Low Milk Supply & Increasing Production

Factors that contribute to low milk supply:

1. Not getting enough sucking stimulation. This can also be caused by a baby who is sucking weakly.

2. Being seperated from your baby.

3. Limiting the amount of time at the breast. Newborns should nurse 20-45 min.

4. If mom is ill or under a lot of stress.

5. Using formula supplements or a pacifier regularly. Don't use pacifiers as a substitute for nutritive sucking.

6. Taking combination birth control pills.

Increasing Breast Milk Production:

1. Take care of yourself. Eat well and drink enough fluids (6-8 glasses a day). Don't diet while nursing. You need a minimum of 1800 calories each day.

2. Nurse frequently for as long as your baby will nurse. Try to get a minimum of 8 feedings in 24 hours.

3. Offer both breasts at each feeding. Try "switch nursing".

Resource: breastfeedingbasics.com (Find the whole article here.)