Methods to Promote Lactation After Childbirth
May 29, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Chen Zhe
Introduction
Galactagogue therapy typically involves massage, which works by regulating Qi flow, promoting blood circulation, relaxing muscles, and unblocking meridians. Basic techniques—including acupressure, pressing, kneading, and grasping—are commonly used; however, in clinical practice, multiple techniques must be combined for optimal effect.
Galactagogue soups include crucian carp soup, black chicken soup, pork rib soup, and pig trotter soup. These soups are designed to help lactating mothers achieve sufficient breast milk production within 7–10 days to fully meet their infant’s nutritional needs.
Massaging and unblocking the mammary glands can help promote lactation. Insufficient milk supply may result from blocked mammary ducts or consumption of foods known to suppress lactation. So, what methods can be used to enhance milk production postpartum?
Methods to Enhance Postpartum Lactation
Massage-based lactation stimulation is commonly employed, operating on the principles of regulating Qi, invigorating blood circulation, relaxing tendons, and unblocking meridians. Basic techniques—including acupressure, pressing, kneading, and grasping—are frequently utilized; however, optimal results are achieved through the integrated application of multiple techniques. Lactation-enhancing soups—such as crucian carp soup, black chicken soup, pork rib soup, and pig trotter soup—are specially formulated to help mothers achieve adequate milk supply within 7–10 days, sufficient for their infants’ needs. These soups vary in type and are rich in nutrients. Dietary recommendations include increased intake of high-protein foods and fresh fruits and vegetables; gentle, regular breast massage; and frequent infant suckling—all of which support milk production. Additionally, ensure adequate rest, avoid excessive fatigue, maintain a regular daily routine and balanced diet, manage stress effectively, secure sufficient sleep, and preserve emotional well-being.
You may also consult a professional lactation consultant. Infant suckling provides positive feedback for the secretion of both prolactin and oxytocin—i.e., the more frequent and effective the suckling, the greater the hormonal secretion; conversely, reduced suckling leads to diminished secretion. Thus, infant suckling remains the most critical factor for increasing milk production.
Suckling stimulation exerts positive feedback on the secretion of both prolactin and oxytocin—meaning that increased suckling leads to greater hormone secretion, while decreased suckling reduces it. We hope this information proves helpful to you!
