How does stress influence breast milk production?

Question

Hi doctor,

My baby girl is around 15 days old. I have had a normal delivery. At first, when she was three days old till the eighth day, I had engorged breasts with full milk but later there was a sudden drop in the supply. What might be the reason? Will the hot summer influence breast milk production? Also, I have taken a lot of stress due to the death of one of my relatives. So now what should I do to increase my milk production can I use Lactare capsules and Lactolina powder together? If so how long should I use and what is the dose? I have been using fenugreek since three days. Are there any other natural techniques to increase breast milk production without the use of these capsules? I do not have any complications throughout my pregnancy. Everything was normal then why did this happen to me? I am worried. Please help me because I want to breastfeed my baby exclusively for at least six months if possible until 1 year.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand the problem which you are going through. During the breastfeeding period if there are any stressors (like excessive worry regarding the baby, or sudden demise in the family) it decreases the prolactin reflex in the body and hence reduces the milk output. There are a few tips that may be helpful.

1) Be relaxed, calm, and positive.

2) Try to generate lots of positive feelings towards the baby.

3) Keep continuing with a good diet and adequate sleep.

4) If the baby is on formula feed now, try to attach the baby to the breasts every time before giving formula.

5) Try to find out local causes like inverted or sore nipples if any.

These are a few ways that you may try to increase milk output naturally. You can try taking Shatavari powder in milk twice daily and the capsules you are already taking. These things may be sufficient to increase the milk output because most of the time it is the psychological impact that affects the milk output.

I hope this helps.