It's no secret that the baby is the most wholesome and safe food - this is mom's breast milk. Breast milk contains all the necessary vitamins, minerals and antibodies that are so necessary for the baby. Milk is always warm and always sterile. No need to spend money on mixes and bottles. And then wash it and sterilize it all. But it happens that there is not enough milk or there is a lactational crisis. What then should mom do? How to get out of the situation in order to maintain breastfeeding?
Here you need to figure out what increases lactation, how to change habits, lifestyle, which drugs exist to increase the amount of milk.
At the first sign of a lack of milk, do not rush to feed. First, try to take measures to improve lactation.
Review your diet. There are foods that help increase the production of milk by a nursing mother. In your diet every day should contain protein foods, which include poultry, fish or lean meat, as well as milk or kefir at least 250 ml, cottage cheese and hard cheese.
Provide your body with enough fluid, which should be at least two liters per day (including soups). All drinks that you consume should be warm.
With an insufficient amount of milk, it is necessary to attach the baby to the chest more often. An increase in lactation is possible only with regular irritation of the nipple with the lips of a child. When milk production improves, it will be possible to return to normal feeding.
Make sure that the baby grasps the chest correctly. His chin should touch his chest, and his lower lip should be turned out. Proper attachment is ensured when the child captures not only the nipple, but also the areola.
Increased lactation is a process that will require strength and time from the mother. Every night before going to bed, do a therapeutic bath on the chest area. To do this, pour hot water into a large bowl and lower the chest there. It is necessary to carry out the procedure for 15 minutes, constantly adding hot water. Dry your breasts after a bath and dress warmly.
Take a contrast shower twice a day. This procedure also stimulates an increase in lactation.
If you notice that there is less milk, this may be due to fatigue and lack of sleep. Forget about household chores, sleep with your child, often walk with him. When there is an increase in lactation, you can return to household chores.
Special exercises that make elastic breasts contribute to increased milk production.
You can perform massage, the action of which is aimed at increasing lactation. For these purposes, you will need castor oil. Rub it in the palm of your hand, then put your right hand on your chest, and left - on the chest. Gently massage your chest clockwise. Keep your movements soft and smooth.
There are herbs that increase the production of milk by a nursing mother. You need to decide what type of grass is right for you.
All herbs to increase lactation can be divided into three groups:
- herbs that help with digestive problems (dill, caraway seeds, fennel and anise);
- herbs that help with nervous stress (lemon balm, oregano, mint);
- herbs that help with physical exhaustion and low hemoglobin (nettle).
Remember that positive emotions and good mood contribute to greater milk production. While the baby is sleeping, do what you love: read a book or tie socks.
If necessary, consult a breastfeeding consultant. A specialist will help to assess the situation correctly and give valuable advice.
Remember, mother's milk is the best food for the baby. Breastfeeding is the closest and most gentle communication between mother and baby. Therefore, do your best to maintain breastfeeding. The child will thank you with health and a happy smile. Good luck