Low Milk Supply

Many mothers often wonder if they are producing enough milk. I hear this all the time when I see my moms as a Lactation Consultant. Your body will keep up with your baby's demand if you breastfeed every 2-3 hours in the first few weeks, having 8-12 feedings in a 24 hour period. Breastfeeding babies are hungry more often than formula fed babies.This is because breast milk is much easier for them to digest therefore, babies are hungrier faster. Also, when a baby goes through a growth spurt, they will eat more. Monitoring wet diapers and bowel movements daily is also a good way to see if your baby is breastfeeding well. If the baby is wetting 5-6 diapers after the first week and has a few bowel movements, then your baby is doing well. Bowel movements after the first week should have a yellow seedy coloring. There are a few things that I tell my patients to help them with their milk supply, eating oatmeal is good. It is very important to try to relax.I know this is hard when you have a new baby. One thing that I find very helpful is More Milk Plus by a Motherlove. Many stores are now carrying this or you can order it directly from their website. This helps greatly to increase milk. Another great idea is putting a heating pad on for a few minutes before you breastfeed.This is like taking a warm shower. It has the same effect. Good luck. I hope you establish a good milk supply.