Are you a breastfeeding momma wondering “Is my baby getting enough milk”? Is your little one struggling to gain weight, but at the breast constantly? One thing is for sure, when we are determined to use our breastmilk to ensure our child has nutritious meals, it can be extremely frustrating when our bodies are not producing an adequate supply. Before switching your baby to formula, use the methods discussed below for the ultimate guide to making more milk for your baby.
First and foremost, it’s essential to seek professional guidance. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your local Board Certified Lactation Consultant once your baby’s pediatrician confirms inadequate feeding. These experts can conduct weighted feeds to assess milk transfer during nursing sessions, providing valuable insights to kickstart your journey towards becoming a milk-making Supermom!
Recognizing Hunger Cues
Understanding your baby’s hunger cues is crucial in increasing milk supply. Crying is usually the last sign that the baby is ready for a feeding. Look for the following signs that baby is hungry:
- Lip Smacking
- Rooting
- Stretching
- Squirming
- Sucking on hands
Responding promptly to these cues encourages your body to produce more milk to meet your baby’s nutritional needs.
Embracing Physical Techniques
In addition to recognizing hunger cues, there are several physical methods to enhance milk supply. Skin-to-skin contact, where you lay your baby directly on your chest, stimulates oxytocin release, promoting milk production. Prioritize rest, relaxation, and hydration to support your overall well-being.
I get it; You’re probably thinking, “How can I rest with so much to do, and my only opportunity is when the baby is asleep?” It’s time to let go, seek assistance, and extend yourself some grace. Your well-being is essential to ensuring a healthy milk supply. While the laundry and dishes may pile up, remember that these first six weeks are vital for establishing a supply that will sustain your baby until you’re ready to wean.
This might sound crazy after reading the last paragraph, but it’s an effective strategy: if your baby is sleeping through the night, resist the temptation to enjoy uninterrupted sleep. Instead, set an alarm and pump during the night. Consider setting up a pump station by your bedside and pump overnight to maintain consistent milk production.
Here are a few additional techniques to support an increase in milk supply:
- Utilize heat therapy on your breasts while nursing and pumping to encourage relaxation.
- Increase the frequency of nursing and pumping sessions, aiming to match your baby’s feeding schedule.
- Practice the switch nursing technique, alternating your baby between breasts multiple times during feedings. Read a previous blog describing how to switch nurse here.
- Incorporate pumping sessions between feeds to stimulate milk production further.
- Implement a simultaneous nursing and pumping approach, allowing your baby to nurse on one side while manually pumping the other.
- Try power pumping, a technique involving pumping for 5-10 minutes every 45 minutes over a period of 4 hours.
- Extend pumping sessions by an additional 5 minutes beyond the last drop to maximize milk extraction.
Exploring Herbs and Supplements
Exploring herbal remedies and supplements can offer a natural approach to boost milk supply gradually. Among the commonly recommended options are fennel, fenugreek, blessed thistle, goat’s rue, and marshmallow root. These herbs are believed to contain properties that stimulate lactation and encourage milk production. They can be conveniently consumed in various forms, including herbal teas or dietary supplements.
Do we need any more of an excuse to eat cookies?! One of my favorites are these delicious Oatmeal Chocolate Chip cookies with brewers yeast, flax and rolled oats.
However, it’s important to proceed with caution and seek guidance from your healthcare provider before incorporating these supplements into your routine, particularly if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. While these herbs are generally considered safe for most individuals, they may interact with certain medications or medical conditions. Consulting with your healthcare provider ensures that the chosen supplements are appropriate for your specific health circumstances and that they complement your overall wellness plan. Additionally, your healthcare provider can offer personalized advice on dosage, potential side effects, and the optimal duration of supplementation to achieve the desired results safely.
Reaching Out for Support
Remember, you’re not alone in your breastfeeding journey. Reach out to us for virtual sessions or connect with a local Board Certified Lactation Consultant for personalized guidance. With the right tools and professional support, not only will your baby receive ample nutritious breast milk, but you’ll also have the opportunity to store some for future use.
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