The weather these days is way too hot! Nat has been increasing her feeds to reduce her body heat. By evening my reservoir has reached its lowest ebb. Fustration kicks in as she tugs and pull to stimulate the flow. Have tried giving her water but all she could handle is 10 ml. She tends to zip her lips tight when I try to feed her anything more. Am feeling the impact of dehydration on my fingers. The skin around my cuticles are starting to peel & bleed slightly. Mum said I over washed my hands with soap. Normal hand moisturisers didn't work. Am resorting to oil oinments now. Hopefully there would be less flaking.
Anyway back to the topic on breastfeeding, I've increased my fish and water intake. Understand from an expert breastfeeder that fenugreek would help increase milk flow (Hey theresa, thanks for offering the tip). Out of desperation we've bought a bottle yesterday from GNC ( cost $29.90 a bottle). Am not sure whether it's the fish, water or fenugreek that's taking effect but it worked. The volume extracted by pump has increased! So I've decided to put this up on my blog and share it with those who are having difficulty coping with your baby's demand.
So what is fenugreek? - Fenugreek is a traditional Ayurvedic herb. They are available whole and dried, or as a dull yellow powder, ground from the roasted seeds.When grounded, they give off a spicy pungent smell, like an inferior curry powder. So what are it's uses? Fenugreek seeds are used to add flavor to curry and made into lip balm. The seeds could also be brewed as tea to help reduce fever and menstrual pains, or they could be used in an ointment to treat skin infections. Some sites even mentioned that consumption could serve as an aphrodisiac to increase libido in men. Fenugreek's leaves, which are high in iron, are used in salads. Taken internally, fenugreek is used to treat bronchitis, coughs, respiratory problems, sinus conditions and of course to increase milk supply.
Mothers generally notice an increase in production 24-72 hours after starting the herb. Once milk production is stimulated to an appropriate level you could disconti ue the herb.
Fenugreek is considered safe for nursing moms when used in moderation and is on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's GRAS list (Generally Recognized As Safe). As with most medications and herbs, various side effects have been noted. You could visit this site for more info.http://www.kellymom.com/herbal/milksupply/fenugreek.html
Well done, am glad it worked for u! Continue w bf, it is a v rewarding journey and only a mom can provide to a baby, not replaceable :) Let's meet soon!
ReplyDeleteThe bottle of fenugreek you bought is in tablet form??
ReplyDeleteIf so, perhaps I should get some too...now facing abit of a struggle with a 7 months old's appetite.