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Infant feeding

what makes milk?

13 replies

rymer54 · 23/08/2004 10:08

hi all

dd is almost 12 weeks and seems to be going thru a growth spurt as has been taking both breasts at almost every feed for 3/4 days, whereas hardly ever done this before.

is there anything I can do or eat to help increase the amount of milk i'm making, as my boobs never seem to get full enough for a feed now, and I cannot get anything when I try to express so they are def empty!

any ideas appreciated, proven or otherwise.

ta!
liz x

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aloha · 23/08/2004 10:51

The only sure way to make more milk is to feed more often. Be guided by your baby and just offer plenty of feeds. But don't think that soft, empty-feeling breasts mean no milk, because that isn't the case. It's normal as the weeks go by that you no longer get engorged - it's a sign that your body is getting used to breastfeeding. Nor does the amount you can express bear much relationship to the amount a baby can remove. Milk is very much a made-to-order product, so the more your baby feeds, the more you will make.

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motherinferior · 23/08/2004 11:16

Expressing's such a personal thing - honestly, don't assume that they're empty because you can't get anything out. Just keep feeding. Drink lots of water, too.

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mamerin · 23/08/2004 11:18

Apparently Black eyed beans are good for increasing milk production. Never tried it myself so can't confirm this but I was given this advice by an old Greek lady who knows her health foods etc .
also drink plenty of water yourself

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Tommy · 23/08/2004 11:27

With DS1 I was eating and drinking all sorts - Guinness (my Mum prescribed!) and oats (like porridge - my HV's idea)but generally agree with others - as long as you drink lots of water you should be fine. My boobs definitely got used to feeding so didn't feel engorged all the time. Even now, 12 months on ()I never feel "full" but there's definitely something in there cos stuff is definitely coming out!

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Branster · 23/08/2004 11:42

feeding dd often would help.
drink lots of liquids and rest properly because breasfeeding is quite demanding on your body. make sure you eat well too to keep your energy levels up.
most importantly: REST!

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rymer54 · 23/08/2004 12:16

thanks-just read al ur msgs as been asleep since she dropped off at 1030! so the rest is underway! will go and drink a pint of water before getting her up (she is awake now but will suck her thumb 4 10 mins b4 crying, little angel)

thanx again
feelin better already

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hercules · 23/08/2004 12:37

Jusr need to drink to thirst. Breasts have adjusted tob feeding hence the feeling. How much you can express is not an indicator of how much milk you have. Breasts are never empty either.