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A Simple Guide On How to induce lactation.
If you’re aiming to induce lactation and experience that full, satisfying ache that comes with a good milk supply, you may be wondering where to begin. There are several methods that can make the process easier, based on my own experience with my anr partners. Whether you choose hand expression, pumping, or suckling, understanding the different approaches will help you succeed.
The Basics of Inducing Lactation
Inducing lactation takes time, patience, and consistency. It’s a gradual process that often requires a combination of techniques to effectively stimulate milk production. Let’s delve into the different methods at our disposal.
Methods of Inducing: Hand Expression, Pumping, and Suckling
When inducing lactation, you can use hand expression, a breast pump, or suckling to stimulate your breasts and signal your body to produce milk. Each method has its own benefits:
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Hand Expression: This is a manual technique where you use your hands to replicate the sensation of a baby suckling. The Marmet Technique, which I’ll explain further, is a prime example of this.
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Pumping: Many find success using breast pumps, which mimic the rhythm and intensity of a baby’s feeding. This helps signal your body to produce milk. Power Pumping is a particularly effective technique for stimulating milk production.
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Suckling: If you’re working with a partner, regular suckling can also help encourage milk production. The natural stimulation from a partner can mimic a baby’s nursing and create the necessary hormonal response for lactation.
2. Medications and Supplements to Boost Milk Supply
If you’re open to it, there are natural remedies and medications that can help increase your milk supply. One medication, in particular, is worth mentioning—Domperidone. Often referred to as “Dom,” this prescription medication boosts prolactin levels, the hormone responsible for milk production. While Domperidone doesn’t guarantee milk production, it mimics the hormone levels seen during pregnancy, encouraging your body to lactate. Keep in mind that Domperidone works best when combined with stimulation methods, like pumping or hand expression.
3. The Marmet Technique and Power Pumping
Now, let’s discuss two popular methods for inducing lactation: the Marmet Technique and Power Pumping.
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The Marmet Technique is a manual method that involves using your hands to massage and express milk from your breasts. This is especially helpful if you’re without a pump or need to relieve the tingling or aching sensations in your breasts.
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Power Pumping involves using a breast pump to mimic a baby’s frequent feeding sessions. It tricks your body into thinking there’s a high demand for milk, eventually prompting production. A typical power pumping session looks like this:
- Pump for 20 minutes, then rest for 10 minutes.
- Pump for 10 minutes, then rest for 10 minutes.
- Pump for 10 minutes to complete the session.
Consistency is key when it comes to inducing lactation, so try to fit these sessions into your routine regularly.
4. Breast Pump Settings
When using a breast pump, many people mistakenly believe that they need to crank up the suction until it hurts. This is not necessary. Most pumps have multiple settings designed to mimic different stages of a feeding session:
- The first setting simulates letdown, encouraging milk to start flowing.
- The second setting, with slower and stronger suction, helps maintain milk flow when it starts to slow down.
- The third setting (if available) helps extract the last bits of milk, which can sometimes be more stubborn.
Remember, the goal is to stimulate, not to cause discomfort.
5. The Role of the Tens Unit
Some people also experiment with using a TENS unit (a device that sends electrical impulses through the skin) to stimulate their breasts. While it doesn’t extract milk, some believe that the stimulation it provides can help increase supply by encouraging blood flow and signaling the need for milk production.
6. Proper Latching
Latching correctly is crucial when inducing lactation, especially if you’re working with a partner. Proper latching means creating an airtight seal around the areola, where the suckler draws the nipple into their mouth and uses their tongue to express milk from the nipple. Avoid using teeth, as this can be painful and may discourage the breastfeeding process.
I’ve written a separate post on how to practice proper latching, so I won’t go into too much detail here, but mastering this is an important step in your journey.
7. Supplements for Inducing Lactation
Many people find that certain herbal supplements can support their lactation journey. Here are some common options:
- Goat’s Rue
- Fenugreek
- Lecithin
- Shatavari
- Blessed Thistle
- Moringa
- Fennel
- Milk Thistle
These supplements are known for their lactation-boosting properties, but it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before adding any new supplements to your routine.
Inducing lactation can be a rewarding and fulfilling process, but it requires time, dedication, and the patience. Whether you choose hand expression, pumping, suckling, or a combination of all three, you can encourage milk production with the right approach. Medications like Domperidone, techniques like the Marmet and Power Pumping methods, and supplements can all play a supportive role in achieving your goals.
With patience and consistency, you can successfully induce lactation and enjoy the deep connection that comes with the process.
For more information on supplements for inducing lactation.
Medications / Supplement
Dom or Domperidone is typically used.
Someone I spoke with also used these but I had never heard of them before so I thought I might include them as well.
Legendary milk – Liquid Gold, Pump Princess, Cash Cow, Milkapalooza and lactavistWhat you should know about dom before taking it
Where can you buy Domperidone without a prescription? I have not personally purchased them, this is coming from people who have in the past.
aipctshop.com
inhousepharmacy.vuOther links that might be useful:
How to get started with re-lactation
2 months into inducing and what I’ve experienced and learned-
This discussion was modified 1 month, 1 week ago by
Matt (ADMIN). Reason: Updating
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This discussion was modified 1 month, 1 week ago by Matt (ADMIN). Reason: Updating
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2 Replies
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Super helpful! Thank you
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Thanks. I am so glad it helped. If you have anything to add from your own experience I would.love to chat and add to the post.
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