Does fenugreek really increase breast milk?

Answer 1

Yes. It works for *most* women who use it correctly. There are 2 main points to using it:

1. Take the correct dose.
2. Nurse at least 10-12 times a day.

The correct dose is very individual. For most women, it is 2-4 capsules, 3 times a day. You will know you are taking enough if your urine and sweat smell like maple syrup.

The frequent nursing is also *very* important. You *cannot* take fenugreek and expect to have more milk while nursing once or twice a day (or even 4 times a day).

Fenugreek *may* not be effective if you are exclusively pumping, although it *does* help many mothers who pump. Since pumping is always less effective than nursing, I would suggest pumping at least 12 times a day to have the best chance of increasing your supply. But if you are pumping and not getting enough milk, low production is rarely the problem--usually it is that the pumping itself is not working for you.

If you have any question about breastfeeding (or even about pumping), contact your local La Leche League Leader (see sources section below). Her help is free (although she would undoubtedly appreciate a donation to the organization).

Answer 2

The absolute best way to increase supply is to nurse more frequently.

Herbs such as fenugreek can be helpful too, if you take enough. The site http://www.kellymom.com has great info for you. You'll want to take 3-4 capsules 3 times per day and see if that helps.

Answer 3

Yes it does.