Many new moms worry about having enough milk supply for their baby.
Here are 5 reasons you may have a low milk supply.
C-section delivery: Compared to a vaginal delivery, there can be a delay in skin-to-skin contact with the breast after the c-section. This can delay milk supply because the baby is not latching or stimulating the breast to produce milk. Without the stimulation, no milk production.
Retained placenta: A drop in estrogen and progesterone trigger a rise in prolactin, the hormone responsible for producing breast milk. This naturally happens after the placenta is delivered. However, if the placenta is retained in the uterus after the delivery of your baby, the body stills thinks you are pregnant. So, prolactin levels will no rise, delaying breast milk production.
Lack of nipple/breast stimulation: The baby's latch is what stimulates the breast to produce milk. In order to produce milk, the body has to know that it has to. This is what the baby is for. Within the first 24-48 hours postpartum, maximize the amount of stimulation and feeding to the breast. This will help boost your milk supply.
Supplementation: Some moms start formula or supplementation too early if the baby is having difficulty latching or finding out they aren't producing enough milk. With supplementation, there is nothing telling the body you need milk. The baby's latch and suction is what stimulates milk production.
Induction: If you've been induced, you were likely given Pitocin. Pitocin is a medication that imitates natural labor and birth by causing the uterus to contract. Pitocin that is administered at high doses can lead to breast engorgement. This can interfere with the baby's ability to latch adequately on the breast.
Struggling with breastfeeding? Have blocked milk ducts? Book an appointment with me to support your breastfeeding journey.
Looking for a lactation consultant? Check out Kelly Ryan from Milk Made. She is a wonderful lactation consultant, providing both prenatal and postpartum services!
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