This blog hits straight to the core of how to increase breast milk supply. So many new mothers worry about the amount of milk they are producing and want to know what they can do to keep it or to increase it. Here we examine an NIH study of what works and what does not. We find it incredibly important to have evidence-based research guide our clients and their choices.
Here’s what we learned from the NIH study on breastmilk supply.
What worked– Truths
An essential part of adequate milk production is nursing and/ or pumping frequency. New mothers need to have their baby at the breast and/or pumping 10 -13 times a day during the first two weeks postpartum. This allows the for proper hormonal stimulations of the mammary glands and thus adequate milk supply. A proper latch is essential during these feedings and can affect the amount of milk the baby can extract which impacts the amount of breastmilk that is made.
Decreasing stress and anxiety can affect the letdown reflex and thus allow baby to extract more milk and empty the breast. The NIH study concludes “Maternal anxiety and stress, which may be exacerbated by poor lactation management, are believed to influence milk production by inhibiting milk ejection reflex.”
What could help –
Increased protein intake- early studies have indicated that increased protein intake can slightly increase milk volume.
Increased milk extraction through extra pumping- needs to be maintained and may not affect how much your infant takes in at a single feeding.
What does not help or hurt- Myths
- Increased calorie consumption
- Increase water consumption
- Increased or decreased exercise
- Maternal age
Large hurtles- Preterm babies, low birth weight babies, and sick babies will need extra support from health care professionals. Seek guidance from pediatricians and lactation consultants to establish a good supply and help baby to latch and nurse.
What we find most pertinent about this study is that there are two critical aspects of establishing a good breast milk supply. First, proper initiation of frequent feeding and stimulation of the breast within the first two weeks postpartum. Second, creating a stress-free environment by having adequate support. As doulas and moms, we know the best way to achieve this is to have knowledgeable, hands-on support. That can look different for every family. It can include doulas, lactation consultants, pediatricians, family members, or neighbors and friends. Please know that our doulas are here for your postpartum breastfeeding support! As always our support is with evidence-based knowledge and adequate training on breastfeeding, postpartum healing, and infant care.
Doulas can help in the home with latching, positioning, weighted feeds, keeping baby on a feeding schedule, paced bottle feeding and more, helping mom to feel more confident and successful on her breastfeeding journey. We can also aid in light housework, sibling care, and errand running.
Here’s what our latest client said about our postpartum breastfeeding support-
” …Because of our positive birth experience with Chesapeake Birth and Baby , we decided to hire them for postpartum as well. I can honestly say that because of Danielle, I am breastfeeding my baby. She helped so much during the first few difficult days by providing support and guidance. I believe that, without her support, I would not be breastfeeding and I am forever grateful! Additionally, she provides at home support including doing my laundry, cleaning dishes and watching my baby; a service which has been so helpful as I transition into my new role as a mother. I will definitely be using them in the future if I am blessed with more children. Thank you, Megan and Danielle!” – Ashlee B.
Quotations
To connect with us and hire a postpartum doula support click here
What’s not mentioned in this research is the use of medications and herbal supplements to increase milk supply. You can read more about that here