Advice for Breastfeeding First Time Mom

I couldn't use a pump and I was a FT working mom. Had the daycare provider suggest suing my hands. It worked great!!! Yes, just like squeezing the toothpase out of the tube. Work from the outer edges and squeeze it out toward the nipple. I got 3-4 times as much milk out this way. I could also feel where the milk was. The pumps never stayed on and even an electronic one wasn't strong enough. I'd hold the bottle under the nipple and pump right into it. Best advice on this topic ever! Afterall, pump's haven't been around forever.

I suggest pumping more often to increase the demand and then the supply should increase. You may need to supplement formula while you do that. I would not continue to add cereal into the bottle of breastmilk. Her little digestive track can't handle that, considering they aren't supposed to have cereal until 4-6 months old.
Good luck, but do keep in mind that some women may be low milk producers. I couldn't keep up with my 2nd child so I ended up just doing what I could with breastfeeding and then supplementing the rest.

Brewers yeast! Long ago was not always easy to find so my husband bought beer that contained active brewers yeast! Milk supply is suppose to be based on supply/demand but I ned the brewers yeast ot help with milk productioon

The basics of supporting milk production!
• Nourish yourself with good foods and liquids.
• Rest when you are tired.
• Frequent milk removal: breastfeeding and/or pumping

Foods: Barley, brown rice, oats, almonds, avocados, beets, carrots (*especially carrot juice), leafy greens, winter squash, thick grain-based soups and stews.

Beverages: Try to drink something every time you breastfeed or pump.
Water, herbal teas, fresh fruit and vegetable juice, soup broth.

Herbs that help milk production*:
• Alfalfa: High in folic acid, vitamins A, D, E, K, digestive enzymes and phytoestrogens. Can eat alfalfa sprouts or take 2-3 tablets or capsules 3 times a day or drink as tea (1 tsp. seeds in 8 oz. boiling water; steep 10-20 min). Alfalfa and Fenugreek (see dosage below) used together seem to work well.
• Anise seed: Eases gas and bloating; also useful for soothing a “colicky” baby.
• Blessed thistle: Also helps digestion & for baby who has infrequent stools. Drink one cup of tea before meals.
• Borage
• Fennel
• Fenugreek: Also helpful for congestion & cough. Can be taken in capsule form (each capsule contains 580-610mg). Take 2-3 capsules 3 times a day. Increase in milk supply is usually seen in ~3 days with full response in ~1 week. Tea has bitter flavor; can add honey or lemon for flavor. May notice a “maple” odor in urine and sweat. Do NOT use during pregnancy as it may stimulate uterine contractions. See information above about using Fenugreek and Alfalfa together.
• Hops (non-alcoholic beer)
• Milk Thistle
• Nettles
• Red raspberry leaves
• Vitex: Also helps to regulate menses after pregnancy and to relieve symptoms of PMS. Tea is very bitter! Can be taken as capsule (2 “00” capsules per day) or tincture (5 ml of 1:5 tincture once a day).

Mother’s Milk Tea*:
• Mother’s Milk Tea can be purchased in tea bag form (Mother’s Milk Tea by Traditional Medicine, or Nursing Mom’s Tea by Yogi).
• To make your own Mother’s Milk Tea: Mix 1 oz. Chamomile and Catnip, ¼ oz. Fennel seeds, ½ oz. Borage and 1/8 oz. Lavender flowers. Put 1 tablespoon of the mixture in 1 cup of boiling water. Steep at least 10 minutes & drink.
• OR put ½ to 1 oz of any of the dried herbs listed above in 1 quart of boiling water and drink ~4 cups per day.

More Milk Plus*:
• Tincture form, blend of fenugreek, nettles, blessed thistle, and fennel see
• Capsule form (take 1 capsule 4 times daily).

Menses and milk supply:
• Milk supply ↓may occur ~1 week before menstrual period & last a few days into the period due to lower blood Calcium levels from mid-cycle to second day of menses.
• Low blood calcium levels can also cause uterine cramping.
• Taking a Calcium-Magnesium supplement ###-###-####mg) from mid-cycle to day 3 can help maintain milk supply and decrease or eliminate cramps.
• Do NOT use Tums, as Calcium needs an acid environment to be used by the body.

HOPE THIS HELPS...IT REALLY WORKED WELL FOR ME WHEN MY SUPPLY GOT LOW...STARTED EATING OATMEAL EVERY MORNING AND TAKING MORE MILK PLUS CAPSULES DAILY. AND I FIT OTHER FOODS IN MY DIET AS I COULD. MY DAUGHTER IS STILL NURSING AT 17 1/2 MONTHS...

I had big problems with this, but unfortunately where I lived we didn't have a lactation consultant except for one afternoon a week. Needless to say, my daughter didn't continue breastfeeding and that was devastating. (she was 10oz. less then birth weight at 6 weeks and very dehydrated).

What I learned from all of this was some things to do to help boost your milk supply. Fenegreek is an herb that helps with milk production. Also try the Mother's Milk tea (tastes like fennel seeds) or even clover tea (supposed to make it richer).

If you need a special boost your OB-GYN can prescribe Reglin for you. Its used to treat intestinal issues, but evidently it affects the milk production part of your brain. You take it for 12 days on a graduated course and then taper off. I tried this as we were desperate to get off of formula, but unfortunately it caused severe anxiety - this is a side affect - and since my daughter was flat out refusing the breast at all for 24 hours, I just said forget it, I'm done, quiting the meds cold turkey.

I'd try the herbs and teas first, if you're still having issues talk to your DR. about Reglin and see what they think.

Also, a pump does not necessarily get out the same as what a baby gets. Some people have a hard time pumping out anything at all, but have breastfeed babies with no issues. So don't let the amount you get out worry you.

Another thing might be to allow your daughter to take the breast more often, this will boost your milk supply as well.

Best wishes!

I'll just tell you what other moms have told you, too--the pump is never as efficient as the baby at getting milk out, so don't use the amount you can pump as a gauge of how much milk you're producing. Also, babies nurse almost constantly in the beginning, and when they go through growth spurts (including one around 6 weeks), they want to nurse even more! I know it can feel like the baby is attatched to you 24/7. Six weeks is awfully young to be giving cereal--you might end up with constipation/upset tummy issues. If you supplement with formula, please realize that every time you give formula instead of putting the baby to the breast, it doesn't give your body an accurate picture of how much milk it should be producing to satisfy your baby. Remember, if she pees, poops, and gains weight, she's getting enough, even if she's crying constantly to eat (that's how they say "feed me again, mama"). As far as increasing your milk supply, get plenty to drink and make sure you eat a healthy diet (I've noticed my milk supply actually go down when I skip meals). There's a tea you can get called Mother's Milk that has herbs to increase milk production. It does work and it doesn't taste bad, either! Good luck to you and your sweet little baby!

I have only breastfed one child, but I'm still at it after one year with some help from a lactation consultant and now I'm a pro! My problem now will be weening him - he'll never want to give it up. =) So, first I will ease your mind and let you know that she probably IS getting enough from you, even when you pump and do not see a result. When you pump, you are only able to empty the breast 40% of the way, while your baby is able to completely empty it, so pumping is not always a great judge of how much milk we make. It is absolutely NOT recommended to mix milk with cereal in a bottle. If you want to feed her cereal with a spoon to fill her up and teach her how to eat, that is wonderful, but it is not advised to put it in a bottle at ANY age. Babies have very small tummies and it does not take much to fill them up! Much less than we might think. If you are giving her the formula at all might hurt your chances at nursing b/c that is taking away from those power sessions she'll have with you. Remember, you need her to empty your breast completely. Finally, to answer your question, I also struggled with my milk supply at time (especially on one side in particular) and I went to GNC and purchased a supplement called Fenugreek. I believe I took 3 or 4 capsules about three times per day. It worked wonders! I also increased my water intake (difficult, but helped immensely). I also pumped in between nursing sessions. It absolutely works like supply and demand - but you must give it TIME. When I went to work, I pumped on the car ride there, and then on the car ride back in order to add two sessions. Finally, the best piece of advice I received from my lactation consultant was to power pump. It really isn't fun, but it sure does work. Here's how you do it: Pump for ten minutes, then stop for ten minutes, then pump again for ten minutes. Do this for one hour straight. It's amazing. Do this a few times per day. Good luck! It is certainly a challenge to be a nursing mother, but so worth it, as it is the best gift of nutrition you can give your baby. Stick with it and you will be so proud of yourself. I only intended to nurse for 6 months and then kept pushing myself. I'm so glad I did. YOU CAN DO IT! Don't let anyone discourage you. You have to be strong to do it, but it is possible. If you have any questions at all on anything I mentioned (I hadn't planned on writing this long, sorry) please message me! Take care and best of luck. Enjoy that beautiful baby!

I had this problem too. It went away when I made sure I was drinking AT LEAST 8 8oz glasses of water a day. Good luck.
Barb

in addition to some of the other advice i've read (and maybe someone's already mentioned it) but make sure your drinking enough water and eating enough. If you lag in these areas it can decrease your milk supply. I would support the advice already given that the supplementing will only decrease your milk supply even more. just keep nursing her. it is a growth spurt most likely as someone mentioned. don't worry, it won't always be that frequent! :)

Hi T.!
I've heard the most important thing you can do is drink water! The recommendation that I have heard is half of your body weight in onces. For example, I weigh 150 lbs. I need to drink 75 oz of water a day. Another thing that I heard works is nutritional yeast flakes. Which you could probably get at a health food store. Good Luck. Let me know if I can be of any help!

First step in increasing milk supply

STOP PUMPING! Your Daughter is going through a GROWTH SPURT she's going to eat more often and take longer at the breast this is the ONLY way your body will produce more.

The more SHE sucks (not the pump, pumps do not have the same effect on hormones that a baby does) the more milk you will produce.

Pumping, and supplementing her with formula is a sure fire way to make nursing fail.

I agree with everything that has already been said, I would add though, that a baby can always get more from you than a pump will.
So just b/c the pump says that you are only making 2oz, your baby will be able to take more than that if that's what she needs.
Good Luck!

I agree with the first response. I think I was so uptight, I wasn't drinking and eating enough. My lactation consultant recommended that I pump for 10 to 15 minutes directly following a feeding. And there are some herbal supplements you can take (I can't remember what). And if those don't work, you dr. can give you a prescription. The prescription worked for me, but I still had to supplement about 6oz. of formula everyday.

Not sure if this will help, but I've always had an abundant supply especially when I first started nursing. When talking to a lactation consultant I happened to mention that I had to take metamucil tablets after both of my children were born.

She said there is some evidence just coming out about metamucil increasing milk supply. Recently I have felt that my milk level has dropped and I again started taking 2 fiber tablets a day and I do seem to have more milk.

It might be worth a try. Good Luck I love nursing, but it has not always been easy, especially with my first one:)

Hi, I had a hard time producing milk as well there is a natural supplement (I cant remember the name) that helps with milk production and I also found that drinking more water will also help you produce more milk and evening pumping in between feedings will help.

Hi T.,

All great advice so far. The only thing I can add is, when the same thing was happening to me, I would give my daughter her bath a little early. That way it gave me a little more time to product some extra milk before bedtime.

And everyone says lots of water....I literally drank 6 nalgene bottles of water a day...give or take one. Everyone is different, but on days that I drank less my milk supply was way down. Oh, and if I remember correctly, 6 weeks is a growth spurt. Best of luck!

Hi T.,

I haven't read all of the responses below, so bear with me if I repeat something you've already heard. I breastfed my 2 children from birth to 18 months and have done fairly extensive research on breastfeeding.

1) STOP supplementing with formula/cereal...this will only decrease your milk supply because it is a supply-and-demand system

2) See a lactation consultant or LLL leader to ensure your daughter has proper latch

3) Increase your fluid/nutrition intake and make sure you are getting sufficient rest (take naps with your baby)

4) Only pump AFTER your baby is finished nursing to increase supply. I know it can be alarming to see only 2 oz. in a bottle, but pumping is NOT an accurate measurement of how much milk your body is producing. The baby is much more efficient at drawing milk from your breast than a mechanical pump. (I started pumping when I returned to work when my son was 4 months old and could never "keep up" with his intake while at work, but I nursed him frequently at night/on the weekends and his body naturally readjusted so most of his nutrition intake was with me when I was at home. When I first started pumping - until I was actually missing feedings while I was at work - I would pump 2-3 oz. When I started missing feedings, the amount increased to 9 oz. per session almost immediately).

5) Feed off both breasts to make sure both are getting proper stimulation.

6) Expect that your baby will go through growth spurts. There may be times (2-3 day cycles) where it seems like all you do is feed your baby. By the time she is 3 months old you both should hit your stride with nursing. She'll naturally fall into a rhythm of eating. The first three months are definitely the hardest as you become accustomed to each other and your body adjusts to the demands of feeding an infant.

7) DON'T GIVE UP! I had such a wonderful nursing experience with my first child, but really struggled with my second. I only decided to hang in there because I knew it would get better, and it did. It will get better for you too...just give it a little time and try not to let it stress you. Stress can also inhibit milk production, so relax. :)

Your body will most likely produce no more than an ounce, maybe 2 ounces an hour, if you feed every two - four hours, your not giving your body enough time to replenish your supply. My recommendation is to only feed from your body every six hours, if your baby is hungry inbetween this timeframe, supliment with formula. If baby is not hungry on the sixth hour, pump instead of feeding. A routine of distributing the demand for milk will help teach your body produce. Drink water before your thirsty, and eat, alot. Eat proteins, veggies, fruits, and grains...stay clear of wasted empty carbs, sugars. I am not a doctor, so take my advice as a successful breastfeeding mom, but it worked for me. The first couple of months were rough, but stick with it, your body will learn what your baby needs. If your body just isn't suited to support what your baby demands, than just supply what you can and enjoy the bonding experience.

Your baby may be doing a growth spurt. Try getting a nice big drimk of water and lying down with your baby at noon. Sometimes this will boost an afternoon milk supply. Afternoon is a classic tired mommy time. Hang in there, and enjoy that precious little one. B. B

Keep in mind that at 6 weeks babies are hitting a growth spurt and will nurse harder and more vigorously to actually help to boost the milk supply for this next stage they are entering. Don't supplement, it will defeat the purpose of your baby nursing harder right now. If you need to, put the baby to breast to eat more often...if you are nursing every three hours, change it to every two, or two and a half until the baby begins to seem satisfied. It should only take a few days. Be sure you drink enough water, at least 6-8 glasses each day or your milk supply will drop as well. Good luck!

I breastfed all four of my children and it seems that
they all fed every 2-3 hours the first couple months. I
started to use the medela pump ( best one) and that helped
milk production, but you have to make sure you are also
taking on as much liquids as possible or the milk production will slowly dry up. Stay away from too much caffeine---
It takes time, but it's worth it... When I had the urge
to breastfeed and the babies were sleeping, I just
pumped it out and saved it and when they woke up I let
them breastfeed. Just make sure to alternate each breast
and drink as much fluids as possible. The more you pump or
breastfeed, the more milk you will produce. You just need
make sure to keep it on a schedule as much as possible.
Hope this helps !

Hi T.,
Congratulations on your new precious daughter. You must be on cloud nine right now.
I breastfed my son also (actually until age three).
My first question is are you eating enough and drinking enough water.
In the beginning my son nursed every 90 minutes. It was exhausting. I kept a bottle of water by me all the time expecially when he nursed.
You have know idea how much a small child can drain your body. Drink tons of water and eat a healthy diet.
If you are conerned about loosing baby weight breastfeeding is a great way to get back in shape but you have to eat healthy. ( Believe me you will still loose weight eating a balanced diet).
Also I would try not to pump so much so early. Let nature
take it's course and relax. The most IMPORTANT part of breastfeeding is relaxing. Milk will not flow owtherwise.
And one more thing (I know we mom's can be nags) I would not give cereal this early. She is much to young to process the proteins.
The best advice is to Drink lots of water and just sit down and relax. This is the time in your life when nothing outside your house is important. Just you and baby adjusting.
Best of luck and tons of good wishes.
(Also if breastfeeding doesn't work out then don't let anyone make you feel bad about using formula. You are doing a great job. What ever works breast feeding or formula is just fine).
This is your time to do things your way the way your mommy intuition tells you.

Please contact a lactation consultant if you want success. It is important to find out the reason that your production may be low, in order to correct the problem. Getting advice is great, but how will you know which advice to follow? You can contact a lactaion consultant where you delivered, or if you know someone who is certified that's great too. I wish you much success.

Hi T.,

I had the same problem when I first nursed and it was reccomended that I use fenegreek (not sure if spelled right) supplement designed to increase milk flow.

This worked great for me. Just what I needed.

This is an all natural herbal type supplement, check local health food stores, but at the time I ordered mine from the internet. There is also another one I was told to try but I cant remember the name, sorry.

If you need help searching for it, I will help, just let me know.

T.

Do not supplement... Breast milk is supply and demand.. if the baby wants more she will nurse more and you will make more milk. Six weeks is the peak of fussy babies.. This is when "colic" starts.. My daughter fussed alot at 6 weeks... I really doubt that she needs more food.. It could be that she overate and has a tummy ache..

YOu can take fenugreek to increase supply.. I took it.. It did seem to upset my tummy a bit so start with a low dose...

I really doubt that you have a supply problem.. Six week old babies just cry.. it is normal. this too shall pass.

Babies have a growth spurt at 6 weeks. My son had similar fussy periods at the breast. I am able to pump about 5 oz and I know my son is eating more than that based on weight gain. I agree with the PP who said that pumping is NOT as efficient as nursing, especially if your body is not used to letting down to a mechanical pump. The smell and sound of your own baby will produce the chemical oxytocin which will stimulate your let down.

You sound like such a wonderful mother and I can tell you want the best for your baby. While formula and cereal may seem like a good option many pediatricians don't recommend starting solids, like cereal, at 6 months. Your daughter's digestive tract needs time to fully develop before her body is put to the task of digesting more difficult foods. Also, formula does not digest as easily as breast milk so curds of formula sit in her stomach and stretch it out.

Your body does not require a set amount of "down time". I have a few friends who tandem nurse and it seems like they're always nursing and they still have milk. Your body is made to provide for your baby. Just as you're determined and able to give your baby your best, so is your body!

It is simple supply and demand, but it may take a few days for your supply to catch up to her need. No worries. It will. Nurse her on demand. Put her to the breast as often as she will nurse, and you'll produce enough milk. Unless there's a major weight issue, you don't need to supplement with formula, and it's way too early for cereal. The main thing, of course, is to make sure she gets enough to eat so she can grow but a couple of days of lag time isn't a big deal. 6 weeks is often a growth spurt stage, and a lot of babies demand more at this age, but your supply will catch up if you're not supplementing. Supplementing will work against your body's signals. Don't know why you're bothering with pumping and measuring. Just let your body do the work, rest & get plenty of water and food, and relax! Babies go through these times. If her weight is good, she'll suck enough to signal your body to make more milk soon enough. There's a lot of information on the La Leche League website - www.llli.org then click on Resources then on Answers. I'd strongly suggest their main book as well - THE WOMANLY ART OF BREASTFEEDING - about $18 at most large bookstores. If they're out, they'll order it for you. Hang in there, Mama!

Trust me, not everyone is a pumper... :-) I nursed all 3 of mine and never could get more than a few ounces out with the pump.
I would suggest stopping the suplementation and taking the time to sit with her until she's done. Babys all nurse at different rates. Our first was a 15 min drinker... Our 3rd would have been happy to sip for HOURS!!! :-)
Health food stores sell a tea that is called Mothers Milk. It can help increase your milk supply naturally. Also, eating oatmeal and tapioca help to FORTIFY your milk so what she gets has more of the needed nutrients in it.
Keep nursing to stimulate more production... Drink TONS of fluid and rest often.
Babys go thru a growth spurt at around every 6 weeks... She is in prime growin time and her fussiness is her way of saying Momma hook me up so i can increase your supply!!! :-)
Listen to her and relax. Keep an eye on her weight at check ups and make sure that there is a gaining pattern.
Congrats and good luck!!

T. ~
Deffinitely relaxing can be a big part of it. If you're going to pump, do it after a feeding, that might help your milk supply to increase. Also, there are herbs you can take that can help. Call your hospital and ask for the lactation consultant. She will know alot of tricks to help. You also may want to look online for La Leche League.
Good Luck!
D.

You also need to understand that with breast milk it is not about volume so much as it is about content. That two ounces can contain enough nutrients for your baby.
The only other thing I would suggest is drink lots of water to keep hydrated and feed a 15 mins to half hour earlier to increase milk supply.
I have an AWESOME lactation consultant who can work miracles for tips on breast feeding. Let me know if you want the number.

i wouldn't get more than 2 oz. when i pumped. some women don't produce a lot of milk while pumping, but produce plenty for your dtr while she's nursing. if your dtr is gaining weight/spitting up after she feeds, then she is getting plenty of breastmilk. it's not necessary for your boobs to be exploding or for you to produce 8 oz of milk while you pump, i used to think that.
they do make a tea called mother's milk, they carry it at zerbo's (sp?), and places like that. it helped when i thought i wasn't producing a lot of milk, but turns out that my body had adjusted to the amount that my dtr needed. i would drink it about once a week just to make sure :)...lol.
i hope you enjoy every second w/your dtr b/c the time does fly by. i swear i blinked and now she's 16 months...
if you need more info, check online or i personally like the dr.sears "baby book". it helped me out too.
hope this helps...

Drink a gallon of water a day. I just got a gallon jug from the store and then just kept filling it up. Make sure that it is gone at the end of every day. I had the same problem at about 5 weeks and my cousin told me to do this and I had no problems after I started this. Hope this helps!
K.

A few things to consider:

1. Babies go through a growth spurt at 6 weeks (3 wks, 6 wks, 3 mos, 6 mos), so she may need more right now. Your body will catch up soon - if you only breastfeed. If you supplement with formula or cereal, your body may never catch up.

2. When you pump, your body doesn't produce as much milk as when the baby naturally stimulates you through breastfeeding. so pumping still is not going to give you an accurate guage. The only way to gauge is to weigh the baby before eating and weigh her again after eating. You would need a baby scale to do this. They did this with me in the hospital.

3. The best natural way to increase your milk supply (besides only feeding your baby 100% breastmilk) - is to DRINK WATER!! You should try to drink 3 quarts of plain water a day.

i have breastfed both my girls over a year, and learned that what you pump out is not an amount of what your baby eats. when you supplement with formula you are losing out on a feeding, your milk will slow down doing that. there were days i would feed my second daughter every hour and a half, yours might be going through a growth spurt. when my milk got low every morning before my baby would wake up i would pump and then an hour later when she got up i would feed her, there was always enough, her fussiness might be gas, or a burp that won't come up. don't be discoureged it is the best thing for your baby, good luck

My experiences with pumping were disappointing. My body responded differently to the pump than the baby. I could never pump as much as either of my kids wanted. When I breast fed exclusively my body was able to increase production.

Good Luck on finding a solution that works for you. Stick with it as long as you can, it's best for you and the baby. You're doing the right thing by asking for help. I know it's hard when you worry, but try not to stress. Stress will lower your production. Relax, say a prayer, and let God and your body do the rest.

God bless.

Hi T.,

My suggestion is to get in touch with a La Leche League Leader or LC. There's so much that can be done to help build up the supply. There are herbs that boost supply and there are things you can do to help build it up just by changing the feeding schedule. Best of luck, S., IBCLC, RLC, LLLL

You've gotten a lot of great advice, I just wanted to add that caffeine can reduce your milk supply. Good luck!

Hi T.!

You have goten some great advice so I am probably repeating, but here goes! :)

I know that when I had a sore throat once when I was nursing my son and was drinking alot more water because it soothed my throat it increased my production. MAke sure you ar drinking alot

Also, watch out for adding the cereal. I have read that inroduction too soon can lead to increased allergies.

Make sure you try to feed every 3 hours, whether she is awake or not. THis should increase your supply.

Don't hesitate to contact your pediatrition. Mine was a great help because she really supported breastfeeding.

I had to supplement with formula for a few days because my milk was slow to come in. My ped. told me to be sure to breast feed first, and THEN let him have some of the bottle. This way my body would still get stimulated.

Good luck! Keep us updated!

STOP PUMPING!

Your body will make enough milk your baby if left alone. Although many mothers claim not to produce enough milk, in reality it is a very small percentage that actually have trouble with supply and many are helped through herbs such as Fenugreek or a prescription from their doctors.

Please visit www.kellymom.com. It is a life saver. First off, your baby is much better able to draw the milk out from your breasts than any pump, so the quantity you pump is not an accurate measure of what you are producing. You should never judge your supply that way.

Second, a baby who is accustomed to nursing will drink far more from a bottle than they would at the breast. It is because the flow is much faster and easier than what they are used to. Many babies will overeat at the bottle and then spit up, as my son did when I was at work.

Also, consider this. Most babies hit a growth spurt at about 6 weeks. If you are pumping instead of nursing, your body is going to fall behind her consumption. A nursing baby will nurse longer/more frequently at a growth spurt and your breasts would automatically take that cue to increase production. Obviously, if you are pumping and trying to feed your child at set intervals instead of on demand, it isn't going to work.

I didn't see whether you were a SAHM or returning to work soon. If you are at home, I would seriously toss the bottles for now and stick with nursing. If your baby is gaining weight and thriving, and you are nursing on demand, that is all the evidence you need that he/she is getting enough milk.

If you are returning to work soon, I would stick with nursing on demand and pumping after feeds or first thing in the morning when your body tends to have the most milk.

I worked full time from the time my son was 8wks and pumped at work three times a day for over a year. It can be done, but pumping is hard work and can be very difficult. I never got more than 4 oz in a pumping session and it was so daunting. But I made it. If I hadn't needed to work, though, I never would have pumped. I think pumping confuses people and tells them they are not producing enough when they really are!

EDIT: Find your local La Leche League meetings. Those ladies are trained and so helpful! AND FREE! Lactation consultants charge upwards of $80/hour for the same service.

T.,
I know you have gotten a lot of advice so I will make this as short as I can. When I had my daughter about a year ago my milk never came in. I had some, but not a lot. Here's what the consultant told me to do.

-take Fenegreek and Blessed Thistle but not according to the bottle. Instead take 3 capsules of EACH 3 times a day. A ton I know, but it works. I bought mine at Better Health.

-feed your baby often. Every 2 hours or so. The baby latching on is what signals your body to produce milk. Pumping will usually not give you an accurate picture of how much you produce. Your baby can get more out than the pump can. Also feed longer than the 15 minutes or so that they tell you.

-be committed for 2 weeks or so. That is how long it will take, but it will work. My daughter is 13 months and still breastfeeding quite often.

I know people have mentioned this, but don't do the cereal thing. Besides choking, your baby's body just isn't ready to digest anything but breastmilk or formula.

Hope this helps.
S.

You've got lots of great advice here, so I won't carry on.
Good luck to you and hang in there!! I know it's a challenge, but you're doing great and it is so good for your child!

Here are a couple of quick tips:
** Don't mix cereal in a bottle. She could aspirate it into her lungs causing serious respiratory problems (even long-tem damage).
** Feed on demand. I know it's frustrating, but her body tells her when it's time to eat and your body answers the call. It's what we're made to do ;)
** Drink lots of water and milk. This alone can make all the difference!
** Get plenty of rest. I know it's a challenge, but you have to take care of your body, too. Schedule yourself a little down time. When she naps, you should too.
** Try Fenugreek (an herbal supplement available at many grocers or drug stores). I did try it and it did make a difference.
** Most importantly... Don't stress. Breastfeeding is hard work and you have to give yourself a lot of credit for sticking with it. Cut yourself some slack and do the best that you can do. Your body will do the rest and the less pressure you put on yourself, the easier it will become.

Some advice I was given when I was having a hard time keeping up:
** Pump every two to three hours to increase supply. Breatfeeding is the ultimate supply and demand arrangement. The more you need, the more you get. Make sure you are using a high quality pump. I would have to believe that feeding frequently would stimulate the same need (or demand) and would be easier because your daughter is right there, not a machine.
** Contact a lactation consultant or Breatfeeding Support Group for any additional information or support.

All the best to you and congratulations!

Hi T.,
Congrats on breastfeeding!!! I know that tapioca pudding (natural not the real sugared up stuff) is good for milk. There are also teas you can get at health foods stores called Mothers Milk. Find a La Leche League group in your area by going to www.llli.org. Very supportive and helpful women and very knowledgeable. I know you have been trying anything to help you baby, but she might be a little young for cereal. The longer you wait with babies to introduce solids, the better. They have less chance of developing allergies. Consult The Baby Book by Dr. Sears for more info about this topic.

Good Luck
J.

There have been a lot of great suggestions here! I just wanted to add, make sure you're nursing during the night. From 2am-6am are the prime milk producing hours. Even if you just nurse 2x during the night you'll increase your supply.

I highly recommend getting in touch with some other breastfeeding moms in your area! I know there are a few and you might be able to get ahold of them if you go to the Mothering.com discussion boards. Go to the "Finding your Tribe" area and click on the Indiana, Ohio, and Michigan tribe. There are a few moms in St. Claire County that you could possibly meet or that could direct you to a La Leche League or IBCLC close by.

Congratulations on your precious baby girl and keep up the good work!

If you just keep bringing the baby to your breast and stop giving cereal and formula your body should start making enough milk. Giving the baby other foods will fill her up and she won't nurse as long as she should to increase your supply. Little babies nurse often. Drink, rest when you can, eat oatmeal, oatmeal cookies are a great snack. Don't diet, nursing requires a lot of calories. Relax as long as your baby is filling enough diapers.

Hello T.,
As far as I know, many people swear by fenugreek and blessed thistle. You can get both at the Vitamin Shoppe (blessed thistle is very hard to find). You have to take three of each pill three times a day. I was having supply issues as well and they worked for me, just not as well as I had hoped. I also know that some doctors will prescribe Reglan (sp?) and that is supposed to increase supply. I know two women who have tried it and it doubled thier supply. I know first hand how frustrating your situation is and I hope everything works out. Good Luck!!

I haven't read all of your amazing responses below so I might be repeating something, but... Drinking tea or n/a beer helps produce more milk...but be careful of the type of tea - peppermint, green and sage dry you up. Another way to help ensure good milk supply is actually to avoid supplemental feedings. This makes your baby not want to nurse as long (or work as hard) and that will inturn reduce your production from lack of stimulation. A baby given supplement will always drink more, hungry or not. So that isn't a good indicator. Also I firmly believe that the pump can not extract like your baby can, so it's very possible that she's getting more than what you are pumping. How often are you nursing?? For how long?? Are you switching breasts?? I would nurse on one side only at each feeding to ensure that she got the hind-milk. It's the fattiest and the most satisfying.
A very helpful book for me was: The Nursing Mother's Companion by Kathleen Huggins

T.

I recently went through that with my 3month old. Is your daughter gaining plenty of weight? If she is then she is getting enough. A couple of things --- rent one of the hospital's electric pump they are the best, 2nd take Blessed thistle and fenugreek these are 2 very safe natural herbs that increase your supply - take 3 of each(6 total) 3 times a day for the first week. then take 2 of each (4) three times a day the second week. By the way this is my 3rd baby And this is the first one I had struggles with. Another awsome source call the Lactation center at Bronson Hospital. YOu can go in there and they will make sure she is getting enough. They will tell you to bring her hungry, They will weigh her, have you feed her from one side then weigh her again, and with one last weight. And most likely they are going to tell you that she is comfort nursing. This is the time when a nuk comes in very handy. Because she will have the need for a long time to suck. She may just be looking for that

M.

One last thing Drinks lots of water atleast 32 oz every time you nurse. So everytime you sit down to nurse her you should dring 32 oz of water, juice or some thing that keeps you hydrated-- no pop, coffee or tea. you don't want her getting to much caffeen

I just want to echo some of the other comments. Rest, plenty of fluids, and some of the books are great advice you've already gotten. Especially the nursing on demand as that is really going to be the best way to increase your milk supply to meet your daughters needs. Don't worry about the clock and the last feeding, etc. So often we feel like we aren't producing enough and what I've learned is to trust your baby and body. Breastfeeding is incredibly demanding those first couple of months! I encourage you to keep going and try giving your body some time to catch up!

Hi T. -

I found that my milk supply started to decrease when I began feeding my son solid food. In order to keep my supply up, I began to nurse or express milk every two hours (except for bedtime) and I drank more water. That seemed to do the trick for me. Also, are you taking prenatal vitamins? You can still take them after birth if you're lactating. I was able to breastfeed my son for a year (well, he'll be a year in a couple of weeks - we're in the process of weaning).

Hope this helps!

Hi Tracey,

You've received lots of good advice. Adequate good quality water intake being one of the first things to do.

I have some excellent material for moms in your situation that I would be happy to share...CDs and articles. Would you like them?
Best Wishes,
M.

Wow, you've gotten a ton of responses! The only thing I would add is also keep in mind that how much you pump is not always the same amount your child is eating. My son was HUGE and there were always times that I felt I could not keep up with him that typically lasted for about a week or two, around growth spurt time. Add some water/liquids to your diet and let her nurse as often as she wants. Its typically about every two or three hours when they are trying to up your supply.

Good luck!

I have heard that there are herbal suplements to increase milk supply but never tried them as I had plenty. You can always ask you doctor or a Breast feeding consultant from the hospital with any questions. They are very helpful.

You're getting great advice! I would also suggest Baby Beloved. The website is: www.babybeloved.com for more info. They just moved downtown to the woman's health center. It's a great resource for lactation consults, weekly support group, and they have a scale that measure to a tenth of an ounce- so you can pre and post feed weigh to see what's really going on! Good luck!

I agree with the other mom's responses. I noticed an improvement in my pumping if I drank water while I was pumping. Also, add a lot of real oatmeal to your diet. It helps.
If you like tea, get some Mother's Milk Tea from any health store, Kroger, Trader Joe's. It is around $4.00 a box for 16 bags. It encourages milk production.
Remember pumping is not a actual measure of what the baby gets.
Good luck.

I see that you have received a lot of wonderful advice. I just wanted to say way to go on breastfeeding your daughter! It will get easier. I'm breastfeeding my first child and at 17 1/2 months she is still going strong. The first couple months are tough but it is SO worth it. You can do it! Just listen to the wonderful advice others have posted.

Hi T., Keep up a good supply of fluids to drink for yourself. Everytime you set down to nurse, make sure you have something to drink. Drinking a 1/2 can of beer daily will help to increase you supply. The brewers yeast is what actually helps so if you don't like beer you could purchase the yeast and add to foods. One thing to remember is that when you pump your breast you are only obtaining 40% of the milk whereas a baby can completely empty a breast in about 10-12 minutes of vigorous nursing. Good luck and don't give up. If you have to supplement a little go ahead, just always offer the breast first. M.

I'm sucessfully breastfeeding my 2nd child and found out that diet and hydration are very important for producing milk. It seems crazy but if you eat smaller meals more times a day and drink lots and lots of water it helps. You could also try just letting the hot water from a shower run on your breasts for awhile, that sometimes helps too.

Pumping does not provide the same stimulation as the baby can. What you pump does not necessarily show how much milk you're making - in fact it's usually significantly less. Don't go by what you pump and only pump when you can't directly feed. Put that baby to the breast as often and as long as possible. Your milk production is a "supply as demanded" type of situation. If your baby sucks more, more will be made. She's probably going through a growth spurt which is why she needs more than you make - but DON'T SUPPLEMENT. That will make your production go DOWN. It may take a day to 3 days for your supply to catch up, but it will - I promise.

The best thing to do is read this site http://www.kellymom.com/bf/supply/index.html. There is all sorts of information on there about everything you can think of about breastfeeding.

BTW - oatmeal does help but in my experience - REAL oatmeal works WAY better than the quick-oats or the pre-packaged stuff.

Also - these cookies - they ROCK!! Make 2 batches - I'm telling you. You won't be able to stop eating them! http://community.livejournal.com/breastfeeding/2288837.html

Wow, this brings back memories of my first child. T., I would suggest that no matter what you do don't get frustrated and give up. First and foremost, drink plenty of fluids. During the day, make sure you keep maybe a 20 oz. cup of either water or juice by your side at all times. Keeping fluids at your bed side is also best. Drinking plenty of fluids helps build up your milk supply. Pumping in between feeding times may also help, at least until your supply is where you want it to be. Try and make sure you feed her from each breast for the same amount of time. If not, then one breast will produce more than the other which can also cause problems with your supply.

Unfortunately, supplementing with formula or a tablespoon or so of cereal may just be what she needs. Sometimes, the baby just needs a little more bulk to satisfy them. Believe me being a mother of 4 breastfed children, each experience was a little different. Good luck on everything! Just remember patience is all you need. Both you and the baby will come to an agreement and everyone will be satisfied.

Breastfeeding is a supply and demand circle. Any supplementing will interfere with that balance. At 6 weeks, babies go through a big "grow". Typically your milk supply is not established for the demand until 6 weeks anyway. Pumping does not create the same stimulation as a hungry baby at the breast and will not produce the same amount of milk. I would stop ANY supplementing, relax, and nurse her whenever she is hungry. For such a young baby that could very well be more than every 4 hours...more like every 3or even less. The nursing on demand is very important, make sure you are getting enough water and good food and it will all work out. Good going on being persistent!! You could also go to the Le Leche League website and find a local Le Leche League leader who could help you over the phone. "The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding" is a wonderful book especially for breastfeeding moms. It was my nursing "bible" through 3 wonderful little girls. Keep up the good work!

pump often [every 2 hrs during the day] and drink plenty of water

First of all, way to go for sticking with it! Do everything that you can, as nursing is the best thing for both you and your daughter! That said, you want to make sure that she's getting everything she needs. When you pump, you actually don't get as much as if it were your daughter feeding. My oldest ate every 2 hours forever...like a few months. He was a huge eater. Is she gaining weight? Or at least not losing? That is the best indication of if she is getting enough. I never supplemented, so I cannot comment on that. I have 3 kids...5 yr old, 3 yr old, 1 yr old, and they all nursed till 1 year. I would stick with the basics. Don't just rely on what you are getting when pumping. Your milk supply should be fairly well established. Make sure you are drinking enough fluids, as this is one of the most important keys to maintaining milk supply!! In addition, keep offering your daughter your breast at every feeding. I never did the 10 minutes on each side thing, I just offered them the first side, when they finished with that side, I offered the other. Then, I started them at the next feeding on the side they ended on. Keep with it! It's exhausting, but totally worthwhile! She may be going through a growth spurt, so keep trying to maintain the supply you have. Good luck!

Pump after you feed her to get your supply up, also Fenugreek is a natural herb that helps increase milk supply. Drink lots and lots of water and make sure you are eating (sometimes new mommies forget to eat!). Relax and good luck.

My doctor always told me to make sure you are drinking plenty of water(at least 10 8oz glasses a day) and eating at least 500 extra calories a day. If you're not that could be why your supply is down. Your body is going to provide for you before the baby and if you aren't getting enough food/water in your baby isn't going to get enough.
Good luck!

First of all, I just read Mitzi's response and she has some GREAT suggestions :)
Now here's what I wrote:
Congratulations! May your sweet daughter be a blessing in your home.
Pumping doesn't actually guage breastmilk production. It may give you an approximate, but a baby's mouth stimulates more production even if you are "done." Which means you could pump all you could get and still be able to nurse. I had all this explained to me with our first. If your production really is low, check with your doctor and they can (or at least used to/within the past couple of years) offer you prescription to increase supply. Also connect with lactation consultation nurses--they have some of the best advice and suggestions. If you contacted the Kent County Health Nurse Department (on Fuller) they have lactation consultants who will come to your home free of charge. And I don't know where you live but here is one very good support group.
Breastfeeding Support
Healthier Communities (part of Spectrum Butterworth Hospital)
320 Michigan St.
Thursdays 12:30-2:00 p.m.
FREE
Lactation Counselors: Kathy & Mary
You'd have to check if the place and time is the same. This was a couple years ago.
Otherwise, what Mitzi said is true: Milk only flows when you relax (another thing that was particularly true with my first!), and you need to be rested and drink lots of fluids. I always had water beside me, too.
Best of luck! M.