This post is a bit different than what I usually share, but I think it’s an important topic. I hope you find it helpful.
I wasn’t blessed with a significant milk supply. It sounds so silly, but I work hard to make sure that I’m able to nurse, pump to keep milk in the fridge and pump to freeze. After several weeks, I return to a job outside of the home, and my sweet girl will start daycare. At daycare, I want to make sure they have more than enough. At home, I want to make sure her dad and sister get the chance to feed her when they want or when I ask. I did more research and reading this time around on ways to boost your milk supply, and I think I’ve found a plan that works for me. I’m by no means an expert in this field. No way. I will leave that to the lactation consultants (which are great if you need them!!). But I’m going to share a few things I’ve added to my plan in hopes that it helps in your journey.
1. Don’t give up.
Please don’t believe the articles that say “oh, breastfeeding shouldn’t hurt”. FALSE. I’m a believer that it can HURT the first two weeks, even if you have the latch correct. Why shouldn’t it hurt? It’s a different, CONSTANT sensation and irritation that is brand new to your skin. I say if it hurts at first, keep going. It will get easier. If after two weeks your toes are still curling when your little one latches, seek help from a lactation consultant.
2. Mother’s Milk Tea + water
I enjoy mother’s milk tea so much. If you’re used to having a cup of coffee in the morning, this isn’t the greatest substitute, but it’s worth it. Maybe try adding this into your drink schedule and have a cup of coffee mid-morning or evening. And keep up with the water. When in doubt, just drink another glass. 🙂
3. Lactation cookies
This recipe has the good stuff that promote lactation: brewer’s yeast, flax seed, coconut oil, oats. The brewer’s yeast is the heavy hitter. We bought our yeast on Amazon, and I add closer to 6 tablespoons in this recipe. Bonus: the cookies are seriously so delicious. I make them smaller so they are closer to bite-size and enjoy two or so when I’m getting hungry during nursing (or anytime, really).
4. Feed on demand during maternity leave.
This is one of the most helpful things for us. We don’t worry about her eating schedule. When she is hungry, I nurse her until she is satisfied. Bottles are reserved only for specific occasions or before nighttime (which is a reason why I think she’s a good sleeper for us). The only schedule put in place is a bedtime routine, and that seems to be working well.
These are just a few things that are working well for us. Seriously though, if you’re thinking about adding one thing, the cookies are just amazing. DO IT. 🙂
