How To Use Fenugreek Seeds to Increase Milk Supply
Fenugreek has been taken by many women as a galactagogue.Lactation in humans and animals is promoted by a substance called a galactagogue.Even though there is only anecdotal evidence of its help in lactation, people still write for and against it.Fenugreek seeds can be used to create more milk for your baby.
Step 1: Check to see if you are producing enough milk.
Women produce enough for their babies.Breastfeeding and the way it feels can change over time.If you think that your supply is low, you are responding to some of the changes your body goes through as it becomes more used to breastfeeding.If you leaked a lot of milk in the beginning and now don't, this is not a decrease in milk supply, it's just your body regulating how much milk you give your baby.
Step 2: Track your baby's weight.
The easiest way to tell if your baby needs more milk is to use this method.Babies typically weigh an ounce more each day from birth to three months and then about a half ounce from 3-6 months.You are probably fine if the babies weigh within a normal range.
Step 3: Ask your doctor about it.
Mothers usually produce enough milk for one baby.After a few weeks following your baby's birth, your milk supply will start to regulate itself.Sometimes that doesn't happen.You might have to start pumping milk when you return to work.
Step 4: If you have twins or triplets, talk to a lactation consultant.
It can be hard for a mother of multiples to keep up with nursing two or more babies.Some mothers take Fenugreek because of low milk production.
Step 5: Discuss the medical reasons for low milk supply with your doctor.
Problems with milk supply can be faced by women with fertility issues.Environmental toxins can be culprits.Low milk problems are reported by women who have had breast cancer or breast surgery.Not draining the breasts becomes an issue for some women.The breasts need to be emptied of milk frequently so that they can be full again.
Step 6: Ask your consultant about it.
Both sides have strong opinions about its effectiveness.There is only anecdotal evidence to support the claims that it can increase milk production.Ask your OB/GYN for advice if you are still unsure after talking to your lactation consultant.
Step 7: If you think it's a good choice, take it.
It can be found in vitamins and health food stores as a powder in pill form.It's much easier to find it in pill form if you choose to take the seeds.3 times a day is the recommended dose.Some women report an increase in milk supply after taking it.You should stop taking the pills once you reach a point where you have enough milk.
Step 8: You should be aware of any side effects.
When mothers stop taking the pills their urine or sweat smells like maple syrup.When the pills are stopped, there will be more serious side effects.Fenugreek can cause problems for women with diabetes, asthma, and other conditions.
Step 9: If you are pregnant, don't take fenugreek.
Fenugreek can cause preterm labor.Don't take fenugreek if you think you may become pregnant.
Step 10: You should sleep as much as you can.
If you can, try to nap when you're tired, even though life with an infant often doesn't allow for long stretches of sleep.Being well rested helps keep you supplied.
Step 11: Drink water.
64 ounces a day minimum is a good starting point.You need to replenish yourself after nursing depletes your body of liquids.
Step 12: It's a good idea to eat healthy.
You might find that you need more.This is not unusual.It takes 20 calories for one ounce of milk to be fed to an infant.Depending on how much your baby eats, you will burn between 400 and 600 calories daily.Don't shy away from good fats like nuts and avocados if you want to eat fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and fish.
Step 13: Breastfeed more frequently.
Feeding your baby more frequently is one of the easiest ways to increase milk supply.Try every hour or hour and a half instead of every 2.5 to 3 hours.
Step 14: You can choose formula for your baby.
If nothing else seems to be working, your baby can get the food he or she needs in formula.Breastfeeding can be good for the mother in baby in the right conditions, but it doesn't always work for everyone.