Things You'll Need:
- Electric breast pump
- Supplemental nursing system
- Breast milk storage bags
- Fenugreek tablets
- Lanolin cream
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Step 1
Several months before the baby is born, begin by meeting with a lactation consultant. Establishing a relationship with a lactation consultant is helpful. She can help you learn how to use your breast pump, your supplemental nursing system and how to safely store any milk you produce.
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Step 2
Begin using your breast pump as early as possible, even if you are pumping three months prior to the baby's arrival. Begin by pumping once per day for at least five minutes. Slowly increase the frequency and length of your pumping sessions. Your goal should be pumping eight to 10 times per day for 10 minutes by the time the baby arrives.
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Step 3
Don't expect to start producing milk quickly. It may takes weeks or your body may not begin producing milk until the baby can nurse. Even the most advanced pumping system cannot completely replicate a newborn's breastfeeding motion. If you do produce milk, save it according to the guidelines suggested by your lactation consultant. If your nipples become sore, apply Lanolin to them after each pumping session.
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Step 4
Eight weeks before the baby is born, begin taking fenugreek tablets. This natural dietary supplement has been shown to enhance milk production. Take the tablets as directed on the label of the bottle.
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Step 5
If possible, don't allow the baby to receive bottles after birth. An artificial nipple can confuse the baby and reduce your chances of breastfeeding success. If supplemental nutrition is needed before your can breastfeed, ask that the baby be given formula or breast milk through a dropper or with a cup.
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Step 6
As soon as possible, begin breastfeeding the baby every two hours. Let the baby remain at the breast as long as he likes. Don't force breastfeeding. Seek a natural, comfortable latch. Use your supplemental nursing system to provide the baby with formula, donated breast milk or milk that you have previously expressed. Try to avoid the use of artificial nipples or other types of feeding. This can decrease your chances of successful breastfeeding.
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Step 7
Make sure you have an expert, such as a lactation consultant, available to provide guidance and advice during your first nursing session. Breastfeeding should not hurt. If it is painful, you may have a problem with the baby's latch.
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Step 8
Continue breastfeeding the newborn as often as possible. Some babies will spend a great deal of time at the breast, while others will nurse quickly. Let the newborn find her own way.
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Step 9
Follow up with the newborn's pediatrician or with the lactation consultant. Adequate weight gain is essential during the first few weeks. A local hospital may have a program that allows nursing mothers to bring in newborns for weight checks. Remember, newborn babies can lose weight after birth. Pediatricians expect them to be back up to their birth weight two weeks after delivery.
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Step 10
It is important to realize that many women trying to induce lactation do not produce all the milk their babies need. Any breast milk is better than no breast milk. Keep this in mind as you continue nursing and enjoy the bonding time that nursing gives you with your baby.
