Let's talk about milk.
As Postpartum & Infant Care doulas, we are often asked:
Am I producing enough milk?
Most nursing mothers have been worried about their milk supply at least once. It is completely normal.
After the birth of your baby, your body produces an abundance of milk, you have letdowns with the force of a ten-ton truck, and you probably resemble the upside of Dolly Parton.
This abundance can last for a few weeks, up to several months post-birth. Then suddenly, you wake up and those precious melons become deflated balloons. You are no longer leaking milk, your letdowns feel weak, and your breasts appear empty.
Your first thought is probably to panic, but let’s just put a hold on that.
First, we need to ask questions about your baby that can put you at ease:
How is your baby gaining weight?
How many diapers are you changing per day?
Are they meeting their milestones?
Can you still hear your baby swallowing?
Now, let's go through some things you should not be worrying about:
How your breasts feel. Your breasts will feel softer and less full as your milk supply adjusts to your baby's needs. This does not mean you have a low supply; it simply means your body has got the rhythm of how much your baby eats: producing just enough.
If your baby nurses for shorter periods, such as only a couple of minutes on each breast: this could be for snacking or comfort feeds, like before a nap.
If your baby's feeds are closer together. This is called cluster feeding and usually happens in the evenings or because of growth spurts.
Not able to get much milk when you express or pump. Your baby is much more effective than a pump or hand expression and knows exactly how to get the milk out.
While most mothers make more than enough milk, some do suffer from a low milk supply, and it might happen to you if:
You limit your baby's breastfeeding sessions: the more you feed, the more milk you make.
Alternating formula and breastfeeding.
Introduce solid foods before your baby is 6 months old.
Take certain medications/birth control.
You are not getting enough SLEEP.
Have previously had breast surgery.
But how can I increase my supply?
Honestly, breastfeed MORE.
The more you nurse, the more your body will produce. While it doesn’t happen instantly, over time you should see an increase in your supply.
You can also:
Nurse on demand! Follow your baby's cues, and let your baby tell you when it's time to eat.
Consult an IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant).
Make sure your baby is latching correctly.
Alternate sides: once the baby is finished with the left side, offer the right.
Hand express or pump after feeds.
Avoid pacifiers and bottles during this time.
Get enough sleep. Producing breastmilk takes a lot of work, so you need to make sure you are getting enough rest. Our Postpartum & Infant care doulas can help with this.
Skin to skin and lots of baby cuddles. Get that oxytocin flowing!
Self-care. Make time for yourself, make sure you are eating well and drinking plenty, and I mean plenty of water.
Still need some guidance? Stockholm Doulas are here to help.
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