Medical Questions » Babies Questions » Question No. 109
| Question: | I do not have enough breast milk and my baby is not gaining weight. I have been told that it is bad to stop breast feeding, but I feel that I should. Others have suggested supplementary feeds. What does that mean and how do I give supplementary feeds? |
| Answer: | There is no need for you to stop breast feeding. The production of breast milk can be encouraged by the more frequent feeding of the baby and ensuring that the breasts are completely emptied after each feed. If essential, there are also medications available that can help build up breast milk production.
If your child is not gaining sufficient weight despite these measures, supplementary feeding is essential. This can take the form of formula milk, cow' s milk or solids, depending on the child' s age. Your doctor or clinic sister can guide you here. At each feed, the breasts should be given first, and emptied as much as possible. After this, the supplementation can be given, and then the breasts again, if desired, to ensure that they are empty and give comfort to both mother and child. Weighing should be done weekly until an adequate rate of weight gain is achieved. |
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