When you breastfeed, you are giving your baby a nutritious start to her life. According to the Babycenter website, breastfeeding protects your baby against gastrointestinal problems, respiratory issues, ear infections and may lower her SIDS risk. Instead of stopping breastfeeding if you are fearful that your milk supply is low, you can do things at home to build it up naturally.
Function
The amount of milk produced is determined by a supply and demand process, according to the Kelly Mom website. The time and frequency that your baby is nursing determines how much milk your body produces. Changing your baby’s nursing habits can be done at home to successfully boost milk production.
Prevention/Solution
Nurse frequently, an average of every two to three hours to increase the milk supply. Monitor the sides that you use when nursing the baby. Switch sides between feedings. Allow the baby to completely empty one breast before switching to the other breast at each feeding.
Types
There are several types of herbs that act as glactoggues. Glactoggues is the term used to describe substances that help to make milk. According to the Dr. Sears website, the two most common herbs used to produce more milk are fennel and fenugreek seeds. These herbs are consumed in tea form on a daily basis to increase milk supply. The Dr. Sears website notes that no scientific tests have verified that these herbs work, and that taking them should not replace other techniques, such as more frequent feedings.
Considerations
To trigger your body’s let down response, you may massage the breasts. You can massage the breasts prior to nursing your baby to encourage your milk to come in. Use a compress dipped in warm water to gently massage around and over the nipple. Press the breast firmly against the chest to encourage the release of milk from the ducts. Once you are done massaging, lean forward to help bring the milk forward.
Warning
Speak to your doctor if you are unsure that you are producing enough milk to feed your baby. He will ask you to monitor the number of wet diapers the baby is producing on a daily basis as well as keep track of her weight. If the doctor has concerns about the baby’s health, supplementation with formula may be discussed.
