If a woman delivers a baby by c-section, she faces many unique challenges when it comes to breastfeeding. This may be due to the effect of the journey or issues with milk production. Many women will find themselves concerned about their ability in milk production. There are many steps you can take to increase your milk supply. Let’s see what are the ways to increase breast milk supply after a c-section.
What are the reasons for the low milk supply?
The c-section itself can impact the early stage of breastfeeding. Some other reasons for low milk supply are,
Delayed milk production: There will be hormonal fluctuations after surgery, and the time taken for your body to recover may delay the milk production.
Medications: The anesthesia used during a C-section and pain relievers can delay breast milk production for the first few days after birth.
Stress and fatigue: The physical toll of surgery with the stress and exhaustion of caring for a newborn can affect breast milk production.
Limited Early Breastfeeding: The c-section often involves longer recovery time when compared to vaginal birth. So it delays the breastmilk supply.
What are the steps to stimulate milk production after a c-section?
- Frequent breastfeeding newborns as often as possible can help to increase breast milk supply, aiming for 8 to 12 times per day, this helps stimulate breast milk production.
- Expressing milk manually or using breast pumping can help stimulate your body to produce breast milk.
- Skin-to-skin contact with the baby for a few hours or a few days after birth can improve breast milk after c-section.
Does a good latch help to increase milk supply?
Yes, proper latch is good for efficient breastfeeding. It can increase breast milk flow even after a c-section. And good latch directly helps your milk supply and stimulates breast milk. If babies are not latching properly, they may not be able to empty your breast effectively, which can hinder milk production. Visit the best gynaecology hospital in Coimbatore for a latching consultation. If you are facing an improper latch, here’s how you can improve your latch:
Positioning: Ensure every time you are feeding that your baby is aligned properly with your breast. Your baby’s mouth should cover both the nipple and areola.
Seek support: Don’t hesitate to seek help from a nurse or lactation consultant if you are unsure about the latching technique.
Comfort: Make sure that you and your baby are in a comfortable position during feeding. The more relaxation of the mind will give you more breast milk supply.
By following these procedures, you can improve your baby’s latch and ensure your breasts are emptied thoroughly, which can encourage your body to produce more breast milk.
Is it normal to not have milk immediately after a c-section?
This is a normal situation faced by every woman who delivers a baby by c-section. After both vaginal and c-sections, the body will produce colostrum, which helps produce nutrient-rich first milk for the first few days. The mature milk supply usually comes in between 2 to 5 days after delivery.
Do diet and hydration affect breast milk supply after c-section?
Nutrition plays an important role in supporting milk production. Hydration is also an essential component of boosting your breast milk supply.
Hydration: Drinking more water is important for producing breast milk. Aim to drink 8 to 10 glasses of water a day and more if you are feeding your baby frequently.
Nutritious food to increase breast milk: Food that is rich in protein, healthy fats, and whole grains in your diet helps your breast milk supply. These foods will help in the recovery process of C-section and produce breast milk supply.
Lactogenic foods: oats, fenugreek, fennel, and flax seeds are believed to help boost breast milk production after C-section.
How can we manage stress to improve milk production?
- Stress can affect milk production, so it’s essential to find ways to relax and manage stress. And it will help them adjust to motherhood after a c-section.
- Get support from your family or friends to take care of your household tasks or help with baby care.
- Try to rest when your baby is resting, even if the time is short.
- Meditations or deep breathing can reduce stress.
When should I visit the lactation consultant or doctor?
If you are facing frequent difficulties with milk supply after your c-section, it’s important to seek professional help. If you are experiencing pain or complications after a c-section, get treatment from the best obstetrician in Coimbatore to get the desired outcomes. The doctor will give you personalized advice and techniques to improve breast milk flow.
How does hormonal imbalance after a c-section affect breast milk production?
The key hormones that are responsible for breast milk production are prolactin and oxytocin. This key hormone will disrupt the natural release of key hormones because of hormonal imbalance after a c-section.
Conclusion:
Patience, proper care, and consistent effort are important for increasing breast milk production after a c-section. Understanding the reasons for low milk supply and taking steps to stimulate breast milk is important. Every mother’s breastfeeding experience will be unique and challenging after a c-section.