(lactation activist)
A Motherlode of Breastfeeding Information
Nurse-In
Many of the problems encountered in breastfeeding can be very frustrating and can potentially end the nursing relationship. One of the most common problems is a poor milk supply. Many doctors recommend supplementing with formula, sometimes even in the first days when the baby is designed to lose some weight. The most detrimental factor to supply is supplementation. Breastfeeding is a system of supply and demand, so every time that your baby is supplemented, there is less demand on the system and thus less supply. This spiral of increasing supplementation and decreasing supply is seen so often in American women. The lack of information available and lack of support is a compounding factor to the blatant misinformation of many American doctors. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastmilk as the perfect food for the first year, with solids beginning somewhere around 6 months as a practice for future eating. Doctors who recommend formula for normal full-term babies are going against the recommendations of their own academy and are not current on their literature.
If you are battling a low supply, a nurse-in is my first recommendation. Although it may not seem possible in your current situation try to think of it as a prescription for better breastfeeding. A nurse-in is an opportunity for your body to catch up with the increasing demands of a growing baby. It can also be a great way to jumpstart a low supply caused from supplementation. The theory is that you and your baby get in bed and spend 72 hours together or are nursing successfully. If possible, have all your needs met in this time. Have someone prepare your food and bring it to you, as well as taking care of any household needs. Get up only to stretch and to use the bathroom. Spending this time with your baby is very important to your supply.
Lying in bed with your baby can be quite boring, yet it offers your body a chance to sleep and get much need relaxation. With not much to do, you will find yourself nursing much more frequently than you usually do. This offers your breasts much more stimulation, which, in turn, demands a bigger supply. Being in close contact with your baby also gives your body a full sensory experience of your baby, allowing you to tap into your natural mothering ability. Getting to know your baby and becoming very connected with her will help you to increase your supply and keep it up. The 72 hours will allow your body to physically catch up with the increasing demands, and by the time it is over, your supply will be greatly increased. Make sure that you are consuming plenty of water during this time. If your current situation doesn't allow you the time or space to do this, you can still have a nurse-in by just keeping in mind how the supply and demand system works and by offering your breast frequently and making sure to allow yourself plenty of time to rest. Pumping after every feeding can also help to increase your supply, but remember your baby is more efficient at stimulating your breast than any pump ever could be. So do yourself and your baby a favor and nurse in!
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DISCLAIMER: This web site is designed for educational purposes only. You should not rely on this information as a substitute for medical attention, or diagnosis. If you are having breastfeeding difficulties, please contact an IBCLC near you for assistance. If you have any questions consult your family's health care provider. In some instances, the information represents opinion or judgment. Neither the information providers nor the Site owner guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any information in this website nor will they be responsible for any errors or omissions or for the results obtained from the use of such information. The Site owner and the information providers will not be liable or responsible to any person(s) for any loss or damage caused whatsoever by the use of information or ideas referenced in this web site. Your participation in this service therefore is solely at your own risk.