Breastfeeding is increasingly favored by mothers. However, while many mothers are interested in breastfeeding, they do not have enough breast milk. Not having enough breast milk on their own is not enough for the baby. So, what are the reasons for the lack of breast milk in breastfeeding mothers? What should I do if I don't have enough breast milk? Let me take a look.

Causes of insufficient breast milk

Breast milk is the perfect food for babies. However, many mothers face the problem of insufficient breast milk, which makes new parents feel anxious. do not panic! Let's see how to deal with it.

Reason 1: The mother breastfeeds too few times. Not breastfeeding for a long time or prolonging the breastfeeding interval is not only detrimental to the secretion of milk, but also leads to insufficient breast milk.

Reason 2: Improper feeding. The newborn does not suck the breast as soon as possible after birth, and does not breastfeed on demand; the separation of mother and baby, the use of bottle feeding creates a "nipple illusion", which makes the newborn unwilling to suck breast milk; the mother is reluctant to let the newborn suck because of nipple pain Other factors can lead to insufficient breast milk.

Reason 3: The baby's sucking position is incorrect. Improper sucking position of the baby will cause the baby not to express milk and will not stimulate the lactation reflex.

Reason 4: Mom lacks confidence and enthusiasm. At this time, the mother should be given psychological support and informed about the correct feeding method. Problems like this can usually be avoided if the mother and baby are in the same room as soon as possible after delivery.

Reason 5: The mother was malnourished and did not rest well. Mothers with malnutrition and poor rest are not conducive to the lactation reflex, and the quality of milk will also be affected.

Reason 6: Maternal breast dysplasia. Breast dysplasia, breast surgery, sunken nipples, re-pregnancy, maternal hypothyroidism, etc., can reduce milk secretion, resulting in insufficient breast milk.

Reason 7: Insufficient milk may be caused by disease or taking drugs that affect milk secretion, or residual placenta, which can lead to insufficient breast milk.

What to do if breast milk is insufficient

Breast milk is the golden food for babies and cannot be replaced by any other food, but some new mothers have the problem of insufficient milk. How can this be good? What if I don't have enough breast milk? Let's find out together.

1. Let the child suck the nipple: After the child is born, let the child suck the nipple frequently to stimulate the breast to secrete milk. The less milk a mother has, the more you need to increase the number of times your baby sucks. Generally speaking, mothers should breastfeed at least 8 times every 24 hours, and each pumping time should not be less than half an hour. Of course, it still depends on the baby's needs. Feed your baby when he's hungry, and the more he feeds, the more milk he makes.

2. Don't add milk powder casually: A few days ago, the secretion of milk was not too much, but after four or five days, a large amount of milk will be secreted. So don't be discouraged by the lack of milk in the first few days. Do not add milk powder casually. During the first week, try not to supplement milk powder casually, even if you have very little breast milk. Because once the child eats milk powder, the suction will become weaker, and the mother's milk will naturally become less and less.

3. Appropriate massage: Dip a clean towel in warm water, wipe in a circular motion from the center of the nipple to the areola, alternately apply heat on both sides, each side for 15 minutes, the massage method is as follows: massage in circular motions—put on both hands Under the breast, massage the entire breast in a circular motion; Spiral massage - hold the breast with one hand, and massage the index finger and middle finger of the other hand in a spiral toward the nipple; Shiatsu massage - open both hands on the breast On both sides, squeeze from the breast to the nipple.

4. Strengthen nutrition and have a balanced diet: Ensure adequate nutrition. For moms, eat foods rich in protein and various nutrients. The type of food a mother eats also directly affects the secretion and quality of milk. Therefore, it is very important to have a balanced intake of various nutrients, including the five main nutrients of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins and minerals. Breastfeeding mothers should pay special attention to the absorption of calcium and iron, which can be obtained from milk, fish, poultry, eggs, lean meat or soy products. Of course, vegetables and fruits should also be eaten in moderation.

5. Mom should keep a happy mood: Don't worry, keep a happy mood. Anxiety can affect milk production. Under the influence of physiological factors and environmental factors, Mommy's mood fluctuates greatly, often in a state of depression, which will also lead to reduced milk secretion. Therefore, breastfeeding mothers should pay special attention to regulating their emotions.

6. Ensure adequate rest: Pay attention to rest and sleep, do not overwork. Ensure adequate rest time and maintain a good living condition.