by Sheila Kingsbury, ND, RH (AHG)
One of the most common questions I get from new mothers is: “Am I making enough milk?” The concern over whether or not there is enough milk has snuck into the consciousness of new mothers, even when everything is going well. Sometimes it comes from a well-meaning grandmother or father who has no other explanation of why the baby is crying. Planting this seed of doubt often leads to excessive anxiety on the part of the mother, which can lead to other problems with bonding and successful lactation.
Care and sensitive encouragement of a new mother and baby can go a long way toward positively affecting hormones that govern milk supply. Making sure the baby is latching properly is also critical. Beyond these methods, herbal or pharmaceutical galactogogues may be considered (Marasco et al 2008). The goal of any approach to increasing milk supply should address the physical, social and hormonal dynamics in order to have the most success.