Can I do anything to promote lactation?
The best way to promote lactation after giving birth is to put your baby to your breast as soon as possible after giving birth to start feeding right away. After birth your body will respond to this by producing more collustrum, and after a few days, milk. Talk to lactation consultants at the hospital (especially if you have another c-section) and let them know that you had trouble last time, and that you need all the help you can get. Milk supply will build up as the demand for milk is there. It is best to exclusively breastfeed your baby for atleast a month (no bottles) until you and your body become well adjusted to breastfeeding. If you must leave the baby for someone else to feed, in that case breastfeed exclusively when you are with your baby, and get a good quality breast pump to use while you are away. Pump regularly (every 2 hours is best) until your milk supply is built up well. If you have ANY trouble, immeditately contact La Leche League in your area and talk to a lactation
