Lactation is an important part of a mother’s experience. For new mothers, it is a bonding experience with their newborns and a way for them to experience motherhood the way nature intended. Mothers get worried over every small thing when it comes to their babies. Similarly, they also tend to get worried about their lactation process. The thoughts, that whether they are making enough milk or not, keep nagging them. Their thoughts are not for no reason.
A lot of experts will recommend supplements and expensive medical treatments if a mother does not produce enough milk. It can be difficult and frightening for young mothers to discover that they cannot produce adequate milk for their child. There is no need to worry or spend a lot of money on medical treatment when there are natural ways to increase milk production.
Here are some easy tips to increase your lactation.
1- Nurse, Nurse, Nurse
Lactation process works in demand. The more the mother feeds her baby, the more milk is produced. Using formulas for the baby might put the mother at some ease, but it can harm the lactation process. Nursing the child every time they are hungry is no doubt a tiresome job, but it works in favor of the baby and the milk supply.
2- Drink a lot of Water
Mothers should drink a good amount of water when they are lactating. The simple rule of ‘in and out’ applies here. Mothers should take more fluid than the amount getting out of their body so that they are well hydrated. Mix up your fluids by drinking things other than water if you want. It’s not true that you need water rather than other fluids to make milk, lactation consultant Kelly Bonyata reports on her website.
3- Pumping
Pumping is helpful in two aspects, it not only saves milk for future use but also stimulates the production of more milk. A nursing mother should consider pumping for 15 minutes after every few hours. Either that or 8-10 minutes after feeding the baby every time. Pump both breasts at the same time, and it boosts the production of milk. Pumping is the best option when mothers decide to join work again. It is also convenient for stay-at-home mothers, whenever they are taking a nap, busy in household chores or simply want a break from breastfeeding.
4- Be sure of the Latch
The most important part of breastfeeding is if the baby is perfectly latched onto the mother’s breast. A properly latched baby has their tongue stuck out of their gums and their lips are flared open, and not just the nipple but areola would also be in their mouth. If the baby is not properly latched, use your finger or nipple to tickle their mouth, so that the baby opens their mouth. Use a few techniques for positioning to ensure proper latching.
5- Keep switching sides
Mothers must make it a point to switch sides every time they nurse the baby. Switching sides, not only expand the production of milk but also leaves the baby well fed. Whenever the baby starts fiddling, losing interest, or fall asleep, mothers must take it as a cue and switch side immediately.
6- Consult a lactation consultant
Despite a mother’s best efforts, there are always chances that there is something she is missing out on. The best sensible decision is to get help from a lactation consultant if there is a lack of milk production. Lactation consultants excel in the whole process of breastfeeding.
Conclusion
Breast milk is very healthy for the babies, and it provides all the required nourishment to the baby for proper and timely development. Breast milk is essential for the baby to have a strong immune system. Mothers should take all necessary steps so that their babies can get breast milk sufficiently for a longer period of time.
A confinement nanny understands the breastfeeding process, and she can help you in this phase of your motherhood. Confinement Care Services provides expert advice. You can ask us by contacting us or by dropping the question in an email at cs@confinementcareservices.com. We would always be there to help you.