When Does Your Milk Supply Increase? (& Other Nursing Questions Answered)

Last week we learned how to make fun mocktails, including one that can help increase milk production. This week is World Breastfeeding Week (8/1-8/7).

We wanted to take a moment to inform our Mamas about breastfeeding and cover some questions you may have. Like when does your milk supply increase? Or will pumping more increase milk supply? With so many different options and opinions out there we wanted to discuss a few natural ways to help with your breastfeeding experience.

📸: @chillwithsurena

When Does Your Milk Supply Increase? (& more)

Liquid Gold, Mamas milk, or just plain ol’ breast milk. Whatever you want to call it, this stuff is magic! That’s why every year over 120 countries around the world celebrate World Breastfeeding week August 1-7. First celebrated in 1992, this event was started to commemorate the Innocenti Declaration made by WHO and UNICEF policy-makers to protect, promote and support breastfeeding. This week is a beautiful reminder of how powerful Mamas truly are. You can literally produce a substance that is not only filled with nutrients that feed your children it also gives them protection against diseases. Now that’s what I call a superpower! Somebody grab my cape… I mean nursing cover.

📸: @hanna_panchenko

For some moms, nursing can be a more difficult experience. Are you concerned that you may have a harder time producing breast milk? You may be Googling “Will pumping more increase milk supply?” or asking fellow mothers for advice. Don’t worry Mama. Everyone’s nursing story is different. And thankfully there are natural and fuss-free ways to help increase your breast milk. Simply pumping or feeding more frequently can help increase breast milk production. Other moms find lactation supplements or drinking a lactation tea does the trick. Many moms meet with a lactation consultant prior to giving birth and again postpartum for nursing guidance. Always be sure to consult with your doctor if you have any questions about your milk production. They are the experts and are there to help.

Now that we’ve talked about different ways to “get the juices flowing”. Sorry, I had to. Let’s discuss some of the amazing benefits for your baby & YOU if you do choose to nurse your newborn.

📸: @loveariellarose

 

Breastfeeding Benefits For Baby:

• Lowers the risk of allergies
• Strengthen Immature immune system
• Lowers the risk of ear infections
• Protect against respiratory infections
• Lower risk of type I and II diabetes.
• Lowers the risk of eczema
• Lowers the risk of asthma
• Fewer cases of speech and orthodontic problems
• Bonding time for you and your little one (cuddle time!)
• Provide relief from diaper rash

Breastfeeding Benefits For Mom:

• Reduces the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes
• Helps your uterus return to its normal size
• Burns extra calories
• Zero waste (we love an environmentally friendly meal!)
• Lessens bleeding you may experience after delivery
• Treat acne (thank you, lauric acid)
• IT’S FREE

 

And the list goes on! We want you to know that however you choose to feed your baby is your right. We are here to support you, always. I know you’ve all heard it, “Breast is Best”. Well, we like to say “fed is best” and we mean it. We are not here to tell you whether you should/shouldn’t bottle-feed or use formula. We want this article to spread awareness to moms all over the world that this is your week to be celebrated! If you would like to learn more about breastfeeding check out our Breastfeeding Help: Top Nursing Problems Solved Blog.

 

Have nursing tips for other Mamas? Let us know in the comments below!