The easiest way to increase milk supply and encourage weight gain in your baby
One of the challenges new parents face is ensuring their baby is gaining weight appropriately while maintaining or increasing milk supply. It might seem overwhelming, but there’s a simple and natural technique that could make a significant difference. It revolves around feeding without watching the clock and letting go of the notion that your baby needs to feed equally on each breast during every feeding session.
The Clock-Free Feeding Approach
First, let’s debunk a common misconception: your baby does not need to spend an equal amount of time on each breast during feeds. In fact, doing so might actually decrease your milk supply and slow your baby’s weight gain over time. Instead, consider changing your approach to feeding.
Think of the feeding as a two-course meal with “dinner” and “dessert.” Start by offering one breast as the “dinner” venue. Allow your baby as much time on this breast as they need. Once your baby latches on, they’ll trigger your milk let-down and get into a steady sucking rhythm. If they seem to slow down, introduce breast compressions two to three times while they are still latched to encourage further milk flow.
Handling Discomfort and Switching Sides
If your baby squirms a few minutes into feeding and exhibits discomfort, it could be a sign to offer a burp rather than a cue to switch breasts. Once they are comfortable, return them to their “dinner” breast.
When your baby starts to slow down after you’ve used compressions, it might be time to switch sides. Allow them to burp first if needed. The second breast serves as the “dessert,” which might be a shorter feeding session, and sometimes your baby may not even need it at all. That’s perfectly okay.
Regulating Milk Supply and Baby’s Satisfaction
There’s no immediate need to pump the second breast unless you’re facing significant supply issues. Your body naturally regulates to meet your baby’s needs. This technique ensures that your baby gets the richer, higher-fat milk, which is excellent for weight gain, instead of just the foremilk from both breasts.
This adjustment is a beautiful method to encourage milk supply, promote your baby’s weight gain, and maintain a calm feeding atmosphere. Although switching from a timed feeding method might feel odd at first, the benefits for you and your baby can be profound.
Conclusion
If you’re accustomed to timing feeds, transitioning to this intuitive, clock-free method may feel strange. However, embracing this approach can make a world of difference. Observe how settled your baby becomes, how their weight gain benefits, and how your milk supply stabilizes. You might find this simple change a game-changer for both your nursing routine and your baby’s growth. Try it, and enjoy the positive changes it brings to your feeding experience.
If you need more support
I lead a team of Registered Nurses and Nurse Practitioners around the globe, who share my programs and who I personally mentor.
If you are struggling with your baby or child, you can reach out and we can help. We do in person and virtual feeding assessments. We also offer women’s health services and can help you achieve optimal hormonal health. Our services are often covered through insurance.
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Thank you so much for being a part of our community,
Carrie Bruno RN, IBCLC, MSCP
