Nowadays we read pamphlets about the importance of breastfeeding but when it comes to practical application of the same, we as doctors are coming across more and more cases of low breast milk supply. Yesterday I encountered 3 such cases in a single day in our clinic, felt it’s essential to write in depth about this issue, as it’s certainly in the interest of our future genera.
Nothing can replace breast milk, and more importantly, no mammal in the entire world feeds its young with the milk of another animal. It is only a human who unnecessarily exercises his freedom of choice in the wrong way. This is a fact that is easily understood.
A condition where milk is not secreted in the mother’s breasts after her child is delivered is known as agalactia. It can be caused by a failure in milk production or a failure of milk let down.
Yes, the more you feed your baby, the more breast milk you will produce; however, low milk production can result from nutritional deficiencies in the mother or from infrequent feedings. Mothers frequently worry about how to increase breast milk. Establishing a good milk supply, in the beginning, can make a difference in how long the relationship lasts.
According to a recent study from the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (USA), only 16.3 percent of babies are exclusively breastfed at six months, and 25.5 percent are still receiving breast milk at 12 months, despite pediatricians’ recommendations that babies be breastfed for at least a year. The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, with continued breastfeeding up to two years and beyond.
Here are some justifications for why a mother should nurse:
Benefits to the baby:
. Promotes a baby’s growth, development, health, and immunity.
. Prevents issues like obesity in children.
Babies who are breastfed have a much higher level of resistance to allergies and infections than babies who are bottle fed.
. Make sure the mother and child share a strong bond.
Breastfed infants experience significantly fewer cases of vomiting and diarrhea during the teething process.
Babies who are breastfed have better-shaped dental structures, particularly their incisors.
reduced likelihood of developing adult diseases like diabetes, arthritis, and hypertension, etc.
The need for repeated antibiotic treatments in children with ear infections has also been shown to be reduced by breastfeeding.
Children who are breastfed experience fewer dental caries over their lifetime.
fewer emotional, behavioral, and psychological issues.
Benefits to the mother:
A mother who breastfeeds her child effectively has the ability to lose the pregnancy-related weight more quickly (breastfeeding releases the hormone oxytocin in the mother, which speeds up the return of the uterus to normal size).
Breastfeeding mothers have a lower risk of developing breast, uterine, and ovarian cancers, making it one of the most significant advantages. They are also less likely to develop osteoporosis later in life.
a deep emotional connection to the child.
Given these significant advantages, it goes without saying that every mother should breastfeed her child; however, why do so many patients visit us complaining that their milk supply is insufficient and their child must use a bottle?
It is impossible for a woman to produce less or no milk for her baby after giving birth, whether naturally or via cesarean section, unless there is some obvious physical or pathological reason. Let’s face it, this is the biggest myth women try to tell themselves.
Causes of Agalactia(No/less Milk):
A mother should begin feeding her baby as soon as possible after birth; delaying breastfeeding for too long is by far the most common reason for low milk production.
Breastfeed as frequently and as frequently as you can, or we can say breastfeed as often as your baby needs. Your growing bundle of joy may need the milk every half an hour, one hour, or two hours. When he/she cries for milk, feed them, at least for the first few months. That will surely work as a booster for the enhanced immunity.
Unawareness of the proper feeding methods—Although this is uncommon today, given that hospital staff take sufficient care about the proper feeding method to be thought to the newborn, having a thin pillow in your lap, etc., are some of the important tips that will allow your baby to suckle properly, which will enhance milk production.
Oral contraceptives, which can also negatively affect starting a good milk flow, should be avoided as much as possible, as can some medications like (over-the-counter) cold or flu remedies.
HOMOEOPATHIC MEDICINE
Pulsatilla– Helpful for women who are tearful and depressed who have suppressed milk.
Agnus castusUseful when a lactating child has no milk or milk that comes down slowly.
Asafoetida– Excellent when milk quality starts to deteriorate and appears later than expected after labor.
Lac can-Helpful for unidentified causes of breast inflammation and pain while nursing;
Lecithinum-An effective treatment for agalactia that boosts milk production and quality.
MillefoliumMilk does not come after labor, the most commonly advised treatment for agalactia.
Sticta pul-It increases milk production and eliminates suppression when there is a scant flow of milk.
Urtica urens-Extremely helpful for breast swellup and decreased milk secretion.
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