Improving Lactation: Practical Tips for New Mothers
Breastfeeding is one of the best gifts a mother can give her baby. Although it is a natural process, it is also a skill that both mother and baby learn together. Challenges during the first few days are common.
According to India’s National Family Health Survey-5 (NFHS-5, 2019–21), 63.7% of infants under six months were exclusively breastfed. Timely guidance and family support can help more mothers achieve their breastfeeding goals.
Start Breastfeeding Early
Breastfeeding should ideally begin within the first hour after birth. Early skin-to-skin contact encourages the baby’s natural feeding reflexes and supports milk production.
Mothers who have a vaginal delivery may find it easier to begin feeding early because they can usually move more comfortably. After a caesarean delivery or LSCS, anaesthesia, postoperative pain or temporary separation from the baby may delay the first feed.
However, successful breastfeeding after an LSCS is absolutely possible. Early skin-to-skin contact, rooming-in and support with comfortable positions—such as the football hold or side-lying position—can make feeding easier.
If the baby cannot breastfeed immediately, the mother can begin hand expression or pumping with professional guidance.
Feed Frequently and Follow Hunger Cues
Breastmilk production works mainly on demand and supply. The more frequently and effectively milk is removed, the stronger the signal to produce milk.
Most newborns need approximately 8–12 feeds in 24 hours. Instead of following a strict schedule, look for early hunger cues such as:
- Moving the head towards the breast
- Opening the mouth or licking the lips
- Bringing hands towards the mouth
- Sucking the fingers
- Becoming restless
Crying is usually a late hunger cue and may make latching more difficult.
Important Signs of a Good Latch
A deep latch helps the baby remove milk effectively and prevents nipple pain.
- Baby’s mouth is wide open with a large portion of the areola inside.
- The chin touches the breast and the lower lip turns outward.
- The cheeks remain full and rounded—not sucked inward.
- Slow, deep sucking and swallowing can be seen or heard.
- Feeding is comfortable, without persistent pain or clicking sounds.
Persistent nipple pain, damaged nipples, clicking sounds or the baby frequently slipping off the breast may indicate a shallow latch. Seek help early rather than continuing through the pain.
Skin-to-Skin Contact Matters
Skin-to-skin contact is helpful not only immediately after birth but throughout the early breastfeeding period. It helps calm the baby, encourages feeding and supports maternal milk production.
For premature and low-birth-weight babies, Kangaroo Mother Care is particularly beneficial. It supports breastfeeding, temperature control, bonding and weight gain.
Eat Well and Take Care of Yourself
Breastfeeding mothers do not need an expensive or restrictive diet. Include a variety of:
- Pulses, eggs, milk products, fish or chicken for protein
- Whole grains and millets
- Fruits and vegetables
- Nuts, seeds and healthy fats
Drink adequate water. Adequate rest, pain control, emotional reassurance and practical family support are equally important.
Do Indian Galactagogue Foods Increase Breastmilk?
Galactagogues are foods, herbs or medicines believed to increase breastmilk production. Traditionally used Indian foods include:
- Methi or fenugreek
- Shatavari
- Saunf or fennel
- Jeera or cumin
- Ajwain
- Moringa or drumstick leaves
- Garlic
- Til or sesame
- Ragi, bajra and jau
- Nuts and seeds
These foods may be included as part of a balanced diet, but no single food can dramatically increase breastmilk.
Prescription medicines such as domperidone and metoclopramide may be considered in selected mothers. They should only be taken after assessment and prescription by a doctor.
First Correct the Cause of Low Milk Supply
Before considering any galactagogue, check:
- Is the baby latching deeply?
- Is the baby feeding at least 8–12 times a day?
- Can swallowing be seen or heard?
- Are long gaps occurring between feeds?
- Is the breast being emptied effectively?
- Is pumping or hand-expression technique correct?
- Are unnecessary formula top-ups reducing breastfeeding?
Medical conditions such as hypothyroidism, PCOS, severe postpartum haemorrhage, retained placental tissue, previous breast surgery or certain medicines may also affect milk production and require assessment.
How Do You Know Your Baby Is Getting Enough Milk?
Reassuring signs include regular swallowing during feeds, a relaxed baby after most feeds, breasts feeling softer after feeding and appropriate urine output and weight gain.
After the fifth day, most babies should pass approximately six or more adequately wet nappies in 24 hours.
When Should You Consult a Doctor?
Seek medical advice if your baby:
- Is unusually sleepy, difficult to wake or feeds poorly
- Has fewer wet nappies than expected
- Has persistent or increasing jaundice
- Develops fever or repeated vomiting
- Shows signs of dehydration, such as a dry mouth or sunken eyes
- Loses excessive weight
- Does not regain birth weight by approximately two weeks
- Is not gaining weight appropriately
Conclusion
Every breastfeeding journey is unique. Challenges are common during the early days, but most can be overcome with timely support.
Frequent feeding, a deep latch, effective milk removal, skin-to-skin contact and family support are more important than any special food or supplement. If breastfeeding remains painful or you are concerned about your baby’s feeding, urine output or weight, consult your pediatrician or a certified lactation consultant early.