It’s a well-known fact that breastfeeding is great for your newborn baby. Although that is highly talked about, something that is a little less discussed is women who struggle to produce milk.
Lactation Struggles
According to fitpregnncy.com – the number one reason mothers stop breastfeeding is because they believe that they simply can’t produce enough milk for their babies’ health.
While some women are empowered by watching their bodies nourish their babies, others lose confidence. If you perceive that you are not producing enough milk and therefore not allowing your baby to grow as fast as he or she can – the mother can lose confidence in herself very quickly.
How can I re-gain my confidence in breastfeeding?
Gaining confidence comes from proving to yourself that you are in fact producing enough milk. Two ways to prove this would be to –
- Weigh your baby before and after feeding to see if your baby is receiving the proper amount of nourishment or not.
- Keep track of the amount of diapers your baby wets throughout the day. According to babycenter.com it should be about six diapers.
How can I produce more breast milk?
If you notice your baby is not satisfied and your breasts are not softer after feeding you can try the following to produce more milk.
- Nurse and nurse frequently. Kellymom.com states that if the removal of breast milk does not take place every few hours, mom’s supply will begin to decrease.
- Avoid pacifiers so that all of the latching and sucking is done during feeding.
- Between feedings, pumping helps support the natural flow of milk all throughout the day so that there is a steady flow.
When to stop –
There is no age restriction. When it is too emotionally or physically painful for you to continue breastfeeding is when you should stop. Do not feel guilty moms. You are incredible, your body is incredible and your baby will be absolutely fine. Formula exists for this reason!
