Introduction
Low milk supply is a common concern for many breastfeeding mothers, and understanding its causes and solutions can help alleviate worries and support successful breastfeeding. Numerous factors can contribute to insufficient milk production, including delays in breastfeeding, poor latch, medical conditions, and lifestyle choices. Recognizing these causes and knowing how to address them can make a significant difference in maintaining a healthy milk supply. This guide will explore the reasons behind low milk supply and offer practical tips to enhance breast milk production effectively.
1.What are some causes of low supply?
There are many different reasons why some women have low milk supply.
1. Delay in breastfeeding or separation of mother and child after delivery, such as if the child needs to be admitted to a special care nursery or if the mother is unwell after birth.
2. Poor attachment to the breast, such as flat or inverted nipples, tongue or lip tie.
3. Due to jaundice
4. May be due to a sleeping baby or delivery.
5. Scheduled or timed feeding, rather than feeding the baby on demand.
6. Taking an oral contraceptive pill that contains estrogen.
7. Breastfeeding along with formula.
8. Skipping breast feeds and using a formula feed
9. Long-term use of nipple shields
10. Smoking
Breast milk supply may decrease if a woman has medical problems such as polycystic ovarian syndrome, hypothyroidism, diabetes and prediabetes, or takes certain blood pressure medications for colds and flu or birth control pills. In some women, breastfeeding becomes difficult after breast or nipple surgery. In some women, during puberty and early pregnancy the breasts do not change in a way that makes breastfeeding easier.
1.1 Normal child behavior
Some mothers have unrealistic expectations of how the baby will behave and may worry that the baby’s behavior may indicate a low supply. If your baby is changing a good number of wet nappies each day, a low milk supply may not be the cause.
2.What is normal for a mother?
Breastfeeding is different for every woman, but the following doesn’t mean you have a low supply.
1. Your breasts suddenly feel tender. This is normal as your milk supply adjusts to your baby’s needs.
2. Your breasts do not produce milk, stop leaking or leak only a little.
3. If you find it difficult to pump too much with an electric pump, remember that the baby can perform this task much more effectively on his own.
3.How to increase milk supply?
The following can help increase your breast milk supply.
1. Adopt the baby in the correct position and the breast is pumping milk effectively.
2. Be prepared to breastfeed your baby more often. Feed on demand every 2-3 hours at least 8 times in 24 hours.
3. Switch your baby from one breast to the other. Offer each breast twice.
4. Make sure your breasts are well emptied at each feed or pumping session. You can express after breastfeeding to make sure.
5. Do not go more than 5 hours without expressing milk. Breastfeeding your baby is the most effective way to do this, but otherwise use a hand or electric pump.
6. When your baby is feeding, press your breast to help the milk flow as it will also make sucking easier.
7. Make sure you are drinking plenty of water, eating a healthy balanced diet and not missing out on any essential nutrients.
8. Also make sure you are getting plenty of rest between feedings.
There is a prescription drug that can increase the hormone prolactin, which can help stimulate breast milk production. Only your doctor can tell you if this medicine is right for you. The best way to increase your breast milk supply is to breastfeed or express your milk. If you think you have a low milk supply, talk to your doctor, breastfeeding counselor or child health nurse.
Conclusion
Addressing low milk supply involves understanding its underlying causes and implementing strategies to increase milk production. By addressing issues such as poor attachment, ensuring frequent feedings, and maintaining good health and hydration, many mothers can successfully boost their milk supply. If concerns persist, consulting with healthcare professionals can provide personalized guidance and support. Embracing these practices can help ensure a more fulfilling breastfeeding experience for both mother and baby.