Breastfeeding is such a beautiful intimate moment - a bond that is shared between only you and your little one. Unfortunately, it may come with struggles like with trouble latching, breast pain, or low milk supply.
Struggling with low milk supply? Let's first understand what may cause it. Breast milk is affected by "supply and demand". The more you feed your baby, the more milk your body produces to keep up with the demand and vice-versa. The following may be the culprits:
- If you are supplementing your baby with formula, in addition to breast milk, it can result in you breastfeeding less, reducing milk demand, reducing the production of milk.
- Cutting your feeding time? This can cause you to not fully drain your breast and decrease milk stimulation.
- Longer periods between feedings can lower supply. This may be easier for momma, but it will decrease the demand for milk production.
Now that you have found the culprit of your low milk supply, let's find out some ways you can help increase it!
- Keep hydrated! Milk is about 90% water, so make sure you are drinking water constantly. Beverages with electrolytes and coconut water can help with hydration.
- Eating healthy helps too! Adding fenugreek, oatmeal or oat milk, fennel seeds, lean meat, poultry, and garlic has been sworn by many moms -including myself. These foods contain estrogen-like compounds and iron, even though there is not a lot of evidence or studies that support the above.
- Nurse your baby on demand. As soon as baby is hungry, breastfeed your little one. They will definitely let you know when they're hungry. Being out and about should not prevent you from feeding your little one. Having a nursing bra and nursing top will make it easier to discreetly feed your baby. Check out these breastfeeding essentials!
- Pump if you're not able to nurse! Usually every two hours is a good interval between feedings or pumping.
- Make sure to drain your breast. Try pumping after breastfeeding to ensure it's properly drained.
- Being comfortable is important for your baby and yourself. Make sure you and your baby are in a comfortable position and the latch is correct. When babies and mommies are not comfortable in their position, it can prevent latching and can lead to your baby getting frustrated. Be sure to take a deep breath and relax. This will allow for a better flow.
- Try switching between breasts to ensure both breasts are drained. If you're only feeding your baby one breast, try pumping the other breast at the same time. A pumping bra will make this possible, hassle-free!
All in all, make sure you are hydrated and pumping or nursing every two hours to increase supply! We all know life happens, but not doing so will affect your supply, so make sure you have the proper apparel to be able to do so - even while on-the-go!
If you are still struggling, contact your healthcare provider or lactation consultant to see if there are any underlying issues that need to be taken care of.