Breast Feeding

Leah - posted on 11/01/2008

Hi, my son Benjamin was born April 4th 08! I've exclusively breast fed him. He started solids at six months and has turned into a great eater. I pump at work once in the morning and in the afternoon and visit him at lunch time to nurse him. In addition to letting him nurse whenever he wants and pumping, I've been taking the herb fenugreek and blessed thistle for a few months (3 capsules each, 3 times a day). It has really helped keep my production up and I've had no adverse side effects in myself or my son. I've also used Brewers Yeast tablets to help with my low energy level. I've been ordering these herbs from Drugstore.com. At six months I too felt like my milk was decreasing but I also felt physically drained and worn out--had lost a lot of weight. So for me it was important to examine my diet--make sure I was getting three square meals, getting as much rest as I can, and using the herbs. Stress, diet, and lack of sleep affect my production so I try to pay attention to these things. Nurse her as much as possible, try feeding her solids after nursing, but also take care of yourself. You can try the herbs. They are recommended in many nursing books and by lactation nurses.

Melissa - posted on 11/01/2008

My daughter was born on April 5th too! I am also exclusively breast feeding. A couple of things I'd recommend: Pump between feedings. I just bought a Lansinoh Double Electric Pump and I've already seen my milk supply increase a lot. I was using a Medela Swing (its a single electric) and feel bad about wasting my time and money on it!
Also, add some Brewer's Yeast to your food or drink. You can find it in the organic section of your grocery store. Or you can get it in a good dark or brown ale beer!

Pam - posted on 10/31/2008

The only thing I know of for sure is that the more your baby nurses, the more milk you produce. Along that line, you could try pumping between feedings to encourage your body to produce more milk. Have you started feeding solids yet? If your daughter is still hungry, it might be that she needs supplemental feedings of solid food in addition to her regular breastfeedings. I would also contact a lactation consultant or La Leche League leader for other suggestions to up your milk supply.