Before looking for ways to increase the lactation of a nursing mother, you need to evaluate and understand whether you really need it. Sometimes mothers may in vain perceive normal lactation as a lack of milk due to strange baby behavior. If you determine that you actually produce little milk and the baby does not have enough for normal nutrition, then you should consult a doctor and find out from him how to increase the lactation of a nursing mother. The doctor will try to determine why this is happening, and will try to help you solve this problem. In some cases, doctors recommend taking drugs that increase lactation.
The main thing is not to panic! Most mothers are very scared when they discover that their baby is short of milk. It is important not to panic in such a situation, because negative emotions further reduce the production of breast milk. Moreover, the baby is now already concerned about malnutrition, and the poor mood of his beloved mother is transmitted to the child.
How to increase the lactation of a nursing mother? Practical tips
There are a few simple steps you need to take to get breast milk well. If you are already in a situation where you are wondering: “How to increase the lactation of a nursing mother?”, Then you should use these tips. As far as possible, put aside all your plans for a while, and let the household chores wait a bit. Devote all your free time to increase lactation.
- Put the child to the chest at least 11 times in 24 hours, every one and a half to two hours in the afternoon and every three hours at night, even if for this it is necessary to wake the baby.
- Do not take your baby's breasts until you fall asleep or let it go. Milk arrives on the basis of demand, that is, how much crumbs suck, so much is produced for the next feeding.
- If possible, get a breast pump. While the baby is sucking one breast, attach a breast pump to the other. There are also special double breast pumps, most often they are electric and are used for two breasts at once, which contributes to the increased production of prolactin. Prolactin is a hormone that stimulates the appearance of milk. The use of such an apparatus for 10-15 minutes three times a day can significantly increase lactation.
- Even if the child is hungry, do not feed him with additional mixtures of bottles, and also avoid various nipples and soothers. The baby's need for sucking ensures that he spends enough time on the chest to stimulate lactation.
- Eat more foods that are rich in protein and calcium.
- Liquids should be drunk at least 2 liters per day.
- Have more rest, household chores can wait. Also consider sharing sleep. Thus, the baby will be able to suckle without waking up, which will save you from unnecessary trouble.
The most important thing in breastfeeding is the love for your baby and the desire to feed him. The feeding process should always take place in a cozy, comfortable environment and give pleasure, both to the child and the mother. If there is harmony in the family, then you will never be wondering: "How to increase milk lactation?". And if it did arise, then these tips will definitely help you.