The best nourishment for a baby is its mother’s breast milk. Breast milk is so nutritious that many of the nutrients have not even been identified. Babies should be breast fed for at least six months, but preferably for one year according to the American Academy of pediatrics. However, if you cannot breastfeed for that long, any amount a baby gets provides some benefit. Furthermore, breastfeeding is also a time for a mother and a baby to bond. The nurturing aspect of breastfeeding alone is worth the effort.

Unfortunately, for some mother’s breastfeeding can be very frustrating, mainly because they do not supply enough milk for their baby. Breastfeeding at times can be very taxing and tiring on the mother. This only compounds the problem, because stress and fatigue contribute to a lowered milk supply. A new mother could take a month before she feels comfortable breastfeeding her baby.

The mother’s body produces several hormones needed for lactation, or the manufacturing of milk. High levels of estrogen and progesterone during pregnancy prevents milk from being made. After the baby is born a hormone by the name of prolactin increases while estrogen and progesterone decreases. Prolactin is responsible for motivating milk production in the breast.

However, prolactin does not operate alone. Another hormone by the name of oxytocin, which is released in response to the suckling of the baby, plays two important roles. Number one, it helps to maintain the levels of prolactin needed for proper and adequate milk production. Number two, it helps to stimulate the release of milk from the breast – also called ejection.

For centuries, women have turned to natural remedies and herbal remedies to battle breastfeeding problems. Many of the herbal remedies I will mention in this article should not be taken during pregnancy, due the fact that they can cause uterine contractions. When your baby is born, these herbs can help increase the supply of breast milk, but also eliminate it after the baby is through breastfeeding. Women who experience nipple soreness or other minor complaints can also benefit from herbal remedies.

Fortunately, many hospitals now have lactation consultants on staff. These consultants are actual nurses trained in breastfeeding and starting new mothers off on the right foot. Nursing mothers can also look to licensed nurses or midwives for help. In addition, a long established organization by the name La Leche League can also assist new mothers with breastfeeding problems.

Breastfeeding Problems – Tips And Remedies

Fenugreek – Theses are seeds that have been used for centuries as a treatment to increase milk production. They have oxytocin-like effects on the body, stimulating milk production and contracting the uterus.

Fennel – This is another age-old remedy for increasing milk flow. Fennel works with the body’s hormones. Fennel seeds can be eaten with food or taken as a tea. In addition, fennel also helps with any mild post-pregnancy digestive problems.

Aniseed – These seeds contain a volatile oil component known as anethole, which can promote prolactin secretion and thus milk production. Aniseed promotes good digestion also.

Aloe – Aloe is not used to promote milk production, but applying aloe gel to the nipple after breastfeeding prevents sore, dry, and cracked nipples.

Tips For Breastfeeding Successfully

- After birth, begin breastfeeding immediately

- Let your baby suckle when it wants to, usually a dozen or more times every twenty-four hours.

- Setting up a nursing station is highly recommended. A good chair, a footstool, a pillow, and a nearby supply of water would be best.

- Unless your baby’s pediatrician recommends it, do not give your baby juice, water, or formula.

- Do not give your baby pacifiers; they confuse your baby’s suckling response.

- Your nipples should be air-dried after breastfeeding to prevent cracking and infection.

- Eating right and getting enough rest is also very important when breastfeeding.

- If you wear breast pads in your nursing bra change them after each feeding to avoid infection.