#asktheexpert
Mother’s milk is not sufficient for the baby..how to increase the mother’s milk

Question

#asktheexpert 
Mother’s milk is not sufficient for the baby..how to increase the mother’s milk

Accepted Answer

Increasing milk supply can be challenging for some breastfeeding mothers, but there are several strategies you can try to boost milk production. Here are some tips to help increase your milk supply:

### 1. Breastfeed Frequently:
- Breastfeed your baby frequently, at least every 2-3 hours during the day and night.
- Aim for 8-12 feedings in a 24-hour period to stimulate milk production.

### 2. Ensure Proper Latch:
- Ensure that your baby is latching onto the breast correctly to effectively stimulate milk flow.
- Seek guidance from a lactation consultant or healthcare provider if you're unsure about proper latching techniques.

### 3. Breast Compression:
- During breastfeeding, use breast compression techniques to help your baby get more milk. Compress your breast gently while your baby is feeding to encourage milk flow.

### 4. Empty the Breasts:
- Allow your baby to nurse from one breast until it feels soft and drained before offering the other breast.
- Emptying the breasts fully signals your body to produce more milk.

### 5. Skin-to-Skin Contact:
- Spend time doing skin-to-skin contact with your baby, which can help stimulate milk production and promote bonding.
- Hold your baby close to your chest with their bare skin against yours as often as possible.

### 6. Pumping:
- Use a breast pump to express milk after breastfeeding sessions to further stimulate milk production.
- Pumping between feedings can help increase milk supply, especially if your baby isn't fully emptying the breasts during nursing sessions.

### 7. Stay Hydrated and Well-Nourished:
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated.
- Eat a well-balanced diet rich in nutritious foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.

### 8. Rest and Relaxation:
- Get plenty of rest and practice relaxation techniques to reduce stress, as stress can negatively impact milk production.
- Take breaks when needed and ask for help with household chores and childcare tasks.

### 9. Galactagogues:
- Consider incorporating galactagogues into your diet. Galactagogues are substances that are believed to help increase milk supply. Examples include fenugreek, oats, brewer's yeast, and fennel.
- Consult with a lactation consultant or healthcare provider before using galactagogues, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or concerns.

### 10. Seek Support:
- Reach out to a lactation consultant, breastfeeding support group, or healthcare provider for guidance and support if you're having difficulty increasing your milk supply.
- Surround yourself with supportive individuals who can provide encouragement and assistance along your breastfeeding journey.

### Patience and Persistence:
Increasing milk supply can take time and patience, so be consistent with your efforts and continue to monitor your baby's feeding and weight gain. If you're concerned about your milk supply or your baby's feeding habits, don't hesitate to seek assistance from a healthcare professional.

#asktheexpert Mother’s milk is not sufficient for the baby..how to increase the mother’s milk