Expressions
thoughts and advice on breastfeeding...increasing your supply
Continued from page 11:      By: JC Diamond

A common solution is to turn to the NICU unit nurses or to various lactation specialists. If you seek the advice of one, you should make sure the specialist is well versed with preemie nursing. Supporting a breastfeeding preemie mom is NOT the same as supporting a full termer..and suggestion that might work for a FT could be dangerous for a preemie.

Many of the mothers on the list responded that when they were pumping, they become almost obsessed with the amount of milk they pump..and to see this amount go down often leads to additional feelings of failure.

"I still regret not being able to keep up my supply. I would cry after leaving the pumping rooms with other moms who pumped TONS in ½ the time. " (Kerry, preemie mom)

Many times, the milk supply WILL increase to meet the babies needs once you are actually able to nurse (alas not always) but there are some things that you can do to try to increase your milk supply while you are still pumping:

1.  Have your pump checked
This is so obvious that many times it is overlooked. Makes sure that your pump is working correctly and that the suction is correct and the gaskets are all tight. If there is a problem then you can usually return the pump or get new attachments. I have known women at my NICU that brought their pumps in to the lactation counselor to have them watch a pumping session..so if you need to do this..by all means go ahead

If you are not double pumping this is something you may want to consider..The additional stimulation will help your supply increase.

2. Increase frequency of pumping
LaLecheLeague literature suggests that mothers will need to pump at least five times a day for a total of about 100 minutes in order to keep up a supply. MOST women find that frequent shorter pumping sessions work better than longer ones spaced further apart, but you should experiment and find out what works and what is practical for you. If your child is still in the hospital it might be impractical.

3. Fluids
Increased liquids and adequate rest are often touted as a cure-all for a dwindling supply. It is by no means assured, but try to drink liquids during or just before your pumping session.

4. Medicinal preparations (Herbal and otherwise)
There are various "remedies" that are touted as helping increase a diminishing milk supply. Brewer’s yeast, Fenugreek, dark beer., blessed thistle and mother’s milk tea ( an herbal tea that combines several herbs thought to stimulate milk production) are among the most common. These are usually available at health food stores.
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