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BF Question

20
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 07 June 2011 - 13:04

Hi
I was wondering how I can increase my milk supply. It seems to be getting less.
My routine has been hectic for the past few weeks so I was pumping a bit less and feeding a bit less too. Is the supply gone forever? Or can I do something to bring it back?

2782
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 07 June 2011 - 17:52
Better for your supply not to give any formula as it does mean they will suck less on the boob and therefore give less feedback to produce milk but if you are happy to give a little formula and keep the amount of top up they get constant, your supply shouldn't drop further. If you keep topping up more and more then your supply will drop to match so it is something you'll have to keep on top of if you want to keep breastfeeding.
74
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 07 June 2011 - 14:21
Hi Tania520, please be aware that the amount you're able to pump does not reflect the amount the baby gets when directly feeding from the breast. Babies are much more efficient than any pump if latched on correctly. Pumping can vary due to stress and other issues. Sounds like you're having a hectic time right now. As kiwispiers said: try to put them on as often as possible and in the meantime rest and sleep and don't let anything stress and rush you (easier said than done, I know). Look at nappy output and weight gain and try to avoid formula top ups if possible. In a couple of days your supply should be back on track. I found breastfeeding tea helpful. I thinks Organic Shop sells it but you can also make it yourself: it's fennel, anise and cumin. Drink lots of fluids (tea or water) also helps with milk supply issues. Good luck! <em>edited by happymommy on 07/06/2011</em>
20
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 07 June 2011 - 13:23
My girls are 3 months and they do take formula as well as my supply was not enough for both in the start. But over the past week I have noticed the supply getting even less, as I was definitely able to pump more before...
2782
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 07 June 2011 - 13:19
How old is your baby?. Pretty much yes you can increase it, it will take a few days. 100% the best way to increase your supply is to put the baby to your breast more often and for longer, second best is pumping. since it dropped in response to less feeds this is all it should take to bring it back. Also making sure you get enough sleep, avoid heavy exercise and don't restrict your calorie intake to much (so no crash diets). There are various pills and potions but none of them are as effective as this. Best way to reduce your supply is to start giving formula in between breastfeeds. Also at around the 3 month mark you stop feeling so "full" in the breasts which in itself doesn't mean you haven't got enough milk, but usually just means your body has figured out the right amount instead of overproducing and reabsorbing all the time. So long as you are feeding your baby often enough (this varies from woman to women)and the weight gain is roughly following the norm you should be fine.
 
 

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