What to do if milk is not coming after delivery?

Understanding Delayed Milk Production After Delivery
Experiencing a delay in milk production after giving birth can be a source of anxiety for new mothers. However, it’s important to recognize that this situation is not uncommon and can occur for various reasons. Here’s a comprehensive look at what to do if you find yourself in this situation.
Recognizing the Normal Timeline
Typically, breast milk begins to come in within three to five days after delivery. In the initial days, mothers produce colostrum, a nutrient-rich fluid that is crucial for the newborn. If you notice that your milk has not yet come in, it’s essential to understand that this can be influenced by several factors, including the type of delivery, stress levels, and even the baby’s health, particularly if they were born prematurely.
Steps to Take
1. Stay Proactive: If you suspect that your milk supply is delayed, it’s vital to communicate with your healthcare provider. They can offer tailored advice and support based on your specific circumstances. This proactive approach can help you navigate the challenges of breastfeeding more effectively.
2. Frequent Breastfeeding and Pumping: Continue to breastfeed your baby as often as possible. Even if you are supplementing with formula, regular breastfeeding can stimulate your body to produce milk. Additionally, expressing milk through pumping or hand expression can help signal your body to increase milk production.
3. Avoid Pacifiers: It’s advisable to hold off on giving your baby a pacifier until your milk supply is well established. This ensures that your baby is actively sucking at the breast, which is crucial for stimulating milk production.
4. Monitor Your Health: Factors such as stress, dehydration, and certain medical conditions can impact milk supply. Make sure to stay hydrated and manage stress levels as best as you can. If you have a high BMI or have experienced previous breast surgeries, these may also contribute to delayed lactation.
5. Be Patient and Persistent: It’s important not to give up. Many mothers experience delays in milk production, and with continued effort, milk often comes in. Remember that your body is adjusting to a new routine, and it may take some time.
When to Seek Further Help
If your milk still hasn’t come in after several days, or if you have concerns about your baby’s feeding, it’s crucial to seek further assistance. Your healthcare provider can evaluate your situation and may suggest additional interventions or support, such as consulting a lactation specialist.
Conclusion
While the experience of delayed milk production can be stressful, understanding the normal timeline and taking proactive steps can help ease concerns. By maintaining open communication with healthcare professionals and continuing to breastfeed or pump, many mothers find success in establishing their milk supply. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and support is available.

How can I make my breast milk come in faster after giving birth?

Most of these methods, if they’re going to work for you, should begin working within a few days.

1. Breastfeed more often. Breastfeed often and let your baby decide when to stop feeding.
2. Pump between feedings.
3. Breastfeed from both sides.
4. Lactation cookies.
5. Other foods, herbs, and supplements.

What should I do if breast milk is not coming?

There are many things you can do to encourage a greater milk supply both at the hospital and when you’re at home:

1. Massage your breast area as well as pump or hand express milk.
2. Use a hospital grade pump.
3. Express milk frequently — even if only a small amount comes out!

Should I keep pumping if no milk is coming out?

In cases where you aren’t missing a feed at the breast, I wouldn’t pump unless you need to build up a stash for bottle feedings. Otherwise, you could end up increasing your supply too much, which could lead to more discomfort and engorgement.

Why is my milk not coming out after giving birth?

Some of the conditions linked to a delay in your milk coming in may also have an ongoing effect on milk production, including: Conditions from a baby’s delivery, such as having a caesarean section, premature birth, stress during birth, and certain medicines. Excessive bleeding (severe postpartum hemorrhage)