#asktheexpert milk supply is not sufficient.. breast feels soft.... solution for this

Question

Accepted Answer

A decrease in milk supply and softening of the breasts can be concerning, but there are several effective strategies you can try to increase breast milk production:

1. Frequent Nursing or Pumping

Nurse or pump often: The more frequently you empty your breasts, the more milk your body will produce. Aim for 8-12 feedings or pumping sessions per day. The act of sucking or pumping stimulates milk production.

Double pumping: If you pump, try double pumping (pumping both breasts at once) to increase milk production.

2. Ensure Proper Latch and Positioning

Latch: Make sure your baby is properly latched onto your breast. A poor latch can prevent the baby from getting enough milk and reduce milk supply.

Positioning: Experiment with different nursing positions to see if your baby is more effective at emptying your breasts from certain angles.

3. Stay Hydrated and Well-Nourished

Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated is crucial for milk production. Aim for at least 8-10 glasses of water a day.

Healthy diet: Eat a balanced diet with plenty of protein, healthy fats, and whole grains. Including foods like oats, spinach, fenugreek, and garlic in your meals may also help boost milk supply.

4. Power Pumping

Power pumping is a technique where you pump frequently in short bursts (e.g., pump for 20 minutes, rest for 10 minutes, pump again for 10 minutes) to mimic cluster feeding and stimulate milk production.

5. Breast Massage

Gently massaging your breasts while nursing or pumping can help to empty your breasts more effectively and stimulate milk production.

6. Avoid Stress

Stress can negatively affect milk supply. Try to relax and find time for self-care. Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, taking warm baths, or engaging in activities that help you unwind.

7. Herbal Supplements and Galactagogues

Some women find that certain herbs or foods can help increase milk supply, known as galactagogues. Popular ones include:

Fenugreek (consult your doctor before using it)

Blessed thistle

Brewer’s yeast

You can also try lactation cookies or teas, which are made with ingredients like oats and flaxseed.

8. Skin-to-Skin Contact

Skin-to-skin contact with your baby promotes bonding and encourages your body to produce more milk. Spend as much time as possible holding your baby close to you.

9. Check for Medical Issues

Hormonal imbalances, stress, or other medical conditions (such as PCOS, thyroid issues, or previous breast surgeries) could affect milk supply. If these strategies don’t help, it may be worthwhile to consult with your doctor or a lactation consultant to rule out underlying issues.

10. Supplement with Formula (If Needed)

If your milk supply is low and you’re concerned about your baby not getting enough milk, you can consider supplementing with formula while continuing to breastfeed to maintain stimulation.

Conclusion:

Soft breasts are not always a sign of low milk supply, as some women naturally produce less milk at certain stages. However, if you're concerned, increasing nursing/pumping frequency, ensuring proper latch, staying hydrated, and considering lactation aids can help. Consulting a lactation consultant can provide personalized guidance and ensure your breastfeeding journey continues smoothly.