1. Get the right pump
Electric pumps are convenient in terms of time required to express. Getting the right size of breast shield is important. Also, keep a check on pump parts regularly for any damage.
For an occasional user, Manual pump works the best. Make sure you sterilise the pump parts diligently before use.
2. Demand and supply theory
Putting the baby to breast often increases the supply. If you are not around the baby then pump often. This is signal the body to more milk as the demand is increasing.
Note that NO breast pump can extract milk as well as the baby which has good latch.
3. Have picture of your baby by your side
Having a cute picture or your baby's cry recorded when you are expressing milk will also help. Haven't you experienced that letdown or breasts getting engroged when random baby cries are heard or when just a thought of your baby passes through your mind? Crazy but works!
4. Pumping vacation
Pumping vacation doesn't mean you have to actually go on a vacation to some fancy place, it is the vacation where would be dedicating several hours for with the baby and pump. Either pump after the baby nurses or pump from one breast and nurse from the other. Doing this every hour for several hours will up your supply. Having this vacation at least once in 2 weeks will maintain the supply.
5. Food for Lactating mothers
Fenugreek is believed to be one of the supper foods for Lactating mothers. What worked best for me is the Oatmeal. Beer also helps in increasing supply and that doesn't mean you have a hangover! Also look out for some lactation Laddu and cookies recipe
Note : medicinal supplements to increase breast milk only if the low supply issue is confirmed by lactation experts. otherwise, you are bound to suffer from painful engroged breasts which may lead to infection
6. Stay hydrated
Staying hydrated is extremely important. Have a glass of water before and after pumping. Have soups,juices and shakes which helps in keeping you refreshed and hydrated. Breast milk is 80% water so it's normal to feel thirsty often while breastfeeding.
7. Stay stress free
I know that it is easier said than done. Try and relax during the pumping sessions. Do not stress over not producing much as everyday output is not going to same. Meditation and spa helped me relax and wipe out stress to some extent.
8. Birth control pills reduce the supply
Birth control pills especially the ones with estrogens significantly reduce the milk supply. Mention to the doctor that you are Lactating everytime you are advised to take hormonal pills
Dear Reader, Let me know through comments, if there are any feedback or suggestion on the topics which needs to be discussed on priority.
Electric pumps are convenient in terms of time required to express. Getting the right size of breast shield is important. Also, keep a check on pump parts regularly for any damage.
For an occasional user, Manual pump works the best. Make sure you sterilise the pump parts diligently before use.
2. Demand and supply theory
Putting the baby to breast often increases the supply. If you are not around the baby then pump often. This is signal the body to more milk as the demand is increasing.
Note that NO breast pump can extract milk as well as the baby which has good latch.
3. Have picture of your baby by your side
Having a cute picture or your baby's cry recorded when you are expressing milk will also help. Haven't you experienced that letdown or breasts getting engroged when random baby cries are heard or when just a thought of your baby passes through your mind? Crazy but works!
4. Pumping vacation
Pumping vacation doesn't mean you have to actually go on a vacation to some fancy place, it is the vacation where would be dedicating several hours for with the baby and pump. Either pump after the baby nurses or pump from one breast and nurse from the other. Doing this every hour for several hours will up your supply. Having this vacation at least once in 2 weeks will maintain the supply.
5. Food for Lactating mothers
Fenugreek is believed to be one of the supper foods for Lactating mothers. What worked best for me is the Oatmeal. Beer also helps in increasing supply and that doesn't mean you have a hangover! Also look out for some lactation Laddu and cookies recipe
Note : medicinal supplements to increase breast milk only if the low supply issue is confirmed by lactation experts. otherwise, you are bound to suffer from painful engroged breasts which may lead to infection
6. Stay hydrated
Staying hydrated is extremely important. Have a glass of water before and after pumping. Have soups,juices and shakes which helps in keeping you refreshed and hydrated. Breast milk is 80% water so it's normal to feel thirsty often while breastfeeding.
7. Stay stress free
I know that it is easier said than done. Try and relax during the pumping sessions. Do not stress over not producing much as everyday output is not going to same. Meditation and spa helped me relax and wipe out stress to some extent.
8. Birth control pills reduce the supply
Birth control pills especially the ones with estrogens significantly reduce the milk supply. Mention to the doctor that you are Lactating everytime you are advised to take hormonal pills
Dear Reader, Let me know through comments, if there are any feedback or suggestion on the topics which needs to be discussed on priority.
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