Mother's milk is invaluable for a newborn. It not only provides nourishment to the baby but also protects them from infections. For the first six months after birth, breast milk alone is sufficient for the baby's complete growth. However, sometimes the mother's body may not produce enough milk, which is a natural cause for concern. Nevertheless, there's no need to panic. Breast milk supply can be increased by adopting some natural, safe, and scientific methods.
Pay Attention to Breastfeeding Position and Timing
The most effective way to increase breast milk production is to breastfeed frequently. According to experts, a newborn should be fed every 2 to 3 hours. The more often the baby breastfeeds, the more milk the body will produce. Breastfeeding position also matters. Breastfeeding in the correct posture ensures that the baby receives an adequate amount of milk and also helps to empty the breast, which speeds up the milk production process.
Practice Skin-to-Skin Contact
Holding the baby against your chest leads to skin-to-skin contact, which activates a hormone called 'oxytocin.' This hormone promotes the milk ejection reflex (let-down reflex). Additionally, it strengthens the emotional bond between mother and child, which mentally relaxes the mother and facilitates milk flow.
Stay Away from Stress, Get Good Sleep
Stress, fatigue, and lack of sleep can affect breast milk production. Therefore, new mothers should get adequate rest and deep sleep. If the baby wakes up frequently at night, try to catch up on sleep by taking short breaks during the day. Meditation, light yoga exercises, and deep breathing techniques are helpful in reducing stress.
Adopt a Nutritious and Balanced Diet
For increasing breast milk, it is essential that the mother's nutrition is complete. Include green leafy vegetables, seasonal fruits, whole grains, pulses, milk, ghee, and dry fruits in your diet. Some traditional foods like fenugreek seeds, fennel seeds, carom seeds, cumin, asparagus, garlic, etc., are believed to help increase milk supply in breastfeeding women. Also, Ayurvedic options like Panchamrit or Gond ke Laddu are beneficial after delivery.
Drink Plenty of Water and Stay Hydrated
The demand for fluids in the mother's body increases during breastfeeding. Therefore, it is necessary to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water throughout the day. In addition, beverages like coconut water, buttermilk, soups, and fresh fruit juices also help keep the body hydrated and promote milk production.
Develop the Habit of Pumping Between Breastfeeds
If the baby does not breastfeed frequently or the mother is away from the baby for some time, continue to express milk with the help of a breast pump. This will keep the breast empty of milk and signal the body that more milk needs to be produced. This keeps the supply of breast milk regular and stable.
Don't Forget to Consult a Doctor
If the milk supply does not increase even after trying all the above measures, consult your gynecologist or lactation counselor. In some specific medical conditions, medications or supplements may be required.
Becoming a mother is a beautiful but responsible experience. Lack of breast milk can be a common problem, but it can be easily overcome with timely proper measures and information. The most important thing is that the mother should take care of herself so that she can keep her baby healthy and nourished. Remember, a healthy mother lays the foundation for a healthy baby.
