Breastfeeding your baby can be one of the most rewarding times of your life, but it can also be one of the most trying times.
“Milk production is one of the most common sources of stress to nursing mothers,” says Dr. Neela Sethi MD, practicing pediatrician and lactation consultant. “Maintaining your supply of milk can really help make your breastfeeding experience more enjoyable for you and your baby.”
Here are a few tips, according to Dr. Sethi, to safely increase your milk production.
- Nurse more often. “One quick way to increase supply is to nurse your baby more frequently and for a longer time on each breast. The more stimulation the breast gets, the more milk it creates. So don’t rush it! Let your baby take their time on the breast to really empty each side.”
- Try to pump in between feeds. “Though this process can be exhausting, one way to increase supply is to pump in between nursing sessions. Even short pumping sessions can help. The breasts will create more milk over time as they are getting more stimulated from the pump. Investing in efficient breastfeeding products, like MAM’s 2-in-1 Double Breast Pump, can make the process a bit easier, give you the freedom to pump anywhere, and allow you to do other tasks.”
- Take care of you. “Make sure that Mama’s needs are also getting met! That includes drinking enough fluids, resting when possible and consuming enough calories with your meals and snacks. You can only make milk for your baby if you are taking care of yourself and listening to your body.”
- Consider taking a supplement to increase your supply under the care of a lactation specialist or your doctor. “There are several oral supplements that can help increase your supply but should be taken with caution and with the assistance of a professional. Ask for help.”
