Breast milk is the best source of nutrition for newborns, and it is recommended that moms breastfeed their babies exclusively for the first six months. However, some new moms struggle to produce enough milk to satisfy their babies.
If you’re a new mom and are worried that you’re not producing enough milk, don’t worry! There are ways you can increase your milk production. Here are six tips for new moms to produce more breast milk:.
1. Nurse frequently
One of the best ways to produce more breast milk is to nurse frequently. The more you nurse, the more milk your body will produce. Try to nurse your baby every two to three hours during the day, and at least once during the night.
If your baby is having a growth spurt, you may need to nurse more often.
2. Make sure your baby is latching correctly
It’s important to make sure your baby is latching correctly to stimulate milk production. A good latch means your baby is able to remove the milk from your breast efficiently, which signals your body to produce more milk.
If you’re experiencing pain while breastfeeding, your baby may not be latching correctly. Consider reaching out to a lactation consultant for help.
3. Drink plenty of water
Drinking enough water is essential for milk production. Staying hydrated helps ensure that your body has enough fluid to produce breast milk. Aim to drink at least eight to ten glasses of water per day.
You can also drink other fluids like milk, juice, or herbal tea, but water should be your primary fluid intake.
4. Try breast massage and compression
Breast massage and compression can help increase milk production. You can massage your breasts before and during nursing, or in between nursing sessions. Try using a firm pressure and circular motions.
You can also use breast compression during nursing by gently squeezing your breast with your hand while your baby is nursing. This can help stimulate milk flow and encourage your body to produce more milk.
5. Get enough rest
Getting enough rest is essential for milk production. When you’re tired, your body produces less milk. Try to get as much sleep as possible, and take naps during the day if you can.
If you’re having trouble sleeping because of your baby’s schedule, consider getting help from a partner or family member so you can get some rest.
6. Consider using a breast pump
If you’re struggling to produce enough milk, consider using a breast pump. Pumping can help stimulate milk production, and you can use the pumped milk to feed your baby when you’re not able to nurse.
You can also pump in between nursing sessions to increase milk production. Consider using a double electric breast pump for maximum efficiency.
Remember, it’s normal to worry about producing enough milk for your baby. But with these tips, you can increase your milk production and provide your baby with the nourishment they need.