Many women worry about their breast milk supply and whether it will be enough for the baby’s satisfaction. Breastfeeding for the first six months is essential for the health of the baby. When you realize your breast milk supply is low, there are various ways to increase the production.
Feed on both sides
Your milk production will increase when you feed the baby on both sides. When the baby slows down from one breast change to the other one. Most mothers are used to feeding the baby from one side, making the other breast to have a low supply of milk. Studies show that a mother breastfeeding from both parties increases the fat content and milk production.
Breastfeed Often
When you breastfeed more often, milk production increases since the letdown reflex is released. It is advisable to breastfeed a new baby up to 12 times a day. If you are consistent in breastfeeding, you will have more stimulation for milk release.
Use a breast pump
Before pumping your breast, warm them for easy pumping. Pump after feeding the baby, and you have milk leftovers or when the baby missed a feeding. Breast pumping is a technique known for removing more milk. Breast compression can also be used by mothers whose babies are not healthy enough to nurse to help them take in more milk.
Take vitamins and eat well
Breastfeeding mums should take vitamins and minerals for healthy milk production. Examples of these vitamins include calcium, iron, folic acid, and vitamin D. Eat foods rich in energy for milk supply. A well-balanced diet with milk boosting foods will help you get enough milk for your baby.
Take drinks
90% of breast milk comprises water. Taking plenty of water and other healthy beverages will keep you hydrated. Sometimes you experience dizziness or headache when breastfeeding. This is a sign of dehydration. It is advisable to take at least eight glasses of water daily.
Check your lifestyle
Stress, anxiety, and fatigue can affect breast milk production to a large extent. Relaxing and taking a nap can boost your milk production. Quit alcohol, smoking, and using combined birth control pills because they interfere with the letdown reflex hormones that release breast milk. Anything that affects your emotions negatively can decrease your milk supply.
Skin to skin contact
Apart from creating a connection with your child, skin-to-skin communication can boost milk production. This technique also regulates body temperature, lowers stress, and improves the breathing of the baby. A mother will make more breast milk when she has a great bond with her child.
Be confidence
As a mother, you may have some fears and insecurities about breastfeeding. When you have questions on nursing, get a lactation consultant to guide you through the journey. It is also essential to believe in yourself that milk production is enough for the baby. Search for support groups of mothers to boost and encourage one another through the journey.
Avoid giving your child a Pacifier
When you get used to giving your child a pacifier when they cry, you are suppressing your breast capacity to release milk. Avoid giving your child a Pacifier in the first six months to establish your breastmilk supply. Your baby will nurse well when there is no pacifier in the picture.
Wake your baby
Babies sleep a lot during the first six weeks. Waking her up to breastfeed is essential for breast milk production. This is the only food your baby is taking, and you want to ensure they are nourished. There are ways you can use to keep your baby awake. For example, you can unwrap the baby from the warm shawls, rub the baby’s feet, or change her diapers.
Considering the highlighted factors will help you increase your breast milk. Do not pressure yourself when breastfeeding as long as you are doing the best to feed your child; that is the most important thing to do as a mother.
