Understanding Breastfeeding and Relactation: A Guide for Parents

We (parents) are all told at some point that breastfeeding is the natural and beneficial way to nourish your baby, providing essential nutrients and fostering a strong bond between mother and child. However, what happens when circumstances lead to the cessation of breastfeeding? Many parents ask the question "Can I still return to breastfeeding after stopping?"

If this is a question that you have asked or have considered then this blog is for you! It aims to provide you with evidence-based guidance on how to successfully re-establish breastfeeding.

Understanding Relactation

Relactation refers to the process of re-establishing breastfeeding after a period of not nursing or pumping. This can be a challenging yet rewarding journey and there are some important points that you may want to consider:

Timing: The sooner you begin the relactation process after stopping breastfeeding, the better your chances of success. So if you are thinking about it- act on this and get help fast!
Commitment: Relactation requires patience and dedication. It may take time for your body to respond and produce milk again. It is normal to feel deflated at times but with the right support and perseverance, you will get there!
Support System: Having a supportive partner, family, and healthcare professionals can make a significant difference in your relactation journey. It is essential that you seek support from a lactation consultant (IBCLC) who has the experience and skills to guide you through the process.

Steps to Successful Relactation

So you are probably wondering where do I begin?....here is a list of quick start tips:

1. Stimulate Milk Production

Frequent Breastfeeding or Pumping: Aim to breastfeed or pump every 2-3 hours, mimicking a newborn's feeding schedule. This helps to stimulate milk production. Pay attention to the evenings and overnight when your prolactin levels will be highest. Prolactin is your "milk making" hormone.
Skin-to-Skin Contact: Spend time holding your baby skin-to-skin. This can trigger the release of hormones that promote milk production. If your baby is older and they don't seem settled being just in a nappy- you can still have skin to skin while they are in a vest. Comfort for both is key.

2. Use Galactagogues

Certain foods and herbs are believed to help increase milk supply. While scientific evidence is limited, some options include:

Oats
Fenugreek
Fennel
Brewer's yeast

Always consult with a herbalist and healthcare professional before introducing any supplements. Remember that herbs can interact with medications and that sometimes supplements can have a negative effect that we weren't expecting or aware of!

What about medications?

Your GP can talk you through any medications available to you to help with relactation. It is important that you consult with an IBCLC first to implement a feeding plan as this will support multi-disciplinary decision making.

3. Establish a Feeding Routine

Normally, I don't talk about routines..because well, what baby follows a routine?! However, in this circumstance, creating a consistent feeding schedule that allows your baby to nurse frequently and have access to the breast 2-3 hourly is vital. This will help with milk production and give you plenty of time to practice and re-learn together. Consider having a baby moon (no...im not referring to going on holiday- although if you can afford, then why not!...but spending prolonged periods of time relaxing and cuddling together with someone bringing you food and drinks.

4. Consider Supplementing

If your milk supply is low initially, consider supplementing with formula or donor milk while you work on increasing your supply. This can help ensure your baby is getting enough nutrition during the relactation process. Continuing with supplementation while you relactate is important but can sometimes impede the process depending on your individual circumstance..this is where an IBCLC comes into play, taking me onto my next point..

5. Seek Professional Support

Engaging with a lactation consultant can provide personalised support and strategies tailored to your specific situation. They can help troubleshoot challenges and offer encouragement throughout your journey.

Resources for Parents in the UK

For those living in the UK, there are numerous resources available:

National Health Service (NHS): The NHS offers a wealth of information on breastfeeding and relactation. Speak to your Health Visitor/ Midwife/ GP
Breastfeeding Network and National Breastfeeding Helpline: Offer free support over the phone, online and in person settings via support groups (search locally)
La Leche League: This organization provides support and resources for breastfeeding mothers.
UNICEF UK: Maximising breastmilk and relactation guide available online for free
Local Breastfeeding Support Groups: Many communities have local support groups where parents can share experiences and receive guidance.

Conclusion

Relactation is a journey that requires time, patience, and support and if you are able to understand the process, persevere and utilise evidence-based strategies, then you can work towards successfully re-establishing breastfeeding. Remember, every mother's journey is unique, and seeking help from healthcare professionals can make all the difference. Embrace this journey with an open heart, and know that you are not alone. If you would like to book for further support then get in touch and book a feeding support consultation with me

Shami