Constant lactation. What is lactation in women: stages and features of the process. What is induced lactation

It is difficult to fully appreciate the contribution to the health and development of the child that breastfeeding makes. Breast milk is the most useful and valuable component in the diet of a 1-2 year old baby. Many mothers today are very concerned with the issue of breastfeeding for as long as possible. Regardless of this desire, there comes a time when a woman, for certain reasons, is faced with the problem of stopping lactation.

Even if the mother has decided on long-term breastfeeding, sooner or later you will still have to think about the end of lactation (we recommend reading:)

Reasons for stopping lactation

The period during which the mother breastfeeds the child depends on the individual characteristics of the female body and can vary within 2.5 years. At this age, the composition of breast milk completely changes. According to endocrinologists, the production of prolactin, the hormone of breast milk, proceeds through natural phases, and at the end of this process, involution occurs, but this scenario is far from always occurring.

There are other options for stopping lactation:

Suppression of lactation immediately after the birth of a child. The reason may be medical indications for the mother or for the baby.
Self denial. There are various reasons why the baby does not want to suck on his mother's breast. As a result, the transition to ordinary food is inevitable.
Weaning a child from the breast at the age of one. By this time, the woman is very tired emotionally and physically, she has a desire to get enough sleep and stop straining her hands while holding a rather heavy baby for a long time.

Sometimes even mothers of newborns have to stop lactation - most often this is due to medical indications.

Ways to stop breast milk production

Breastfeeding isn't just for the baby. The process of natural lactation has a positive effect on the hormonal health of the woman herself, especially if all stages of breastfeeding are normal from a physiological point of view. The natural desire of any mother is to ensure that the cessation of lactation occurs without particularly strong pain. For almost painless suppression of prolactin production, there are a number of specific means and methods: gradual or simultaneous weaning, special herbal preparations, medicines.

Gradual cessation of lactation

The process of breastfeeding is characterized by successive stages, starting with its formation and ending with involution. The natural stop of milk production does not happen instantly. In rare cases, the onset of the extinction of lactation occurs before the child reaches 1 year and 6 months.

To understand that the process of involution has already started, the state of the mammary glands will help. Milk stops coming to the breast, and it remains soft throughout the day.

If the baby is not allowed to breastfeed, the volume of milk will decrease regardless of the needs of the crumbs. This is the best time to wean your baby.

Today, the situation is quite common when a mother is forced to stop breastfeeding even before the onset of involution. How to stop the production of breast milk in this case? If the child is already 9-11 months old, he can be weaned for 2-3 months:

every two weeks, reduce the number of feedings by one;
by the end of this period, only feeding at night should remain;
then you need to give it up, but the baby will still have a sucking reflex - to satisfy it, you can give the baby water, compotes or kefir from a bottle.

This approach to stopping lactation makes the process easier for the mother and for the little one. According to lactation consultants, this method is the most humane.

during the cold season (since the risk of infection with intestinal viruses and bacteria increases in summer)
if the baby is healthy and his age is more than 1.5 years.

Mom during the period when she seeks to stop lactation should follow some recommendations:

reduce the amount of fluid consumed;
give up hot tea, broth, salty foods and those foods that cause thirst;
remove fatty meat, smoked and dairy products, butter from the menu;
in case of pain or discomfort in the mammary glands, decant in small quantities until the unpleasant symptoms stop.

During the period of weaning the crumbs from the breast, it is advisable for the mother to abandon the use of salt and those products in which it is contained in large quantities.

Sudden weaning of the baby

Most women who, for one reason or another, decide to stop breastfeeding, do not have the necessary couple of months in stock - they are interested in how to quickly stop lactation. Under such conditions, neither the mother's body nor the child's body is prepared for instant changes.

Sometimes they offer to send the baby to relatives for the time of weaning or in other available ways to make sure that he does not see his mother for 3-7 days. However, such measures can lead to great stress for the child, after which the process of weaning will be associated with the risk of losing his mother.

In addition, a sharp suppression of lactation is not only a psychological experience, but a strong physical discomfort. Milk production continues at the same intensity, as a result of which the breast is stretched, painful sensations appear. In some cases, lactostasis or even mastitis may develop. Tightening the breasts with an elastic bandage or a tight bra is advised to reduce stretching - however, these methods are not physiological, and can only exacerbate the problem of breast engorgement.

Quick weaning methods are not always helpful. They suggest using:

compresses and wraps (from camphor oil, cabbage leaf);
herbal infusions;
tablets.

Wrap with camphor oil

A popular remedy used by mothers to stop lactation, ideally suited for home conditions, is wrapping or rubbing the mammary glands. The main component of these procedures is camphor oil. In addition to suppressing lactation, the use of this oil along with a light massage of the breasts, leads to the restoration of the skin in a natural way, and also significantly reduces the risk of hard lumps in the mammary glands.

The wrapping procedure itself is quite simple:

it is necessary to soak bandage napkins or napkins made of natural fabrics with camphor oil;
attach to each breast, cover with polyethylene, put on underwear, leave for a night's sleep (after feeding the baby in advance).

The disadvantage of camphor oil is a sharp corrosive smell, which is not easy to get rid of. For this reason, the clothes that are used for such a procedure will have to be thrown away in the future.

Camphor oil helps regenerate breast tissue and prevent lumps

Compresses with cabbage leaves

In addition to wrapping, you can resort to other folk methods to quickly stop lactation - applying cold cabbage leaves to the chest with their change every hour throughout the day. According to Jack Newman, a well-known breastfeeding consultant, cabbage is a fairly gentle way to alleviate breast engorgement (to avoid lactostasis). Such compresses help to reduce the production and flow of milk, which means they can suppress lactation.

The use of herbal preparations

Sometimes, to stop lactation, the use of special herbal preparations is fully justified. Such infusions or decoctions can be taken both internally and as a means for rubbing. The most widely used diuretic infusions, these include herbal decoction of sage and mint. Thanks to such a folk remedy, it is possible, albeit not immediately, to independently reduce lactation, and subsequently achieve its complete suppression.

For a more effective action of decoctions of herbs, it is necessary to simultaneously reduce the intake of fluid by the body. A significant reduction in fluid intake helps to naturally reduce the amount of milk and contributes to the complete suppression of prolactin production. Due to this, the intake of herbal infusions gives the desired result.

Minimal harm to the body from herbal preparations is a big plus in their favor. As a precaution, before starting to use them, it is advisable to consult a specialist, since herbal preparations that are used to stop lactation have certain properties:

diuretic;
anti-inflammatory;
sedatives.

Herbal preparations can be a great help for mommy to stop lactation, but they should be used after consulting a doctor.

For example, a collection of lingonberry leaf, horsetail, corn stigma, high elecampane, common basil and common bearberry helps to get rid of excess fluid in the body, which is known to help suppress lactation. Medicinal sage in combination with mint and belladonna can have an anti-inflammatory effect against the background of a decrease in the amount of milk. Common heather, marsh cudweed herb and valerian officinalis roots are indispensable in stressful situations.

Chopped sage leaves - 1 tsp pour 200 ml of boiling water. Infuse for about an hour, then strain. Take 4 times a day, 50 ml 20 minutes before meals.
Mint leaves - 5 tsp pour 300 ml of boiling water. Also insist an hour and strain. Drink 100 ml three times a day.
Lingonberry leaf - 1 tsp pour 200 ml of boiling water, leave for half an hour, drink a third of a glass 3 times a day.

Since ancient times, lingonberry leaf has been used by women during the period of weaning a child from the breast. You can buy it at a pharmacy that sells medicinal herbs.

Naturally, a noticeable effect from all kinds of folk methods at home does not come as instantly as from the use of drugs, but a week after the start of the intake, a woman can feel changes in the amount of milk produced.

The use of medications

May lead to adverse effects on women's health. This method is effective in cases where the mother does not have time to gradually stop lactation: for example, after childbirth, breastfeeding is contraindicated for a woman from a medical point of view or in connection with a return to work.

There are a sufficient number of tablets specifically designed to suppress lactation that can be purchased at a pharmacy, for example, Dostinex, Bromocriptine, Norkolut, etc. When resorting to their help, it is worth remembering:

Only a doctor should prescribe pills that will help stop lactation. This precaution helps to avoid side effects from taking inappropriate medications.
Hormonal drugs have many contraindications, which must be considered before taking them. It is forbidden to take drugs for hypertension, varicose veins, diabetes mellitus, liver and kidney diseases, etc.
The decision to stop lactation should be final, because after taking medication, it is no longer possible to restore the production of prolactin.
It is worth taking pills only as a last resort, if there is no other solution to the problem.

Homeopathy can also be considered as an option for lactation suppression. A doctor should prescribe homeopathic remedies. The most common of them are Fitollyaka 6 and Apis 3.

Of course, pills are the fastest way to stop lactation, but ending it gradually naturally is the safest option, although it takes several months. It is also better not to rush to try to abruptly stop breastfeeding, as this can lead to various complications.

How to stop lactation and which method to resort to, it is better to decide together with a gynecologist. This consultation has a number of advantages:

absence of unpleasant consequences;
prevention of complications;
preservation of normal functions of the mammary glands, which is important for the prevention of tumors and breastfeeding without difficulty next time.

The habit does not appear instantly. Take care of the health of your baby, while not forgetting about your own body.

Complications of lactation (cracked nipples, milk stasis, mastitis)

What medications can be taken during lactation (antibiotics, antihistamines, antivirals, sedatives, activated charcoal)?

Treatment of cystitis, thrush, sinusitis, constipation, diarrhea, tonsillitis, cough and other diseases during lactation

The site provides reference information for informational purposes only. Diagnosis and treatment of diseases should be carried out under the supervision of a specialist. All drugs have contraindications. Expert advice is required!

What is lactation?

Lactation- this is the process of formation and excretion of breast milk in a woman in the postpartum period, which ensures the feeding of a newborn baby. The process of development and regulation of lactation is provided by complex mechanisms, among which the main role belongs to hormonal changes, as well as the central nervous system of a woman. In some diseases and pathological conditions, the lactation process may be disturbed, which will have characteristic clinical manifestations.

Physiology of lactation in women ( what hormones are responsible for lactation?)

To understand the mechanism of development of lactation, as well as the causes of the violation of this function, certain knowledge is needed from the field of physiology and anatomy of the female reproductive system.

The mammary gland consists of glandular tissue, which forms the so-called acini. The acini unite with each other to form lobules and larger lobes that share a common excretory duct. The excretory ducts of the lobes of the mammary gland come together and open at the nipple.

Under normal conditions ( outside of pregnancy) the weight of the mammary gland is about 150 - 200 grams ( data can vary significantly depending on the physique of a woman). When pregnancy occurs, under the influence of sex hormones ( estrogen and progesterone) there is an increase in the blood supply to the gland tissue, as well as its intensive development, as a result of which its mass can increase by 2 times. From about the middle of pregnancy, the mammary gland can already produce milk, but this is prevented by a high concentration of the hormone progesterone. 2 - 3 days before the onset of childbirth, the development of the mammary gland ends. In this case, its mass can reach 600 - 900 grams. The concentration of progesterone decreases, causing the secretory cells of the mammary gland ( lactocytes) begin to produce colostrum ( "immature" human milk).

After childbirth, there is an increase in the concentration of estrogen ( female sex hormones) in the blood, as well as an increase in the concentration of the hormone prolactin. It is the latter hormone that is responsible for the increased formation and accumulation of milk in the mammary glands. During breastfeeding under the influence of another hormone ( oxytocin) there is a contraction of the muscle cells surrounding the acini and excretory ducts of the glandular tissue, as a result of which the resulting milk is released outward through the openings in the nipple area.

How long does lactation last?

The regulation of lactation is determined by the frequency of feeding the child. The fact is that the attachment of a newborn to the breast and mechanical irritation of the receptors ( special nerve cells) triggers a reflex reaction that stimulates the production of the hormones prolactin and oxytocin and the production of breast milk. Therefore, the more often the baby is applied to the breast, the more milk is produced by lactocytes. In addition, together with breast milk, a so-called inhibitor substance is produced, which inhibits the further formation of milk ( that is, the more milk, the more inhibitor is produced and the slower new milk is secreted). This protects the mammary glands from overflow.

The main “stimulus” for stopping lactation is the disappearance of the sucking reflex in a child, which is observed at the age of 3-4 years. In the absence of a mechanical stimulus ( irritation of the nipple zone of the mammary gland) there is a decrease in the production of prolactin, as a result of which the process of milk formation slows down and fades away. The glandular tissue of the mammary gland is gradually destroyed, as a result of which it ( gland) may decrease in size.

It is worth noting that if the baby was weaned at an earlier date, lactation will also stop.

Can lactation occur without pregnancy?

The secretion of milk from the mammary glands in women outside of pregnancy and outside the period of breastfeeding ( galactorrhea) can be observed in diseases of the endocrine system and in some other pathological conditions.

The cause of galactorrhea can be:

tumor of the pituitary prolactinoma). The pituitary gland is a gland that produces hormones that regulate the functions of almost all organs and tissues. If the pituitary tumor consists of cells that produce the hormone prolactin, an increased concentration of this hormone will be maintained in the patient's blood, which may be accompanied by the formation and release of milk from the mammary glands.
Diseases of the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus is an organ that regulates the functions of the pituitary gland, as well as other endocrine glands. Under normal conditions, the hypothalamus secretes the substance dopamine, which inhibits the secretion of prolactin by the pituitary cells. When the hypothalamus is damaged with infection, trauma, tumor, and so on) this regulatory mechanism may be violated, as a result of which there will be an increased production of prolactin and the formation of milk in the mammary glands.
Hypothyroidism. This is a disease of the thyroid gland, in which the concentration of hormones produced by it decreases ( thyroxine and triiodothyronine) in blood. This leads to increased production of the hormone thyroliberin by the hypothalamus, which can also stimulate the production of prolactin and galactorrhea.
Kidney diseases. Under normal conditions, prolactin produced by the pituitary gland circulates in a woman's blood for a certain time, after which it is removed from the body through the kidneys. With a pronounced violation of kidney function, the process of removing prolactin may be disrupted, as a result of which galactorrhea may develop.
The use of certain medications. Certain medicines ( for example, birth control pills containing estrogens) can also stimulate the formation of prolactin and the release of milk from the mammary glands outside of pregnancy. Another cause of galactorrhea may be the use of drugs that block the action of dopamine at the pituitary level, which will also be accompanied by increased production of prolactin.

Can men be lactating?

The reason for the appearance of milk from the mammary glands of a man may be prolactinoma - a tumor of the pituitary gland, accompanied by an increase in the concentration of prolactin in the blood. However, it is worth noting that this disease is not always accompanied by the formation of milk. The fact is that in the male body an extremely low concentration of estrogen is maintained ( female sex hormones), which are necessary for the growth and development of the mammary glands. This is why even with high levels of prolactin in the blood, galactorrhea in men may be absent.

It is worth noting that galactorrhea in men can be observed with tumors that secrete female sex hormones, as well as with the artificial introduction of these hormones into the body.

Can children be lactating?

The secretion of milk from the mammary glands in children can be observed during the first few days or weeks of their life. This is due to the increased concentration of estrogen in their blood ( female sex hormones), which entered their body from the mother's body through the placenta ( organ that maintains the life of the fetus during fetal development). Increased estrogen concentration can stimulate the production of prolactin ( both boys and girls), which may be accompanied by the release of milk. This phenomenon usually disappears on its own after a while, when excess estrogen is excreted from the body of a newborn baby.

Why does lactation disappear?

The reasons for the disappearance or reduction of lactation during breastfeeding may be some diseases and pathological conditions, as well as improper breastfeeding.

Violation ( weakening) lactation may be due to:

Hormonal disorders. For normal growth and development of the mammary glands, female sex hormones are necessary ( estrogens), as well as progesterone. At the same time, for secretion ( workings) breast milk requires the hormone prolactin, and for the release of milk from the gland - the hormone oxytocin. If the process of formation or production of at least one of these hormones is disrupted ( what can be observed with infectious lesions of the pituitary gland, if it is damaged during an injury, or with other diseases of the endocrine system), the lactation process will also be disrupted.

Mastitis. This is an inflammatory disease of the breast, which can be caused by infections, trauma, or other lesions. After suffering mastitis, connective tissue scars may remain in the mammary glands, which are not able to produce milk. This will lead to a weakening of lactation.
Improper feeding of the child. As mentioned earlier, putting the baby to the breast stimulates the production of new milk. If you feed your baby irregularly, taking long breaks between two subsequent feedings, this can disrupt the process of hormone production ( prolactin and oxytocin) and the formation of breast milk.
The introduction of complementary foods. Complementary foods are supplementary foods that are recommended for children over 6 months of age in addition to breast milk. If complementary foods are introduced too quickly, the baby will be satiated with it, as a result of which he will not require the breast or will suckle it too sluggishly. This will lead to a violation of the breastfeeding regimen and disrupt the hormonal regulation of lactation, which will be accompanied by a decrease in the amount of breast milk.
Child diseases. If a child has a weakened sucking reflex, during breastfeeding, there is not enough pronounced irritation of the nipples of the mammary gland, which also disrupts the process of producing new milk.
Aerophagy. The essence of this pathology lies in the fact that during sucking, along with breast milk, the child swallows a large amount of air. Air enters the baby's stomach and stretches its walls, as a result of which the baby feels full too quickly and stops suckling. According to the mechanisms described earlier, this reduces the production of prolactin, oxytocin and breast milk.
Medicines. Some medicines ( diuretics, anesthetics, drugs containing male sex hormones and so on) can inhibit the process of milk production in the mammary glands.

How does smoking affect lactation?

It has been scientifically proven that women who smoke have problems with lactation ( that is, its weakening) are 20% more common than non-smokers. Scientists associate the mechanism of development of this phenomenon with the action of nicotine ( a substance that is part of almost all cigarettes, cigars, smoking tobacco, and so on) to the central nervous system. It is assumed that nicotine during smoking activates the production of the substance dopamine. Dopamine inhibits the formation of the hormone prolactin, thereby reducing the rate of milk production in the mammary glands during breastfeeding.

Are x-rays, fluorography, CT, MRI and ultrasound dangerous during lactation?

Performing diagnostic instrumental studies during breastfeeding is not contraindicated, since it cannot affect either the lactation process or the quality of breast milk.

During x-ray or CT scans ( computed tomography) radiation waves are transmitted through the human body, which are partially absorbed by the cells of tissues and organs. As a result of exposure to these waves, certain mutations can be observed in cells. In this regard, there is an opinion among the people that after performing an x-ray, you need to express milk, since it is impossible to feed a child with it. However, this assertion is erroneous. The point is that under normal conditions ( in a healthy woman) mutated cells are quickly destroyed by the body's immune system, as a result of which they do not cause any harm to the woman. Milk, on the other hand, does not contain cells at all, so a single X-ray or CT scan will not affect its composition in any way.

Medications to increase lactation

Name of medication	Mechanism of action	Method of application and dosage
*lactogon*	This is a dietary supplement based on herbal ingredients ( nettle, ginger, royal jelly, potassium iodide and so on). The drug stimulates the formation of breast milk and maintains lactation throughout the entire period of breastfeeding.	Inside, 1 tablet 3-4 times a day with meals, half an hour before feeding the baby. The course of treatment is 30 days.
*Pulsatilla compositum*	A complex preparation based on the grass of the lumbago, sulfur and other components. Stimulates the formation of milk during breastfeeding, and also has a moderate sedative effect.	The drug is prescribed 1 ampoule 3-4 times a week. It is administered intravenously, intramuscularly or taken orally ( for this, the solution from the ampoule should be drunk). The course of treatment is 15 - 20 days.
*Mlecoin*	A complex drug that can stimulate lactation. Produced in the form of granules.	Take orally, sucking 5 granules 30 minutes before meals twice a day ( morning and evening). Treatment is recommended to continue throughout the entire period of lactation.

Folic acid during lactation

Folic acid is a vitamin necessary for the normal course of cell division processes in the body. In other words, without this vitamin, the growth and renewal of tissues and organs is impossible. During pregnancy, part of the folic acid from the woman's body is transferred to the body of the growing fetus, as a result of which the mother may develop a deficiency of this vitamin. During lactation, part of folic acid is spent on increasing the size of the mammary glands, as well as on the production of breast milk, which also requires its additional intake into the body. This is why it is recommended that all breastfeeding mothers take 300 micrograms of folic acid daily ( in the form of tablets). The course of treatment is 1 month, but if necessary, it can be extended ( after consultation with a doctor).

Mixtures for nursing mothers to increase lactation ( milky way, lactamyl, femilac)

To date, there are many nutritional mixtures enriched with minerals, microelements and macronutrients, amino acids and other substances necessary to support the lactation process. The use of these mixtures in food provides abundant milk production, improves its composition, and also prevents the development of vitamin deficiency states, since they also include all the vitamins necessary for a nursing woman.

Milky way blend. In addition to vitamins and microelements, the composition of the drug includes an extract of galega grass, which stimulates the formation of breast milk. To prepare the mixture, 1 tablespoon of dry matter should be poured into 150 - 200 ml of hot boiled water or milk ( not boiling water), stir and take orally within an hour after preparation. Take the drug in the indicated dosage should be 1 - 2 times a day for 2 - 4 weeks.
Lactamyl blend. In addition to vitamins and minerals, this mixture contains components of plants that stimulate the formation of breast milk ( nettle, palm, soybean and other oils, anise, fennel and so on). To prepare a mixture of 50 grams of dry matter, pour 1 glass ( 200 ml) hot boiled water and mix thoroughly. The resulting mixture should be drunk within 40-60 minutes after preparation. The duration of the course of treatment is determined depending on the effectiveness of the drug, as well as on its tolerance by the patient.
Femilac blend. To prepare the mixture, take 7 - 9 measuring spoons ( are included in the package) dry matter and pour 1 cup ( 200 ml) hot boiled water or milk. After thorough mixing, the mixture must be taken orally. Also dry matter can be added to tea ( 1 - 2 spoons 3 - 4 times a day).

Breast massage to increase lactation

Properly performed breast massage stimulates the production of milk ( by stimulating the receptors of the peripapillary zone and stimulating the production of prolactin). Massage also promotes the release of milk from the acini ( mammary glands), thereby preventing its stagnation.

Breast massage can be performed:

1 way. Slightly pressing on the upper sections of the mammary gland with your fingers, perform circular movements with them, gradually going down ( towards the nipple). The procedure should be performed for 20-30 seconds, and then repeated with the second mammary gland.
2 way. First, you should lightly press your fingers on the upper part of the mammary gland ( under the collarbone) and then swipe down ( to the nipple), while maintaining a slight pressure on the gland. Repeat the procedure 3-5 times, then move on to the second gland.
3 way. Take the nipple with two fingers and gently massage it for 5 to 30 seconds ( it will promote prolactin secretion and milk production).

Perform these simple exercises should be within 4 - 5 minutes after each feeding of the child, but not less than 5 - 6 times a day.

Does pumping and using a breast pump increase lactation?

Expressing breast milk allows you to maintain lactation at the right level or even stimulate it.

Pumping can be useful both for feeding a baby ( in this case, expressed milk is given to the child at regular intervals), and to remove milk from the mammary glands in cases where it accumulates in excess. For example, this can be observed with the introduction of complementary foods, when the child is satiated much faster than usual.

You can perform the pumping procedure manually or using a special device ( breast pump). In the first case, the essence of the procedure is as follows. The peripapillary zone of the gland should be clasped with all the fingers of the hand, and then slightly squeeze it ( gland) with fingertips, moving them to the braid. This procedure should be repeated several times until drops appear from the nipple area, and then streams of milk.

It is much easier to express milk with a breast pump. The essence of this device lies in the fact that it creates negative pressure around the nipple area, as a result of which the milk is “pulled out” from the lobules of the mammary gland, falling into a special reservoir.

Both with manual pumping and with the use of a breast pump, there is a maintenance or increase in breast milk production. The mechanism of development of this effect is that during pumping, the peripapillary zone of the mammary gland is irritated, which triggers the secretion of the hormone prolactin, which stimulates lactopoiesis ( milk production). In addition, the removal of milk from the lobules of the gland reduces the concentration of the inhibitor substance ( which inhibits the formation of new milk), which also stimulates lactation.

Is it possible to drink domperidone to stimulate lactation?

Domperidone is an antiemetic drug that is used to relieve nausea and prevent vomiting, and may also increase lactation.

The mechanism of antiemetic action of domperidone is that it blocks dopamine receptors at the level of the central nervous system ( CNS), thereby eliminating its inhibitory effect on the motility of the gastrointestinal tract. This increases the peristalsis of the stomach and intestines, which accelerates their emptying and eliminates the feeling of nausea.

As mentioned earlier, the secretion of the hormone prolactin responsible for lactation by pituitary cells also depends on the level of dopamine in the CNS ( dopamine slows down the production of prolactin). When using domperidone, the effect of dopamine on the pituitary gland is also blocked. This may increase the concentration of prolactin in the blood, which will stimulate the formation of milk. Some women use this effect of the drug to stimulate lactation. However, it is worth remembering that galactorrhea ( increased milk production) is not the main, but a side effect of domperidone. In addition, the use of this medication may be associated with a number of other adverse reactions ( irritability, headaches, allergic reactions and so on). That is why it can be used to stimulate lactation only after consultation with a gynecologist and only after they have been tested ( and turned out to be ineffective.) other methods.

Increased lactation with folk remedies and herbs ( nettle, dill, fennel) at home

To stimulate lactation, you can use folk recipes based on the use of various herbal ingredients ( herbs, berries and so on).

To improve lactation, you can take:

Infusion of nettle leaves. To prepare the infusion, you need to grind 50 grams of fresh nettle leaves and pour 500 ml of boiling water over them. Insist for 2 hours, then strain and take 1 tablespoon orally half an hour before meals.
Infusion of dill seeds. Chopped dill seeds ( 20 grams) should be poured with 200 ml of boiling water and infused for an hour. Strain and take orally 1 tablespoon 10-15 minutes before meals.
Fennel infusion. To prepare the infusion, 1 tablespoon of fennel seeds should be poured with 1 cup of boiling water or boiled milk and infused for 2 hours. Then the resulting infusion must be filtered and taken orally for 3 doses ( morning, afternoon and evening 10-15 minutes before meals).

Teas for lactation ( hipp, humana, lactovite)

To increase lactation, you can use teas from various plants and herbs, which include components that enhance milk production.

To increase lactation, you can take:

Tea with fennel and dill. To prepare this tea, you need to mix 10 grams ( half a tablespoon) fennel and dill seeds, pour boiling water over them, cover and leave for 10 - 15 minutes. The resulting tea can be drunk at a time or divided into several doses.
Human tea. Tea can be purchased at the pharmacy. It consists of a collection of herbs and vitamins that stimulate milk production. To prepare 1 serving of tea, pour 3 teaspoons of granules with boiling water and insist for 10-15 minutes.
Hippie tea. This is the commercial name of the drug, which includes extracts of many herbs that stimulate lactation ( in particular herbs of fennel, anise, galega, nettle and so on). The drug is produced in the form of granules. To prepare tea, 2 teaspoons of granules should be poured with 200 ml of boiling water and infused for 10-15 minutes.
Tea is lactic. The composition of this tea also includes extracts of anise, cumin, dill, fennel and nettle. Tea is produced in convenient bags, which you just need to pour 200 ml of boiling water. Brewed tea should be taken 100 ml 2 times a day ( morning and evening).

It is worth noting that the listed teas practically do not affect the quality of breast milk and do not change its taste, so they will not harm the mother or baby in any way.

How to establish lactation after caesarean section?

A caesarean section is an operation during which the baby is removed from the mother's uterus by artificial means ( not through the natural birth canal). If the operation is performed on time ( that is, if the child is full-term), the mother should not have problems with lactation, since the mammary glands are already prepared to produce milk. It is extremely important that immediately after removing the child ( within the first 30 minutes) he was placed on his mother's breast ( at least for a few seconds). This will calm the woman, and also stimulates the production of the hormone prolactin and the formation of milk. In the future, the maintenance of lactation does not differ from that during natural childbirth.

If the caesarean section was performed earlier ( that is, if the baby is premature), a woman may experience problems with lactation, that is, a lack of milk. This is due to the fact that the mammary glands have not yet had time to prepare for the production of milk, since the child was removed from the womb prematurely. In this case, it is also recommended to attach the baby to the breast immediately after extraction from the uterus, which will contribute to the production of prolactin. In the future, the baby should be applied to the breast regularly ( several times a day). Even if there is no milk at the same time, such a procedure will speed up the process of preparing the mammary glands for lactation. In addition, these women may be prescribed medications, teas, or other lactation-stimulating drugs ( described earlier).

Is it possible to restore lactation after a break in feeding?

It is possible to restore lactation after a break, but this may require a lot of effort.

The reasons for a break in lactation can be:

Mother's illnesses. Some diseases ( mastitis - inflammation of the mammary gland, hormonal disorders, pronounced nervous experiences, stress, and so on) may be accompanied by the disappearance of milk. In addition, with some infectious diseases, breastfeeding is also not recommended.
Taking certain medications. When using a number of medicines, it is impossible to feed a child with breast milk, since with it medicines can enter the baby's body and cause a number of complications.
Travel / work. During long business trips, it is impossible to regularly breastfeed a child, and therefore lactation disorders may develop.

If the break in feeding is not associated with lactation disorders, it is recommended to express milk regularly, which can then be given to the child ( if at this time the woman is not taking any medication) or just throw it away. This will help maintain lactation at the right level and quickly restore it if necessary. If during the break there was a weakening or complete cessation of lactation, it may take some time to restore it.

The restoration of lactation after a break can be facilitated by:

Regular breastfeeding. Even if the baby does not start suckling immediately, and when sucking milk is not released, it is necessary to continue to do this day after day, as this procedure will help normalize hormonal levels ( that is, the production of prolactin and oxytocin) and the development of lactation.
Performing breast massage. Artificial irritation of the peripapillary zone receptors will also stimulate the production of hormones responsible for restoring lactation.
Taking medications that increase lactation. It can be both pharmacological preparations and folk remedies ( herbal teas, teas, etc.).

How to properly stop stop) breast milk lactation?

Natural cessation of breastfeeding should occur when the child reaches the age of 1-5 years ( ideally - 2 - 4 years). In order to properly wean a child from the breast and avoid the development of complications, a number of rules should be followed when stopping lactation.

To properly stop lactation, it is recommended:

Timely introduce complementary foods. After the child reaches the age of 6 months, he should begin to give complementary foods - various nutrient mixtures that will partially replace breast milk for him. At the same time, during breastfeeding, the baby will be satiated faster, as a result of which he will suckle less at the breast. This will be accompanied by a decrease in the production of the hormone prolactin and milk. After the child reaches the age of 12-18 months, he should be fed regular food ( nutritional mixtures, cereals and so on), but only as an additional source of nutrition to give breast milk ( no more than 2 - 3 times a day). In the future, the child should be breastfed less and less.

Wean the baby off the breast. When breastfeeding is stopped, some children may become whiny, nervous, and regularly demand the breast. Feeding an older child older than a year) breast milk at his first request should not be, since in this case it will be extremely difficult to stop lactation. It is important to provide him with adequate nutrition through complementary foods or other food, and when the child requires a breast, give him a pacifier ( pacifier).
Express "excess" milk. It is extremely important to prevent stagnation of milk in the mammary gland and the development of associated complications ( in particular severe pain, infection, and so on). This is why breast milk is sometimes recommended ( not often, no more than 1 - 2 times a day) express.
Use medication to stop lactation. If the baby has already weaned from the breast, and milk continues to be produced, you can take special medications that will slow down or completely stop milk production by the mammary glands.

Rapid Discontinuation Tablets ( completion) lactation ( cabergoline, dostinex, bergolac, agalates, bromocriptine)

As mentioned earlier, to stop lactation, you can take special pills. Their mechanism of action is that they all stimulate dopamine receptors located at the level of the central nervous system ( in the pituitary gland). As a result, the production of the hormone prolactin is suppressed, which entails the inhibition of milk production by the mammary glands.

To stop lactation, you can use:

Cabergoline ( dostinex, bergolac, agalates). To suppress lactation immediately after childbirth, take 2 tablets of 500 mg. To suppress lactation that has already begun, the drug should be taken 250 mg 2 times a day for 2 days in a row.
Bromocriptine. Inside, 1.25 - 2.5 mg every 8 - 12 hours. The duration of treatment is determined by the doctor.

How to stop lactation without pills ( with the help of folk remedies - herbs of sage and mint)?

To reduce the amount of milk produced, it is not necessary to take drugs that have a large number of side effects. To do this, you can use folk recipes, that is, infusions and decoctions from various plants.

To reduce lactation, you can use:

Infusion of sage herb. 2 full tablespoons of chopped sage herb should be poured with 500 ml of boiling water and infused for 3 to 4 hours. The cooled infusion should be filtered and taken orally 100 ml ( half a glass) 3 times a day, 15-20 minutes before meals. A decrease in lactation will be noticeable within 2 to 3 days after the start of using the infusion.
Sage tea. 2 teaspoons of sage herb should be poured into 100 ml of boiling water, infused for 10-15 minutes and taken orally. This tea can be drunk up to 4-5 times a day ( at the same time, it is not recommended to combine the intake of tea with the intake of sage infusion).
Infusion of mint leaves. 1 tablespoon chopped mint leaves should be poured into 1 cup ( 200 ml) boiling water and insist for 2 hours. Then the infusion should be filtered and taken orally 100 ml ( half a glass) 2 times a day ( morning and evening) after meal.

Camphor oil to stop lactation

During the interruption of lactation should be regularly ( 1 - 2 times a day) lubricate the nipple and peripapillary region of the mammary gland with camphor oil, rubbing it lightly for 1 to 2 minutes. Camphor oil allows you to wean a child from breastfeeding, and also alleviates the pain experienced by the mother during this period.

The mechanism of action of camphor oil is due to:

Pungent smell. If you apply oil to the nipple area, the characteristic unpleasant odor will "scare" the child, as a result of which he will lose the desire to suckle the breast.
Warming action. By irritating the skin receptors at the site of application, the oil creates a feeling of warmth in the peripapillary zone, which to a certain extent reduces the severity of pain in the mammary glands associated with milk stagnation observed during weaning.
Antibacterial action. Applying oil to the nipple area helps prevent the development of infectious complications in the presence of nipple cracks, as well as with a predisposition to the development of mastitis ( breast inflammation).

Is it possible to bind drag) mammary glands to prevent lactation?

The essence of this procedure is that the mammary glands are tightly bandaged with elastic bandages, pressing them to the chest. This disrupts the process of outflow of breast milk from the lobules of the mammary glands, contributing to its stagnation. This increases the concentration of the so-called inhibitor substance, which partially inhibits the production of new milk. It should be noted that in the past this technique was very popular, as it allowed relatively quickly ( within 5 - 7 days) completely suppress lactation.

To date, gynecologists do not recommend bandaging the mammary glands, as this is associated with a number of side effects ( in particular, the risk of developing infectious complications and inflammation of the mammary gland increases). In addition, when performing this procedure, a woman may also experience severe pain associated with milk production and overflow of the breast lobules, which will also cause her some trouble. It is much easier and safer to stop lactation naturally, and if you need a quick result, you can take special pills or use the folk recipes described earlier.

Before use, you should consult with a specialist.

According to statistics, about 15% of married couples in our country are infertile. After unsuccessful attempts to give birth to their own child, some of them decide on such a responsible step as adoption, or resort to the help of a surrogate mother. Most often, the baby is taken to the family in infancy, when breastfeeding is very important for him. And it turns out that the foster mother is able to provide the baby with such an opportunity by artificially inducing lactation in her body.

What is induced lactation

Induced lactation is the process of formation of breast milk in a woman, not associated with pregnancy and childbirth. The key factor here will be the great desire of the mother herself. A woman who has never become pregnant, if she really wants to, is able to use certain methods to induce lactation in her body in order to become closer to her adopted baby. After all, there are cases when, during the Great Patriotic War, the older sister, who was 17 years old, breastfed her newborn brother, while their mother died. Also often these children were fed by their grandmothers.

Breast milk is produced by the mammary glands under the action of pituitary hormones. This gland is located in the brain and is controlled by higher nervous activity. That is why the feelings and emotions of a woman are able to influence the process of lactation (both positively and negatively). If a woman has tender maternal feelings for an adopted child, is firmly convinced of the need for breastfeeding, then she will be able to achieve lactation.

Almost all women are able to physically breastfeed their children. The exception is only 0.5-1% - those who suffer from oncology or have rare birth defects that disrupt the mechanism of milk production. It is only necessary to properly organize this process. For the induction of lactation, the interaction of the mother with experienced medical professionals, as well as the correct behavior of other family members, who must support her in everything, plays an important role.

Induced lactation should be under the supervision of a competent physician

Breastfeeding is very important not only in the physiological, but also in the psychological aspect. This intimate process strongly connects a woman with a child, contributes to the awakening of maternal feelings in her.

Breastfeeding will help a woman get as close as possible to a foster baby

What will help induce lactation without pregnancy

In order for a nulliparous woman to have breast milk, special conditions are necessary. The main factor is the constant mechanical stimulation of the mother's breast by the baby. If these measures are not enough, doctors prescribe hormone therapy: a woman takes certain doses of estrogen, progesterone, prolactin, etc.

Video: how lactation works

Mechanical breast stimulation

To provoke an influx of milk, the mother should put the baby to the breast as often as possible, even if it is still empty. After some time, the first precious drops will appear, after which the woman needs to express herself regularly, even if it is only a couple of milliliters of liquid. These measures will help to "rock" lactation.

The most frequent application of the baby to the breast will help "rock" lactation

The process will go easier and faster if the following factors are present.

The baby is not yet three months old. In this case, it will be easier for him to remember the reflex ability to properly grasp the chest.
The baby already has experience sucking at the breast.
Before adoption, the child was regularly picked up - there is an experience of bodily contact (“skin to skin”).
Baby is not bottle trained. After all, if a child drank from it for a certain time (even expressed breast milk), then, of course, he would prefer a nipple to a breast.
A dummy was not used to soothe the child. After all, when sucking it, the baby does not open his mouth wide, his facial muscles quickly get tired when sucking the breast. Accustomed to a pacifier, it is difficult for a baby to wean from it, and he will not take the female nipple so actively.

The breast should be offered to the child at least once every 2-3 hours. In this case, the baby must be fed at night. This is important because the hormone prolactin, which is directly responsible for milk production, reaches its peak of activity at this time of day.

It is very important to arouse in the child the very desire to be attached to the mother's breast. Therefore, he must necessarily receive a reward in the form of food for his efforts. To do this, at the very beginning of the process, you should feed the baby with an artificial mixture in accordance with the weight of the crumbs and his daily needs. Moreover, this food is given to the child in the process of sucking the mother's breast, while it is still empty. Pediatricians suggest using a special device for this purpose - a reservoir with liquid and a tube (thin and flexible) that is brought to the mother's nipple (the use of bottles is unacceptable).

Through a thin tube, the artificial mixture from the tank is brought to the mother's nipple

During feeding, the baby grabs the tip of the tube, while actively stimulating the breast. In this case, the parts of the woman's brain responsible for the production of hormones are included in the process, and lactation awakens. The resulting milk will gradually displace the artificial mixture from the diet.

Of course, the feeding system should be kept clean by sterilizing it before each use. It is unacceptable to store unused mixture in the tank. It is also important to regulate the flow of fluid - it should not be too strong, otherwise the child will quickly be satiated and will not stimulate the breast. The rate of food intake should be close to natural, such as during breastfeeding. To do this, you can change the height of the container (lowering or raising it), as well as pinch the probe with your finger. Sometimes the role of the reservoir is performed by a large-volume syringe, on which a tube is put on instead of a needle. A mixture is squeezed out of it drop by drop. The syringes are changed until the baby is full.

For one feeding, which lasts about half an hour, the mother offers the baby both breasts. All these points to the woman should be explained in detail by the pediatrician. At first, the mother may need an assistant who will introduce the probe to the child and regulate the flow of fluid.

The following measures will help speed up the formation of lactation.

Frequent and prolonged contact with the child. This sets the woman up for breastfeeding, and also helps to relieve her psychological stress. Mom will clearly capture the moments when the baby is ready to take the breast. During the day, you can carry your baby in your arms or in a sling. Eye-to-eye contact is very important.
Relatives should help a woman physically and psychologically. All household chores (cleaning, cooking, ironing) are removed from the mother, if possible, so that she has more time to rest and sleep well. Criticism, reproaches are unacceptable, on the contrary, the husband and other relatives should admire the woman and encourage her in every possible way.
Breastfeeding must be correct. Then the stimulation will be effective, will not cause pain and injury to the nipples.
A woman should pay attention to aids designed to increase lactation. This is appropriate nutrition, drinking regimen, the use of lactogenic teas, breast massage.
Use a breast pump between feedings. Even if there is still very little milk, after each application of the baby, you need to express both breasts (each should be given about 10 minutes). By the way, at first pumping can be manual.

Pumping is a mandatory measure to stimulate lactation

Taking medications to stimulate lactation

To stimulate lactation, a doctor may prescribe hormone therapy to a woman. The success of this method to some extent depends on how much time the mother has before the adoption of the baby. First, you should take hormones to simulate pregnancy (this is estrogen and progesterone in certain combinations), and then lactogenic drugs.

While taking hormones, a woman has characteristic symptoms of pregnancy: nausea, weight gain, etc. In turn, the breast becomes more sensitive, enlarges - it prepares for feeding the baby. The duration of such therapy is at least six weeks. Then the intake of estrogen and progesterone abruptly stops - the body is deceived, as if childbirth had occurred.

After that, the woman begins to use drugs based on domperidone, the most popular of which is Motilium (analogs - Damelium, Domet, Domstal, Motilak, Motonium, Passaginax). The main purpose of these drugs is to eliminate nausea. As a side effect of domperidone, the activity of dopamine receptors decreases, which leads to an increase in prolactin levels. As a result, the woman has breast milk.

Motilium is a drug based on domperidone, which causes an increase in prolactin in the female body.

As for the dose of the drug, it is usually taken no more than 4 times a day (20 mg each time), most often 30 mg 3 times a day (90 mg in total). It is important that in each case the dosage is determined by the attending physician.

Domperidone is best absorbed on an empty stomach, so it is best to take it half an hour before meals.

A woman's milk begins to stand out approximately 2-4 weeks after the start of the intake. The duration of domperidone use is also individual, on average no more than eight weeks, but some mothers need to take it for the entire period of breastfeeding (to maintain milk production).

Withdrawal from the drug should be gradual. A woman reduces the daily dose by one tablet, observing her lactation for a week. If there is no decrease in milk production, then you can continue to reduce the dose. If at a certain stage lactation is reduced, then you can return to the previous regimen for a while (for example, two weeks).

The consequences of inducing lactation with drugs in nulliparous

Hormone therapy should always be taken very seriously, because these drugs often cause serious side effects. So, women suffering from varicose veins, having liver and kidney diseases, problems with blood clotting, etc., are contraindicated in taking estrogen. Other side effects of such therapy that negatively affect the quality of life: the appearance of fatigue, unreasonable anxiety, mood swings (from anger to depression), insomnia, dizziness, headaches, decreased sexual desire. In addition, hormonal drugs often cause weight gain: the body believes that pregnancy is taking place, therefore it strives to get food for two.

Mood Swings - An Unpleasant Side Effect of Using Hormone Therapy

Taking hormones is simply unacceptable without proper medical supervision.

As for domperidone, the decrease in dopamine (the hormone of pleasure) also negatively affects the mood of the mother. Some women experience sleep problems and anxiety when taking it. Other possible (though rare) side effects are headache, dry mouth, and abdominal cramps.

It is quite possible to induce lactation without pregnancy - if desired, a foster mother can achieve the appearance of breast milk and feed the child. Of course, this process is not very fast, but a woman must be patient. The first drops of milk will help to believe in one's own strength, and physical contact with the baby will bring a lot of positive emotions. Gradually, lactation will improve, and the baby will be able to receive the most valuable food for his age.

All important points about features lactation should be known not only to young mothers, but also to those who are just waiting for the baby to be born. After all, mom should be "armed" with information about what it is, what it is lactation crises and what they might be related to. The article will discuss what lactation is in women, as well as how to improve milk lactation in a nursing mother.

A woman should understand that lactation is a natural process that every mother can establish. And she should try to do it. After all, only 0.01% of women have contraindications to breastfeeding. Breastfeeding is very important for a baby. Breastfeeding not only ensures the health of the baby's gastrointestinal tract, stimulates the immune system, but also makes it possible to quickly and very closely build that contact, which is very important for both the child and his mother.

Lactation as a physiological process

So, lactation is an absolutely natural process, involving the production, accumulation and secretion of milk by the female mammary glands. Since lactation is regulated by many, it is a hormone-dependent process.

Produces a hormone , which is "responsible" for stimulating milk production by the glandular tissue of the female breast. Gradually, milk accumulates, and when the baby suckles the breast, a hormone is released in the body that determines muscle contraction in the milky passages. Thus, the production of milk in the glands is stimulated.

In addition, women who practice breastfeeding recover faster after. Indeed, under the influence of oxytocin, the uterus contracts more actively, and its involution accelerates, and bleeding after childbirth stops faster than in women who do not breastfeed.

Immediately after the birth of the baby, colostrum begins to stand out from the mammary glands, which the newborn eats. It happens that even before the birth of a child, small amounts are excreted from the breast. However, doctors warn that it is not necessary to squeeze colostrum from the breast before the baby is born. Indeed, with such manipulations, the production of oxytocin in the body is stimulated, and this, in turn, can provoke uterine contractions and premature birth.

For a baby, colostrum is very nutritious. In addition, it contains, which are very important for the health of the baby. Colostrum contains globulins and, not splitting in the gastrointestinal tract. They are absorbed in the intestines.

Approximately 3-5 days milk appears in place of colostrum.

A woman who has just given birth should not worry about how to feed if not enough colostrum . In the first days of life, a small amount of colostrum is enough for a newborn, and it is not necessary to supplement it with a mixture, since this can subsequently disrupt the process of lactation in a woman.

Almost every mother periodically thinks about the fact that the child may not have enough of the mother's milk that he receives. This belief is a very widespread mistake. And sometimes, succumbing to her fears and trying to feed or water the child, a woman loses breastfeeding.

The concept of "lactation crisis" really frightens a nursing mother and makes her think about how to maintain lactation. But there is nothing extraordinary in such a phenomenon, and if you treat what is happening correctly, it is quite possible to preserve natural feeding.

lactation crisis This is the period when the amount of breast milk is temporarily reduced. It is important to understand that this is a completely natural phenomenon, and if you carefully follow all the rules, then lactation will not be disturbed. In women, hormonal changes occur, and it is with this that the lactation crisis is associated. The periods, terms of this phenomenon are different for different women - the crisis occurs at different times. But most often this happens in the following periods after childbirth:

after 7-14 days;
after 30-35 days;
in three or three and a half months.

At this time under the influence hormones the amount of milk may decrease slightly, which is a variant of the norm. However, the endocrine system in each organism functions differently, and therefore the periods of crises are different for everyone.

The duration of the crisis is 3-8 days. On average, it lasts 5 days. At this time, the most important thing is not to worry about the fact that the amount of milk cannot be added. There is no need to worry about the fact that the baby is starving - the child will have enough of the milk that is produced. It is important not to succumb to the persuasion of "well-wishers" and not to start feeding the baby with mixtures. If you follow the rules, which will be discussed below, lactation will soon be restored.

How to increase lactation of breast milk?

There are some actionable recommendations for a nursing mother on how to increase lactation while breastfeeding and establish this process. It is also important to take into account when lactation is established - this happens at about 3-4 months. In the first months, a woman may notice that the mammary glands swell, that there is too much or too little milk. When the process is established, there will be an increase in milk lactation during breastfeeding, but milk will be produced directly during feeding, and the breast will not “pour”.

That is, the amount of milk directly depends solely on the production prolactin . If a woman has not yet established lactation, and the question of how to increase the lactation of breast milk is relevant for her, you need to follow very simple but effective recommendations. In this case, it will be possible to quickly return everything and continue to feed the child.

Practice feeding on demand

Feeding on demand will help increase the amount of breast milk in a nursing mother. There is no need to feed the baby according to the regimen, because the baby himself “regulates” the mode of eating and sleeping. Sometimes the baby demands to “return” the breast within 20-30 minutes after feeding. Sometimes he sleeps peacefully for five hours in a row.

Breastfeed as often as possible

You should try to apply the baby as a breast as often as possible. It does not matter how long the baby sucks. After all, the very act of sucking helps to activate the production of hormones, in particular, prolactin And oxytocin . That is, the answer to the question of how to increase lactation is simple: you need to apply the baby to the breast as often as possible.

Sometimes mothers worry about the fact that the child has been suckling for several hours at the breast. But there is no cause for concern here. Indeed, after the birth of a baby, when the connection that connected him with his mother before childbirth is interrupted, close contact with her is very important for the child. By frequently sucking on the breast, the baby more easily overcomes the stress experienced after birth and gets used to the world that surrounds him. Lying at the mother's breast, the baby only periodically sucks it. It happens that the child “holds” the breast for several hours, not wanting to let go of his mother. In addition, at first - about three months after birth - the baby is tormented, and closeness to his mother calms him down and alleviates his condition.

Be sure to breastfeed at night

Moms who are interested in how to increase breast milk lactation should definitely breastfeed their baby at night. Teaching a baby to sleep through the night almost from birth is the wrong approach. After all, a baby up to a year old can wake up to eat at night, and this is considered normal. At first, it is very important to feed him at night, since it is at night that the content of prolactin . And if the baby suckles at the breast during this time, the amount of milk produced will increase. Therefore, the answer to the question of how to increase lactation for a nursing mother is simple: do not ignore night feedings.

Homeopathy

There is no consensus on whether homeopathic remedies are effective in increasing breast milk lactation. Such drugs have not undergone the necessary research in terms of evidence-based medicine, so there is no reason to definitely talk about their positive effect. But still, many doctors whom women ask what to drink to increase the amount of milk claim that it will not be worse from such measures. After all, the so-called " ”, and lactation is really getting better in nursing mothers. It is possible that under the influence of these drugs, the production of prolactin .

Products that activate lactation

When asked about what to do to increase the amount of milk, our mothers and grandmothers are likely to advise eating certain foods. However, in fact, the products do not affect the level in any way. prolactin , respectively, and they do not affect lactation. But fluid intake is very important, so you should not limit yourself in this. A young mother should drink as much liquid as she wants. However, it is also impossible to pour water into the body “through force”. You just need to listen to the body and not allow the appearance of a feeling of strong thirst.

Those who are looking for products that increase the lactation of milk of a nursing mother need to know that it is pointless to ask about what to eat so that there is a lot of milk.

Drink enough clean water

Sometimes when asked for recommendations on what to eat to have more milk, they advise drinking more cow's milk. But in fact, this advice can hardly be called correct, because cow's milk does not affect prolactin production.

But cow's milk can be harmful. Proteins, getting into breast milk, can provoke a strong baby. In addition, after a nursing mother consumes fermented milk products or cow's milk, the baby may develop severe colic. Therefore, you should pay attention not to which products increase the amount of milk, but to use other methods described above.

What mistakes do new mothers make?

Young parents should also be aware that they can make certain mistakes that lead to a deterioration in lactation.

You should not set the feeding regime - the baby should eat on demand

The kid must “decide” when exactly and how much he wants to eat. One of the main mistakes of women who are worried about how to improve lactation if there is not enough milk is additional feeding of the baby with a mixture. Starting to supplement the child, the mother makes a very serious mistake. Such hasty actions lead to unpleasant consequences. Having "tasted" the mixture, the baby may refuse to breastfeed altogether, because sucking the mixture from a bottle is much easier than "extracting" breast milk. In addition, the taste of the mixture is different - it is sweeter, and it may seem to the child that bottled food is tastier. As a result, the baby will refuse to breastfeed, and it will not be possible to establish lactation after childbirth.

In addition, the introduction of the mixture will lead to the manifestation of pain in the tummy, colic that will constantly disturb a baby with an immature intestine. Such actions can lead not only to a complete loss of lactation, but also to the manifestation of allergic reactions.

Therefore, if a nursing mother has little milk, what to do, it is better to ask a specialist, and not friends and relatives.

No need to give water to a baby-baby before the introduction of complementary foods

Very often you can hear the opinion that milk is the food of the baby, and he also needs water. This opinion is erroneous, because breast milk consists mainly of water - 80-90%. And under any weather conditions - both in summer and during the heating period - this liquid is enough for the baby for normal development and well-being. Therefore, instead of trying to feed the baby with a spoon, it is better to give him the breast once again.

And if the baby drinks even a few tablespoons of water, his ventricle will quickly fill up, and the signal about its filling will immediately go to the brain. Accordingly, because of this, the baby will miss feeding.

Water is given to the child only after the start of the gradual introduction of complementary foods, that is, after he reaches six months. By the way, cases when a baby begins to lose weight precisely because of supplementation are not uncommon. After all, due to the consumption of water, the baby receives less milk.

Of course, this rule does not apply to "artificial" children - they need to be given some water.

Do not assume that the baby is always crying from hunger.

A small person can cry for a variety of reasons. If he does not take the breast and at the same time cries, then it is quite possible that the whole thing is in the pain in the tummy. The child may also have a headache, and night or evening tantrums may indicate an increase intracranial pressure at the breast. In addition, he may cry because of the discomfort associated with a wet diaper, due to the fact that his teeth are starting to cut. In the end, the baby may simply want to go to his mother in order to feel protected.

No need to assume that there is no milk in soft breasts

Milk production is activated during feeding. And if, before the next feeding, the mother does not feel that the breast has hardened, this is good, since there is no likelihood of development lactostasis . This indicates that lactation has already been established.

No need to express milk after breastfeeding

Pumping should be practiced only under the condition of development lactostasis . Indeed, in this case, the most nutritious milk is lost. Alternatively, it is better to once again attach the baby to the breast.

You do not need to pay attention to the norms of weight gain, which were paid attention to earlier

Modern medicine operates with comparative tables that take into account the height, weight, age of the baby. According to the old schemes, the child should gain 1 kilogram of weight in the first month. But these schemes have been used for a long time and they are more relevant for children who receive artificial nutrition. For babies, these standards are not suitable at all.

Do not give your baby a pacifier

Naturally, the baby should not suck on anything other than the breast. A pacifier is a kind of “anti-stress” for a mother, because she gives such a pacifier to a baby when he cries and cannot calm down. However, in reality, the baby does not need a pacifier at all. And a woman can determine the reason for crying, which experienced mothers do quite well. As for the sucking reflex, breast sucking completely satisfies him. In addition, it must be taken into account that later it will be difficult to wean the child from the pacifier. And in any case, he will survive the stress of "separation" from his beloved nipple.

No need to introduce complementary foods too early

Until the age of 6 months, the baby is quite enough natural feeding. Any new food before this age should not be given to him. After all, at this age in the baby's body there are only those that digest breast milk.

Control weighing is not an indicator

Some mothers, for whom the question is relevant, how to understand that the child does not have enough milk during breastfeeding, practice the so-called control weighing. That is, in order to understand that the baby does not have enough milk and determine how much he ate, he is weighed before and after feeding. However, this method is not indicative, and so it will not be possible to determine whether he has enough food. After all, a baby can get his daily norm for 10-12 feedings. That is, he can take the breast often and eat little by little.

In addition, the child each time eats a different amount of milk. Therefore, for those who are interested in how to find out if the baby is getting enough breast milk, this method is not suitable. After all, sometimes the indicator on the scales can provoke a real panic in an inexperienced mother.

conclusions

Thus, almost every mother is able to practice full-fledged breastfeeding. If a woman is worried about the amount of milk and questions about what to do if it is not enough, you should first of all pay attention to the condition of the baby. If he behaves calmly, develops and grows normally, then he is fully provided with food.

Those who are interested in how to understand whether a newborn has enough milk should also pay attention to how many times a day the baby urinates and walks “in a big way”. If the baby defecates 1-6 times, and at the same time the stool is homogeneous, and urinates 10-15 times, then everything is fine with him. A well-nourished child has rosy clear skin and sleeps well.

But if a woman still has some anxiety, you should contact your pediatrician and consult with him about this.

The concept and phenomenon of "lactation" is familiar to every woman, especially pregnant or already having a small crumb. In simple words, lactation is the formation of milk in the breast of a future or nursing mother, as well as its accumulation and subsequent excretion. Active milk production begins already during pregnancy. Proof of this is the secretion of colostrum, which begins already in the second trimester of pregnancy. Each woman has individual characteristics of lactation: for some women, its duration can be several years, while for others it disappears already a few months after the birth of a child.

Lactation: what is it? What contributes to the production of breast milk?

Several hormones are involved in the production of breast milk. oxytocin and prolactin who bear full responsibility for this phenomenon. Prolactin stimulates milk production, and oxytocin, in turn, is a conductor that allows milk to come out.

In order for breast milk to be sufficient and contain all the nutrients necessary for the baby, it is necessary that the young mother adhere to a healthy lifestyle, try not to overwork, and also eat a balanced diet of quality food.

It is worth noting that the more milk a child consumes, the more active the mammary glands will produce it.

Stages of lactation

In the mammary glands, blood elements begin to actively accumulate, contributing to and directly involved in the production of milk.
The elements accumulated from the lymph take part in the synthesis of breast milk components, which occurs in the secretory cells of the mammary glands.
Synthesis products are formed and increase their concentration in the cytoplasm of secretory cells.
The final stage of lactation - full-fledged breast milk enters the alveoli of the mammary glands.

Each of the existing stages of lactation begins during pregnancy, with the exception of the last. The secretion of breast milk begins shortly after the completion of labor. What determines lactation at the end of pregnancy? All the same hormones - oxytocin and prolactin, which were actively released during pregnancy.

Physiology and process of lactation in women

Physiology

As we said earlier, the hormone prolactin is fully responsible for the production of breast milk:

Every time a mother puts her baby to her breast, the nerve endings of the nipple are actively stimulated, after which a signal is sent to the brain about where this hormone is actually produced.
Prolactin is secreted in large volumes at night, so feeding during this period helps maintain the required amount of milk.

The hormone oxytocin is responsible for the secretion of breast milk.

During the attachment of the child to the breast, the nerve endings of the nipples are stimulated, which forces the woman's body to actively produce oxytocin.
The production of the hormone is well stimulated by thoughts about the baby, its smell and appearance.
Stress, pain syndromes, self-doubt and constant doubts interfere with the formation of the hormone.

The process of excretion of breast milk has another name - "oxytocin reflex":

Its symptoms are as follows:

smooth, but deep sucking and swallowing by the child, which indicates the flow of milk into the oral cavity of the child;
copious discharge of milk in a thin stream at the moment when the child suddenly came off the breast;
painful spasms formed as a result of uterine contraction;
copious discharge of milk from the nipple while the baby is attached to the other breast;
slight leakage of milk shortly before the baby begins to suck on the nipple;
a feeling of fullness and warmth in the area of the mammary glands;
possible tingling in the chest before or during feeding.

It is also worth noting that the shape and size of the breasts of a young mother does not at all affect the quantity and quality of milk secreted. The amount of milk produced depends solely on the stimulation of the breasts, as well as how often it is emptied.

Process

So, as we said earlier, Every woman's lactation process is different.. In most cases, immediately after childbirth, a small amount is released from the breast. colostrum. But subsequent production depends on the emotional and physical state of the woman in labor, as well as on the amount of hormones produced, the course of childbirth and the quality of nutrition of the young mother.

There are cases when women have a sharp influx of milk on the second day after childbirth, but in most cases a gradual increase is observed.

During the first pregnancy, there are quite often cases when the lactation period occurs 5 to 7 days after birth. In these cases, it is worth resorting to methods that support and establish lactation. But as you know, Hormones play a major role in milk production.

It is worth noting that special attention should be paid to proper feeding of the newborn. This contributes to the production of the required amount of milk. If you nullify the feeding of the baby or rarely apply it to the breast, then the volume of lactation produced will decline. But you can not overdo it in feeding - remaining milk must be expressed.

During the first month of feeding a baby, not only the quantity, but also the quality of lactation is significantly reduced. The first two weeks of lactation belong to the preparatory stage, and already with the onset of 10-13 weeks, the mature stage begins.

Lactation is the most important segment for a child, which includes all the necessary nutrients, vitamins, macro-microelements. Even the most popular and high-quality infant formulas are significantly inferior to the quality of breast milk. Lactation is a natural physiological process that a child needs for its harmonious development.

How to set lactation? Foods that affect lactation

With lactation dysfunction, you can resort to one of several ways that will normalize the production of breast milk: with the help of specially designed drugs or naturally. It is recommended to use the first method only if the second method did not bring the desired result, which includes good nutrition, a healthy lifestyle, and only after a doctor's recommendation.

It is worth pointing out that during lactation, a young mother should drink plenty of fluids, at least two liters during the day. You need to carefully consider your diet, from which you need to exclude all harmful foods. The obligatory components of the nurse's diet should be:

fermented milk products: yogurt, cottage cheese, fermented baked milk, kefir or yogurt;
nuts;
protein products: eggs;
seafood: carp, pollock, carp, pike perch or hake;
low-fat meat varieties: rabbit, veal or chicken.

From the diet of a young mother, it is necessary to exclude:

vegetables, berries and fruits that can contribute to the development of allergies: raspberries, black currants, strawberries, citrus fruits, tomato;
carbonated drinks;
products containing dyes and additives, preservatives;
spices;
roast;
fatty.

Ways to increase lactation

Insufficient breast milk production it is recommended to take hot baths and do breast massage. While taking a shower, it is necessary to direct a jet of warm water to the chest, while making circular movements with the hand. Bathing, with the right approach, is not only a pleasant procedure, but also useful.

You can resort to a folk recipe: drink hot tea along with condensed milk and halva and within a few minutes feel a surge of milk in your chest.

If all of the above methods did not give the desired result, then you need to go for a consultation with a specialist who, as a result of the examination, will prescribe the necessary drugs that stimulate lactation.

Drugs that increase lactation

To date, there are a wide variety of drugs that help increase lactation. Perhaps the most sought after of them are teas, which include minerals, vitamins and herbs.

Some young mothers begin to self-medicate by preparing various mixtures. We strongly recommend that you start taking the agreed decoctions and teas only after visiting a specialist.

The composition of teas for lactation includes the following herbs: fennel, dill, nettle,. A nursing mother can use them separately. All teas and infusions must be taken warm, as warm drinks contribute to the active production of milk.

Sports during lactation

Of course, playing sports is extremely useful, but after childbirth, it is necessary to approach physical exercises very competently listening carefully to your body, how it reacts to certain exercises.

Basic principles of playing sports during lactation:

It is recommended to start classes with small loads. If the birth took place without any complications and in a natural way, then you can start physical activity already a few weeks after the birth of the crumbs.
First of all, it is recommended to pay attention to exercises that help strengthen the abdominal muscles. They allow you to bring the muscles into tone, get rid of the consequences of a constant load on the spine, and also return the muscles of the uterus to their original position.
After a week or two, you can add body turns, arm swings, tilts, and squats. Exercises for the abdominal muscles need to be strengthened.
In parallel, it is recommended to start performing exercises to strengthen the pectoral muscles. Such exercises allow not only to maintain the shape of the breast, but also helps to increase lactation.

It is worth noting that all physical exercises are recommended to be done immediately after feeding, because during exercise, lactic acid is abundantly released, which can be contained in milk.

Water. During exercise, it is necessary to increase the amount of fluid consumed to compensate for its loss.
Physical exercise should bring joy. Do not exercise through force or if you are not in the mood.
Quiet mode. Exercise should not be overly strong or intense. Your main goal should not be to pump muscle mass, but to bring the body in order.