can do for your baby is to ensure that they have a steady supply of breast milk. However, many new mothers may doubt whether they have an adequate breast milk supply. Here are some tips to help increase your breast milk supply and ensure that your baby is getting the best nutrition possible.
Stay Confident and Optimistic
It’s common to have a low milk supply in the beginning after giving birth. It typically takes 3-6 days to establish a milk supply. Colostrum, the special milk produced in the first 2-3 days after delivery, is produced in small amounts (about 40-50 ml on the first day) but is all that your infant needs at this time.
Be sure to feed your baby every two hours in the initial days. Remember, breast milk production increases if your baby sucks more, so the more you feed in the beginning, the better.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking lots of water is essential for increasing your breast milk supply. In many places, caretakers restrict lactating mothers from drinking water, which is bad practice. Not only does it decrease breast milk supply, but it also increases the chances of urinary tract infections and fatigue.
Breast milk contains 80% water, so drinking water will increase breast milk and reduce the chances of dehydration.
Eat a Balanced Diet
Eating a diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals is crucial for increasing your breast milk supply. Eating leafy green vegetables such as moringa leaves, fenugreek, and cumin can help increase the milk supply. Additionally, almonds, milk, eggs, and pulses such as green gram are also beneficial.
Get Adequate Rest
Taking adequate rest will help you have more energy and relax your mind. Get help from your family with child care and try to sleep whenever possible.
Check for Nipple Issues
Proper latching is important for breast milk supply. If you have problems like inverted nipples, breastfeeding will be more difficult. Similarly, if your baby has issues like tongue tie, feeding will also be difficult. Early assessment of these problems can help make your feeding journey easier.
Consider Galactogogues
Galactogogues are substances that can be used to induce, maintain, and increase milk production. Plants with galactogogues include fenugreek, fennel, goat’s rue, and asparagus. Using galactogogues can help increase milk production in many cases.
Avoid Bottle Feeding and Pacifiers
Using bottles and pacifiers can lead to nipple confusion. Hence, avoiding bottle feeding and pacifiers can help with the case.
To ensure that you have enough milk supply, look for the following signs:
- 6 to 8 wet nappies in a 24-hour period, including a few dirty nappies
- Your baby wakes for feeds by themselves and feeds vigorously at the breast
- 8 to 12 breastfeeds in 24 hours
- A soft yellow stool
- Your baby settling and sleeping well after most feeds
- Your baby being back to their birth weight within 2 weeks and gaining at least 150g per week in the first 3 months
If despite all of these measures, your baby refuses to feed, is unable to latch properly, has any nipple issues, or there is no breast milk supply even after 5 days of birth, it’s important to consult a doctor for further guidance.
By following these tips, you can increase your breast milk supply and ensure that your baby is getting the best nutrition possible. As always, it’s important to remember to stay positive and trust the process, as establishing a milk supply takes time and patience.
