Increasing Milk Production
Erin Burt
So you’re finding yourself needing more milk for your wee babe? Maybe you’re an under-producer worried your little one isn’t getting enough, or you’re a pumping mom trying to hurry up and build that freezer stash. Regardless of the reason, let’s talk production increase tips and ideas!
The first thing to do is drink more water! We’re supposed to drink 64 ounces of water a day, and let’s be honest, most of us don’t get nearly that many ounces! So if you’re worried about your milk supply, drink water like it’s your job. Some easy ways to drink more water: try infusing your water with flavor, get an insulted cup that will keep it cold, and put water in your favorite nursing spot at night.
The next place to go in your quest to produce more milk is the store. You can buy special lactation teas and snacks which many women feel to be very useful. You can also go to your regular grocery store and buy oatmeal or Gatorade, and Ovaltine.
Fenugreek is usually talked about as a great way to increase supply, but it can be tricky business. It may increase production, however, be sure to watch your supply closely. The word on the street is that sometimes may cause a drop in supply instead.
Power Pumping
So you may have heard of Power Pumping, the idea is to mimic a baby’s cluster feeding during a growth spurt, so you want to pump until empty, then take a 10 minute break, pump for 10 minutes, take another 10 minute break. Keep pumping for about an hour. Remember those times are guidelines, so if you’re in the middle of a letdown, finish that before stopping.
How often should you do this? That’s a great question! You can do this once a day at about the same time every day for a week. Or you can try a more concentrated approach and power pump a few times a day for a few days. Really, just use your best judgement for what works for your life and don’t try to overdo it.
The most important thing to remember
At the end of the day, no matter how much milk you’re making for you baby, it is enough! You’re doing a great job! Be sure you get sleep, and don’t stress out about your milk production. An exhausted, stressed out momma definitely doesn’t increase supply, so drink some water, get some rest, and relax!
Jenny Ditch lives with her husband and daughter in Illinois and was so glad to have these tips during her exclusive pumping project.
