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Many mothers breastfeeding their babies may feel like their babies aren't feeding enough, frequently hungry, and not gaining weight quickly. They may conclude that they don't have enough milk for their babies. In reality, each child has a different growth rate leading to varying nutritional and rest needs. However, there are cases where mothers have low milk supply due to various factors
1. Causes of low milk supply after childbirth
- Mother has undergone breast surgery.
- Causes of low milk supply after childbirth may stem from breast infections, such as mastitis or nipple thrush.
- Baby doesn't latch and swallow correctly, or there's a misconnection between the baby and mother's breast.
- Due to the effects of certain medications, such as contraceptive pills.
- Hormonal changes in the mother's body, such as menstruation, conception, or use of artificial hormones.
- Mother breastfeeding less is also a reason for low milk supply as it fails to stimulate the regeneration of new milk
- Mother smoking, drinking alcohol, using drugs.
- Mother being pregnant.
- Sore nipples causing discomfort during breastfeeding, leading to limiting breastfeeding and gradually losing the ability to produce milk.
- Low milk supply may result from early introduction of solid foods, causing the baby to reduce breastfeeding.
2. Tips for increasing postpartum milk supply for mothers
- Position the baby correctly and ensure proper latch: baby's face should be turned towards the mother's breast, and the baby's chin should touch the breast.
- Skin-to-skin contact between mother and baby is crucial for boosting milk supply. If the weather is cool, you can dress your baby in breathable diapers. Hold your baby close to activate hormones and stimulate milk production.
- One tip for increasing postpartum milk supply is to breastfeed frequently, about every hour, to help mothers produce more milk. Remember to alternate breasts regularly to ensure even milk flow.
- Spending as much time with your baby as possible is important. If you have to work regularly, use a breast pump to store milk for your baby to ensure continuous milk production.
- Gently massaging the breasts while breastfeeding also helps mothers produce more milk, stimulating the breasts to produce new milk.
- Let the baby empty at least one breast each time. If the other breast is still full, mothers can use safe breast milk storage bags to store milk in the refrigerator to relieve breast fullness and allow the baby to breastfeed later.
- To increase milk production for mothers, it's advisable to limit the baby's use of pacifiers. If the baby desires, mothers can allow them to suckle on the mother's nipple. Only allow the baby to suck on pacifiers with clear and safe origins when mothers have regular work commitments and cannot be with the baby.
- The mother's diet should ensure healthiness and abundant nutrients. A tip for increasing postpartum milk supply is to say no to beverages containing caffeine such as tea, or coffee.
- Increase resting time. Seize every opportunity to sleep, regardless of the time of day, even during the daytime if mothers don't get enough sleep at night.
Ensure sufficient sleep for the body to have enough energy.
- Always maintain a cheerful and comfortable mood, without feeling anxious. Stress can restrict milk production.
- Only resort to bottle feeding or formula when the baby is older or refuses to breastfeed. Babies exclusively breastfeeding is the most natural way for mothers to have the most abundant milk.
- A tip for increasing postpartum milk supply is to let the baby feel fully satisfied. Allowing the baby to decide when to breastfeed can prevent the baby from only nursing lightly, which may not stimulate new milk production in mothers.
- Functional products that supplement vitamins, and nutrients beneficial for milk production are also an option to help mothers increase milk supply in the body. However, you should consult a doctor or specialist before use to ensure safety for both yourself and the baby.
- A simple tip for increasing postpartum milk supply is to increase calorie intake in the body. Mothers will need about 500 calories to produce milk for the baby. If too much emphasis is placed on weight loss by restricting food intake, the body will use those calories to maintain energy rather than producing milk.
- Ensure adequate hydration. The mother's body needs a certain amount of water to produce milk, being too busy caring for the baby and forgetting to provide water can be a cause of low milk supply.
Motherhood is a journey filled with challenges and joys. It requires patience, resilience, and unconditional love. With dedication and care, mothers nurture their children, guiding them towards a healthy and fulfilling life. Remember to prioritize safety and quality in your choice of products for both you and your little one. Here's to the beautiful journey of motherhood!
