Many new mothers worry that they are not producing enough milk for their
infants. More than likely, everything is just fine. But if you feel
you aren't, call your pediatrician or OB/GYN for further help. If you
would like to increase your breast milk production, we have a few tips that
should help you along.
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If you are pumping, use a hospital
grade dual electric pump. These can be rented through your hospital and a
minimal fee. Dual breast pumps have been shown to increase the prolactin
level - a hormone that helps to produce your milk.
To increase breast milk supply, pump for ten minutes after your baby has
finished nursing. Do this for about three days or until you see an
increase in breast milk.
Increase the frequency of pumping
or nursing to every two to three hours. This will tell your body that your
baby requires more breast milk, thereby causing it to produce more milk.
Nicotine is known to decrease
breast milk supply. Try to quit smoking, but if you are unable to, smoke
after your baby has nursed.
While you are nursing, avoid
eating eggplant, green tomatoes, cauliflower or large amounts of pureed tomatoes
until your baby is of a good, solid weight. These foods contain nicotine
and may reduce your breast milk supply.
Avoid caffeinated drinks while
nursing. Caffeine is a diuretic and may decrease your supply. It
might also increase your babies movements, causing it to burn more energy and
require more breast milk.
Eat something before
breastfeeding. You should also be sure to drink at least 6 8-oz glasses of
water a day.
Consider spending time with your
baby "skin to skin." Keep the lights low and snuggle your baby close to
you, skin to skin. This can stimulate your milk producing hormones.
Offer your baby the breast while snuggling.
Just as your mother taught you,
sleep when your baby sleeps. If you are exhausted, your milk production
will decrease. Try to get help from family members, and let household
chores go for a few weeks.
If you are on medication, ask your
physician if it might be decreasing your milk supply.
There are teas made from herbs
that are known to increase milk supply. Talk to your OB/GYN before
drinking these teas. While some may be beneficial, others may contain
herbs that are harmful to you or your baby.
