Causes of Less Milk Supply - How to Produce More - Dr RK Joshi

Dr RK Joshi

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Condition of Less Milk

Doesn’t always mean less milk, could be a matter of perception (50%). Raise a mother’s confidence in her ability to nourish her baby. Encourage continuation of exclusive breast feeding. 

Doesn’t always mean less milk, could be a matter of perception (50%)

  • Baby goes to sleep for 2-3 hrs after each feeds
  • Baby passes urine at least 6-8 times in 24hrs
  • Gain weight at 10-15 gm/kg/day
  • Crosses birth weight by 2 weeks of age
  • Mouth wide open
  • Lower lip turn outside
  • Chin touching the breast

Mother must eat right food and rest enough. 

Mother can take all the food which are being prepared at home including green veg, fruits, egg, cereals and pulses.

  • Counselling mother and family members.
  • Raise mother’s confidence in her ability to nourish her baby.
  • Encourage continuation of exclusive breast feeding

Only restrictions for mother is cow’s milk as it contains a lot of unwanted proteins which are not required for the baby and can cause allergy in the form sever neonatal colic and bloody stool in baby.

Only restrictions for mother is cow’s milk as it contains a lot of unwanted proteins which are being secreted through breast milk and can cause severe Cow milk protein allergy (CMPA) in the form of vomiting, severe diarrhoea or may be blood in stool.

There are several factors that can contribute to low breast milk supply in lactating mothers ,including:

 

 
1. Inadequate milk removal: Infrequent or ineffective breastfeeding or pumping can lead to decreased milk supply. It is important to breastfeed frequently, at least 8-12 times per day, and to ensure that the baby is latching on properly.
 
2. Hormonal imbalances: Certain hormonal imbalances, such as thyroid disorders, can affect milk supply.
 
3. Dehydration: Dehydration can lead to a decrease in milk production. Lactating mothers should ensure they are drinking enough fluids, ideally water, to stay hydrated
 
4. Nutritional deficiencies: A lack of certain nutrients, such as iron, zinc, and vitamin B12, can affect milk production. Lactating mothers should consume a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrient-dense foods.
 
5. Stress: Stress can interfere with milk production. Mothers should try to reduce stress levels and get adequate rest.

To support breastfeeding and ensure adequate milk supply, lactating mothers should consume a balanced and varied diet that includes:

 

 1. Protein-rich foods: Such as lean meat, fish, poultry, eggs, and legumes.
 
2. Healthy fats: Such as avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil.
 
3. Complex carbohydrates: Such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
 
4. Iron-rich foods: Such as leafy greens, red meat, poultry, and beans.
 
5. Calcium-rich foods: Such as dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified plant-based milks.
 
6. Plenty of fluids: Lactating mothers should aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water or other hydrating fluids per day.
 
It is important to note that while some foods are believed to increase milk supply, such as oats, fennel, and fenugreek, there is limited scientific evidence to support these claims.
 
 
 

The correct attachment to the breast while feeding involves the following steps:

 

 1. Position the baby: Hold the baby close to the body with their nose level with the nipple. The baby should be facing the breast, and their mouth should be open wide.
 
2. Get a good latch: Gently bring the baby to the breast, making sure that their mouth covers as much of the areola (the dark area around the nipple) as possible. The baby’s lips should be flanged outward, and their chin should be pressed into the breast.
 
3. Check for a good latch: The baby’s mouth should be wide open, and their lips should be flanged outward. The baby’s cheeks should be full and rounded, and there should be no clicking or smacking sounds.
 
4. Watch for signs of effective feeding: The baby should be sucking and swallowing, and the mother may feel a tugging or pulling sensation.
 
5. Break the suction: To remove the baby from the breast, gently insert a finger into the corner of the baby’s mouth to break the suction before pulling the baby away. claims.
 
 
 

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