Are you a new mom struggling with a low breast milk supply? You're not alone. Many postpartum women face challenges with maintaining an adequate milk supply to meet their baby's needs. In this blog post, we'll explore what galactagogues are, how they work, and their potential role in supporting breastfeeding success.

What are Galactagogues?

Galactagogues are substances that are believed to help increase breastmilk production in lactating women. They can be herbs, medications, or foods that have been traditionally used or studied for their milk-boosting properties. Some common examples of galactagogues include fenugreek, blessed thistle, goat's rue, and domperidone.

How Do Galactagogues Work?

While the exact mechanisms of action may vary depending on the specific galactagogue, many of them are thought to work by increasing prolactin levels in the body. Prolactin is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that plays a crucial role in initiating and maintaining milk production.

Additionally, some galactagogues may help by increasing breast tissue growth, promoting better milk flow, or enhancing the body's response to the sucking stimulus from the baby.

It's important to note that while galactagogues may be helpful for some women, their effectiveness can vary from person to person and some moms experience a drop in milk production when using them, which is why jumping to a galactogogue is never something I recommend right away. Additionally, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a lactation consultant or healthcare provider, before using any galactagogues, as they may interact with certain medications or have potential side effects.

Before introducing a galactagogue, a mom must first determine if there are any root cause issues to why milk supply is happening in the first place & create a strategy around that. For instance, if milk supply is dipping because the baby has a poor latch and isn't transferring milk well, addressing the latch is crucial & adding a galactagogue likely won't fix the situation. The mom would need to fix the baby's latch in this situation. 

The Role of Galactagogues in Breastfeeding

Some women have reported an increase in their milk supply after incorporating galactagogues into their breastfeeding routine. This can be especially helpful for those who have struggled with insufficient milk production due to various reasons, such as hormonal imbalances, stress, or medical conditions. However, some moms have the opposite effect and see a decrease in production when adding in galactagogues. 

Incorporating Galactagogues Safely

If you decide to try galactagogues, it's essential to follow these guidelines:

1. Consult with a Healthcare Professional - Before using any galactagogues, discuss your options with a healthcare professional or lactation consultant. They can provide guidance on the appropriate dosage, potential interactions, and any risks or precautions specific to your situation.
   
   
2. Start with Real Whole Foods- Adding in real whole foods to the diet first, before a prescription or herbal galactagogue is always my recommendation, because increasing real food into a mother's diet will not cause any adverse side effects, whereas a prescription or herbal supplement could. Dieting or under-eating can also cause a dip in milk supply. Inside of Breastfeeding Blueprint is a list of foods to increase if you're trying to increase milk production & inside of The Postpartum Shift, you'll learn how to calculate your unique calorie and nutrient needs while breastfeeding.
   
   
3. Monitor Your Milk Supply and Baby's Response - Keep track of your milk supply and your baby's feeding patterns after incorporating galactagogues. If you notice any adverse effects or concerns, discontinue use and consult with your healthcare provider.
   
   
4. Stay Hydrated and Well-Nourished - Adequate hydration and nutrition are crucial for successful breastfeeding. Ensure you're drinking enough fluids and consuming a balanced diet to support your body's milk production. 

Breastfeeding is a beautiful journey, but it can also come with challenges, such as a low milk supply. Galactagogues may offer a potential solution for postpartum moms struggling in this area. However, it's essential to approach their use with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional. By incorporating galactagogues safely and responsibly, postpartum moms may be able to boost their milk production and achieve their breastfeeding goals while supporting their baby's health and development.

If you want to overcome common breastfeeding issues & nourish your body best for breastfeeding, Breastfeeding Blueprint is for you. You can get this entire program free as a BONUS when you join us inside of  The Postpartum Shift.