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How can I increase my milk supply with IGT?

Understanding Insufficient Glandular Tissue (IGT)
For many mothers, the journey of breastfeeding can be fraught with challenges, particularly for those diagnosed with Insufficient Glandular Tissue (IGT). This condition, characterized by underdeveloped breast tissue, can lead to difficulties in producing adequate milk supply. While it is essential to recognize that many mothers worry about low milk supply even when they are producing enough for their babies, IGT presents unique hurdles that require tailored strategies to enhance milk production.
Strategies to Increase Milk Supply with IGT
1. Frequent Feeding and Pumping: One of the most effective ways to stimulate milk production is through frequent breastfeeding or pumping. The more often milk is removed from the breasts, the more signals are sent to the body to produce milk. Mothers with IGT may find it beneficial to pump between nursing sessions to encourage additional milk flow. However, excessive pumping can be counterproductive and disheartening, so it’s crucial to find a balance that works for you.
2. Switch Nursing: This technique involves alternating between breasts during a single feeding session. By switching breasts multiple times, mothers can help increase the fat content of the milk and potentially boost overall supply. This method can be particularly beneficial for babies who may need more calories.
3. Focus on Latching: Ensuring that the baby is latching correctly is vital. A proper latch not only helps the baby feed more effectively but also stimulates the breast to produce more milk. If you’re unsure about the latch, consulting a lactation consultant can provide personalized guidance.
4. Consider Supplementation: In some cases, mothers may need to supplement breastfeeding with formula or expressed breast milk. This approach can help ensure that the baby is receiving enough nutrition while still allowing for breastfeeding attempts. It’s essential to do this in a way that maintains the breastfeeding relationship, such as using a supplemental nursing system.
5. Diet and Hydration: Maintaining a well-balanced diet and staying hydrated can also play a role in milk production. Some mothers find that certain foods, such as oats or lactation cookies, can help boost their supply. While scientific evidence on specific foods is limited, many mothers report positive experiences with these dietary changes.
6. Emotional Support and Realistic Expectations: It’s crucial for mothers with IGT to have realistic expectations about their milk supply and to seek emotional support. Joining support groups or connecting with other mothers facing similar challenges can provide encouragement and practical advice.
Conclusion
Increasing milk supply with IGT is a multifaceted approach that requires patience, persistence, and support. By employing strategies such as frequent feeding, ensuring proper latching, and considering dietary adjustments, mothers can work towards achieving their breastfeeding goals. Remember, every mother’s journey is unique, and finding what works best for you and your baby is key to a successful breastfeeding experience.

Why is nothing working to increase my milk supply?

The key to increasing your milk supply is frequent stimulation and emptying of the breasts. This may take some time and it is important that you seek advice and support from a lactation consultant, your maternal and child health nurse or other health care professional skilled in breastfeeding management.

How can I increase my milk supply urgently?

Tips to produce more milk when you’re pumping

  1. Pump more often, from both breasts. Many women wonder how often they should pump.
  2. Drink water and eat healthy foods.
  3. Make time for skin-to-skin.
  4. Make pumping as comfortable as possible.

Do soft breasts mean no milk?

Your breasts feel softer
This happens as your milk supply adjusts to your baby’s needs. The initial breast fullness reduces in the first few weeks. At around 6 weeks, breast fullness is completely gone and your breasts may feel soft. This is completely normal and has no effect on your milk supply.

What are the symptoms of IGT breastfeeding?

The mother with IGT will often (but not always!) have a physical presentation characterized by a wide space between the breasts on the chest wall, tubular shaped breasts with bulbous areolae, and a lack of breast growth during pregnancy.

How much milk can you produce with IGT?

In my experience I find that most women with IGT will make somewhere between 50 and 90% of the milk their baby needs, which is fantastic! With skilled and sensitive help and the right kind of support, women with IGT CAN breastfeed! They just probably need to supplement their baby with some extra milk.

What stimulates milk production for nursing endocrine system?

Prolactin
Prolactin. Prolactin is a hormone that’s responsible for lactation, certain breast tissue development and milk production.’);})();(function(){window.jsl.dh(‘MBdnZ93OCPeTseMPjZ2qkA4__40′,’

What is magic 8 in breastfeeding?

So start with this daily total as an estimate of her Magic Number. For example, if her answer is 8 (which seems to be average), she can assume that to keep her milk production steady long term she will need to continue removing milk from her breasts at least 8 times each day.

Is it possible to increase milk supply with IGT?

Some mums with IGT find that for subsequent babies, their supply improves. This is because more glandular tissue is made with each pregnancy and breastfeeding experience. You may have a better experience next time round.

What if I Cannot produce enough milk?

If low milk production seems to be a problem, but your baby seems to be sucking effectively, talk with your healthcare provider or certified lactation consultant (IBCLC). They may advise you to: Make sure your baby is latched on and both of you are positioned comfortably. Offer both breasts at each feeding.

How can I double my milk supply fast?

Empty breasts frequently

  1. Breastfeed your baby more often, at least eight or more times in 24 hours.
  2. Offer both breasts at each feeding.
  3. Massage breasts while baby is nursing.
  4. Ensure the baby is completely emptying your breasts at each feeding.
  5. Avoid use of bottles without also expressing your milk to maintain supply.
Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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