If a mother is not able to produce enough breast milk, it’s important to act quickly but calmly. Here’s what you can do:
Immediate Steps to Help Increase Milk Production:
- Ensure Proper Latch:
- Sometimes, poor latch leads to ineffective milk removal.
- Consult a lactation consultant or trained nurse to ensure the baby is latching properly.
- Frequent Breastfeeding:
- Encourage the baby to breastfeed every 2–3 hours, even if only a little milk is coming.
- More frequent suckling stimulates milk production.
- Use Breast Pump:
- If the baby isn’t feeding well, use a breast pump every 2–3 hours.
- Pumping after each feed also helps stimulate milk production.
- Stay Hydrated and Well-Nourished:
- Drink plenty of water.
- Eat nutritious, balanced meals including protein, leafy greens, and healthy fats.
- Skin-to-Skin Contact:
- Hold your baby skin-to-skin often. It helps hormones like oxytocin that support milk let-down.
- Avoid Stress:
- Stress can reduce milk production. Ensure the mother gets rest, emotional support, and reassurance.
🧪 If There’s No Improvement:
- Consult a Pediatrician or Gynecologist:
- Rule out underlying issues like hormonal imbalance, retained placenta, or anemia.
- Check Baby’s Health:
- Make sure the baby is sucking effectively and doesn’t have any health issue like tongue-tie.
- Consider Galactagogues (Only Under Doctor’s Advice):
- Medicines like Domperidone or herbs like fenugreek may help but must be prescribed.
🍼 Temporary Formula Feeding:
If the baby isn’t getting enough nutrition:
- Introduce formula milk temporarily while continuing efforts to improve breastfeeding.
- Always feed using clean bottles and under pediatrician’s supervision.
