#AskTheExpert Hi i am a mother of vidhit i am facing issue low milk supply . help me what to do ??

Question

Accepted Answer

Experiencing low milk supply can be challenging, but there are several strategies you can try to increase your breast milk production:

### **1. **Frequent Nursing:****
   - **Nurse Often:** Breastfeed your baby frequently, at least every 2-3 hours. The more your baby nurses, the more milk your body will produce.
   - **Empty Each Breast:** Ensure that each breast is emptied before switching to the other. This signals your body to produce more milk.

### **2. **Pump Between Feedings:****
   - **Pump Regularly:** Use a breast pump to stimulate milk production between feedings. Aim to pump for about 10-15 minutes after each feeding.

### **3. **Stay Hydrated and Nourished:****
   - **Drink Plenty of Fluids:** Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated.
   - **Healthy Diet:** Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Certain foods like oats, fenugreek, and barley are believed to help increase milk supply.

### **4. **Breast Massage and Compression:****
   - **Massage:** Gently massage your breasts before and during nursing or pumping to help stimulate milk flow.
   - **Compression:** Use breast compression while nursing to help your baby get more milk and to stimulate milk production.

### **5. **Rest and Relaxation:****
   - **Reduce Stress:** High stress levels can impact milk production. Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or gentle yoga.
   - **Adequate Rest:** Try to get enough rest and sleep whenever possible.

### **6. **Skin-to-Skin Contact:****
   - **Bonding Time:** Spend skin-to-skin time with your baby. This can help stimulate the release of hormones that promote milk production.

### **7. **Herbal Supplements and Lactation Teas:****
   - **Galactagogues:** Some mothers find that herbal supplements like fenugreek, blessed thistle, and lactation teas help increase milk supply. Consult with your healthcare provider before starting any supplements.

### **8. **Consult a Lactation Consultant:****
   - **Professional Help:** A lactation consultant can provide personalized advice and support to help address any issues with milk supply and breastfeeding techniques.

### **9. **Evaluate Baby's Latch:****
   - **Proper Latch:** Ensure your baby has a proper latch, as an improper latch can hinder milk transfer and reduce supply. A lactation consultant can help with this.

### **10. **Consider Medications:****
   - **Prescription Options:** In some cases, your doctor may prescribe medications to help increase milk supply. Discuss this option with your healthcare provider.

By consistently applying these strategies, many mothers find that their milk supply improves. However, if you continue to experience difficulties, seeking support from healthcare professionals, such as a lactation consultant or your doctor, is important.