Breastfeeding supplements and support for milk supply
Breastfeeding supplements
Breastfeeding supplements are herbs or blends used alongside good feeding technique to help support milk supply and comfortable feeding. They can be a practical option if you are finding breastfeeding challenging or you are not producing as much milk as your baby needs.
Milk production is driven by demand, but stress, fatigue, illness, latching issues, and missed feeds can all affect flow. A helpful takeaway is to focus on frequent, effective breast emptying first, then consider breastfeeding supplements as an extra support if needed.
Some mothers face a shortage of milk right from the beginning of lactation or in the later stages when there simply isn’t enough of a milk supply. If this is the case, mothers are often advised to try feeding more often. However, this does not always work, and some mothers choose additional measures to support supply.
Blessed Thistle
This herb is traditionally used to support milk production and may help overall lactation support when paired with regular feeding. Some people also use it as part of a broader routine that includes hydration and steady meals.
Fenugreek
This remedy is commonly recommended to help support breast milk production due to naturally occurring fatty acids that may encourage milk flow. Fenugreek is often reported to support supply within 24 to 72 hours of taking the herb. It can be taken in capsules, tea, and cookies, depending on what suits you.
Feeding Cookies
Made here in NZ, Feeding Cookies contain fenugreek and fennel, 2 herbs often used to support breast milk. They are wheat and dairy free and would go well with a cup of Breastfeeding Tea, while feeding baby.
Milk Flow
This homeopathic remedy has been formulated to assist in establishing a regular flow of breast milk in the early days of breastfeeding. It may be of particular benefit to a breastfeeding woman following a shock or illness that has affected breast milk flow.
Remember, the more the baby suckles, the more milk should be produced - it is all about supply and demand. It is also important to empty the breast fully, so it can be replenished again. So if baby does not drink it all, expressing can help remove the rest.
FAQs
What are breastfeeding supplements?
Breastfeeding supplements are products like herbs, teas, or blends used to support lactation alongside regular feeding. They are most useful when they complement frequent, effective milk removal. Choose options that fit your routine, like capsules, tea, or food-based supports.
Do breastfeeding supplements increase milk supply?
Breastfeeding supplements may help support milk supply for some people, especially when supply is already being stimulated by regular feeding. Their impact varies because milk production is strongly tied to latch, frequency, and breast emptying. If you try them, pair them with consistent feeds and track changes over several days.
How quickly can fenugreek support milk supply?
Fenugreek is often reported to support milk supply within 24 to 72 hours, though results vary. It is commonly used because it may encourage milk flow through naturally occurring compounds. Start with a routine you can stick to and keep feeding frequently so supply has a clear signal to increase.
What is blessed thistle used for during breastfeeding?
Blessed thistle is traditionally used as a lactation herb to support milk production. It is often taken as part of a broader breastfeeding routine that includes hydration, nutrition, and regular feeding. If you use it, focus on consistent use for several days while maintaining frequent breast emptying.
Are feeding cookies helpful for breastfeeding?
Feeding cookies can be a convenient way to include lactation herbs like fenugreek and fennel. They may be helpful if they make it easier to keep up with calories and hydration during busy feeding days. Treat them as a support tool and keep prioritising latch and frequent feeds.
What can I do to improve milk flow besides supplements?
Milk flow often improves with more frequent feeding, good latch, and effective breast emptying. Warmth, gentle breast massage, and switching sides can also help stimulate let-down. If baby does not fully drain the breast, expressing after a feed can help signal your body to make more.
When should I seek breastfeeding support?
Seek breastfeeding support if feeding is painful, baby is not gaining weight as expected, or you are worried about supply even after trying breastfeeding supplements and frequent feeding. A lactation consultant or qualified health professional can check latch, positioning, and milk transfer. Getting help early can prevent ongoing stress and make feeding feel more manageable.