|
One of the first assessments when evaluating low milk supply is to objectively ascertain how much milk is being transferred from the breast at each breastfeeding. This is best done with a before nursing and after nursing naked weight utilizing a sophisticated scale such as a BabyWeigh Scale (medela). A Certified Lactation Consultant would evaluate your baby's weight gain and and the baby's nursing technique.
Breastmilk production is based upon supply and demand at the breast. Depending on the age of the infant, the nursing mother should be breastfeeding and/or pumping 8-12 times in a 24 hour period. In addition to the stimulation at the breast, the breastfeeding mother benefits from the use of galactogues. Galactogues are most commonly organic herbs that are known to increase milk supply. They come in the form of tinctures or in capsules. Two well known glactogues are fenugreek and goats rue.
Please feel free to stop by Becoming Mothers in the Village Shopping Center (303-546-MAMA) to weigh your baby. Lactation consultations can be scheduled at Becoming Mothers or at your home. The galactogues mentioned above can also be purchased at Becoming Mothers.
Stephanie Moore, RN, BSN, IBCLC
Owner
Becoming Mothers
Boulder, Colorado
|