Need help, had to take antibiotic, so stopped nursing, my milk has decreased to nothing?

Question

I stopped pumping for a week because had to take antibiotic, my milk supply has decreased to almost nothing. Should i go see a lactation consultant?
Is there any medicine which is safe to take to increase milk supply?

Answer 1

Its natural for your body to stop producing milk when you're not nursing, thats what it does.

If you havent dried up completely you can pump often throughout the day, and drink lots of water. Depending on your genetics and how well your body produces milk you might be able to get production back up again, but you cant do it without presenting the demand by nursing and pumping often.

I dont know about medication to increase supply. You can ask your OB.

Answer 2

I would definitely see a consultant.
It's a shame that you stopped nursing because of an antibiotic. There are VERY few meds that you can't nurse while taking. If you read the package insert, or look it up in the PDR, almost any medication should not be taken while pregnant or breast feeding.
A lactation consultant can help you get your milk supply re-established. Probably by pumping every 2 - 3 hours for 15 minutes. They can also give you better information about drug compatability and breast feeding. Dr. Hale is the guru of such things, and they should have his book front and center on their desks.
And, there is a nasal spray that helps with let down, and I think helps increase production as well. I would probably get the info before you contact your OB for the prescription.
Good luck. And, on the chance that it doesn't work out, just remember, ANY breastmilk that you baby has gotten has been a gift no one else could give.

Answer 3

Many antibiotics are safe to take while nursing, so unfortunately the temporary weaning probably wasn't necessary. Is there a reason you didn't pump and dump during that time to keep your supply up?

You can most likely rebuild your supply, but it will take dedication, time and patience.

You need to start nursing or pumping frequently. Every 2 hours would be good. Spend the weekend doing nothing but self-care and nursing/pumping. Let someone else take care of the house and cooking, etc. It's all about supply and demand, so the more you nurse/pump, the more milk you will make.

Make sure you are drinking plenty of fluids. Some moms report that eating oatmeal causes a boost in supply for them, so eat oatmeal for breakfast every day.

There is an herbal supplement called fenugreek that is very effective at boosting supply. The typical dosage is 3-4 capsules three times per day. Be sure to read the link below for safety information about fenugreek.

Note that nothing else will help to boost your supply if you aren't removing the milk from your breasts by pumping/nursing often enough! Empty breasts make milk faster than full breasts!

There are also some prescription drugs that can be used to help boost supply, but I'd try everything else first.

You can also contact your local Lactation Consultant and/or La Leche League Leader for one on one help in your area. A LLL Leader will help you for free.

Answer 4

Actually there are meds they can give you to help increase your milk supply. Why did you stop pumping. There are antibiotics that are safe to take while nursing. Next time ask about them. Good luck

Answer 5

You should have pumped when on meds. You could have tossed the milk.
If you still have some milk it should come back. I was told the more often you pump the more milk you'll make. Also I would say to be sure & drink lots of water.
If this don't help call ask-a-nurse they always help me with things when I'm not sure & can't go to the doctor.

Answer 6

Why did you stop pumping? You should start again as soon as possible. Contact a lactation consultant and they should be able to help you. Good luck.

Answer 7

Yes-go to a health store and buy Fenugreek and Mother's Milk Tea and use both of those for a few days.You will definantly see a huge increase in your milk-and they are perfectly safe for baby.I used both when nursing my son.

Answer 8

If you try all the meds and consult a specialist and nothing is working for you, you can buy breastmilk. The women who provide it are tested a acreened very carefully. Ask your baby's doctor who supplies this service.

Answer 9

You can try stimulating your breasts often (if you are able to) Drink more fluids and also when you pump do it more frequently but for a shorter time so you don't get sore.

Answer 10

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