by Kathy Downey

Created on: December 29, 2010   Last Updated: June 08, 2011

 

Although many breastfeeding mothers worry that they are not producing enough milk, the reality is that this is seldom a problem. Rest and good nutrition are all that most breastfeeding moms need in order to produce the milk their babies need. This means you should probably relax. Rest and relaxation may really be all you need to increase your milk production.

If you and your baby are in good health, your body needs only these four requirements in order to produce sufficient milk:

 -Plenty of fluids. If you are dehydrated, your body cannot produce milk.

 -Good nutrition. You need extra calories and some fat content in your diet.

 -The nipple stimulation that a sucking infant provides. This means that your baby’s frequent feedings help you produce more milk.

 -Adequate rest. If you are tense and exhausted, your milk production will suffer.

 You may be saying, “I am the mother of a newborn, of course I am tense and exhausted.” If that is the case, you may need to take a “nursing break.” Pack a cooler with water bottles, juices, fruit or cheese and other foods. Be easy on yourself and keep it simple. If you prefer cold cuts or sandwiches, pack those, but peanut butter and crackers work just as well. You need fluids and food that provides protein and fat.

 Put your cooler next to your bed. Then climb into that bed with your baby in your arms, and relax. Snuggle and enjoy your child, letting him suckle at will as you nibble and sip from your cooler. Ignore the phone, and any other outside demands while you nourish your body and your infant for several hours. This little trick resolves the issue for most women, and it can be repeated as often as needed.

 The most common problem is improper latching on. This is painful for mom and it means that baby has to work harder to get enough milk, making him frustrated and fussy. It also means that the breast does not get the stimulation it needs to keep milk production going. If baby is properly latched on, your nipple and much of the areola is in his mouth, and you will feel a tugging sensation.

 Try repositioning baby, or supporting your breast with your hand when you nurse.  If you are using nipple shields, these may be causing the problem.

Infants who get pacifiers or supplemental bottles sometimes develop nipple confusion. This means that they do not suckle naturally when they are trying to nurse because they are used to the rubber nipple, which requires a different kind of sucking.

 If you feel that insufficient milk really is the problem, the first step is to take a look at your personal habits. Smoking or taking allergy medications can inhibit the production of breast milk. Consuming too much caffeine can also adversely affect the lactation process.  

 Of course, medical issues can cause problems. Women with thyroid deficiencies do have difficulty with breast milk production. These women need to talk with their physicians.

 The la leche league is an organization that specializes in helping mothers solve breastfeeding problems so that they can successfully nurse their infants. If you still need help, you can call your local chapter for advice.

 The most important tip for breastfeeding mothers is this: Relax and trust your instincts. Take care of yourself, and enjoy this special time with your infant.

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