As a 1st time mother, I panicked when I’m not producing breast milk on the 1st 4 days of giving birth. It’s tough because I thought breast milk will come automatically on the 2nd day.
On the night of giving birth, I only breastfed my baby once then the next day I was discharged from the hospital. Thereafter, I breastfed my baby every 4 hours. Actually, the doctor suggested that I breastfeed every 2 hours but I couldn’t do it because I was too exhausted from the labor and pain. So, this goes on for 3 days. I tried to use breast pump to see if there is any milk. I did produce little milk but not sufficient to pour it out to my baby. The milk just collect around the breast pump.
On the 3rd day , my baby was all cranky and he cried the whole night. Next day he was admitted to the hospital for jaundice. He’s been a bit yellowish from 2nd day. I call it fortunate because I was about to give up breastfeeding when the same doctor encouraged me to keep going and on the 4th night my breast milk came and I can hear my boy gulping intently. So, enough of my story. Here is what to do and what to expect:
Facts:
1) when baby was born their nutrition supply can last them for 3 days. All they need is just the colostrums.
2) water can only be given in 2 teaspoon a day . Too much of water is dangerous for the newborn.
What to do:
1) breast feed baby every 2 hours or whenever baby cries.
2) be patient.
3) rest more. Rest whenever baby is asleep because you will be breastfeeding every 2 hours or so for the whole 24 hours.
4) drink water or fluids before breast feed and after breast fed. Make sure water supply is near you because you will feel thirsty after the feeding.
5) avoid ginger and any other herbs which will affect milk supply.
***** if there is still no breast milk after the 3rd day, better consult the lactation lady at the hospital. I heard there is a medication to induce the milk supply but I just prefer to generate my breast milk naturally.
breastmilk usually doesn't come in until the 4th day. Colostrum is all the need the first 4 days which is what's in your boobs until breast milk comes.. I say this as i'm nursing my 15month old :P
ReplyDeleteoh and I'd like to make a tip to breast feed every 2 hours BEFORE baby cries. sometimes they won't have the patience to wait for the let down if they are already crying. ;)
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