Do I need to take birth control as part of the induction process?
Most definately NO!!! You do not need to take birth control at all in the induction process. You will hear other supposed professionals tout needing to use birth control pills to simulate pregnancy and birth, but this is NOT needed as shown in studies that were done and also the many clients that I have helped over the years, and studies I have done. Not using it will make you lactate regardless, so there is no need to subject your body to birth control. In fact, it can hinder lactation.
What is the correct dom dosage for lactation?
The correct dom dosage for lactation is 10-20 mg three to four times a day for a total of 30-80 mg daily preferably an hour and a half after meals. Studies have recently shown that dom is absorbed by the body 23% more if taken 1 1/2 hours after meals. However, recent recommendations have stated up to 90-160 mg daily (30 mg 3x/day to 40 mg 4x/day). The range is given as everyone is different as far as how their system reacts to dom- some may need more than others to benefit. Dom can also be taken at any time during the induction process, along with a regular schedule of stimulation.
Are there any side effects or contraindications to taking domperidone (motilium)?
Side effects are very rare and include headache and dry mouth. Some people also complain of GI upset, but that most likely happens if you don't take it 1 1/2 hours after eating. Because there is a range of the dom dosage, if you experience headaches you can adjust the dosage accordingly. If you are taking any other medications, please see your doctor or pharmacist first to see if there are any potential medication interactions.
How long should I stay on domperidone?
The norm is about 6 months, then you slowly wean off of it and continue your schedule of stimulation, and if you take herbs, continue taking them.
Are there any other medications that can be used for induction?
Reglan(Metoclopramide) has been used over the years but is currently not recommended as one of the side effects is severe depression. On a personal note I have taken it a couple times myself but never again even though it brought in drops in 24 hours. The side effects I experienced were just way too much to handle, including extreme restlessness, and upset GI system.
How much stimulation is the right amount?
The optimum schedule for stimulation is every 3-4 hours, for a maximum of 30 minutes. Recent studies have shown that more than 30 minutes for each session can shut off the signal in the brain to produce more milk. Stimulation can be in the form of massage, suckling, or using a hospital grade pump.
What is the right kind of breast pump to use and can it be used to induce lactation rather than just be used after you get at least drops?
A pump can be used at any time in the induction process, even at the beginning, and also can be used alone for the induction process. Some people will say that you can not induce by a pump alone, but it does work. The best pump is a hospital grade pump, especially one that not only the amount of suction can be regulated, but also the cycles of suction. Some of the best deals for pumps can be found on ebay www.ebay.com
Once I get at least drops, how can I increase the flow?
The body works on a supply and demand basis, so the more you stimulate, the more you produce. There are also certain herbs that will work to increase flow. The most popular is fenugreek, but some shy away from it as it has a side effect of making your body fluids (sweat, urine) smell like maple. Recommended dose is 2-4 500mg capsules three times daily with meals. Blessed Thistle is the second most popular herb, and it can have a laxative effect on your system. The dosage is 3-4 capsules 3 times per day and for the tincture 10-20 drops (2 ml) 2-4 times per day.
How long does it take to induce lactation?
Everyone is different as to how long it takes and there are many variables- what method you use, how often you stimulate, stress, any other medications and herbs, etc etc Using domperidone along with a regular schedule of stimulation is the fastest method.
Can I induce without medication and or herbs?
If you are adamant about inducing without the use of domperidone, you have to be extremely strict with a schedule, but it can work. It can be a very long winded and discouraging process, but it can be done. Induction with just using herbs does not work- herbs are really only good once you have at least drops, not for the induction process itself.
Do I need to change my diet at all while lactating?
Experts recommend eating approximately 500 extra calories above your usual non-breastfeeding intake. The calcium recommendation for nursing women is 1,000 milligrams (mg) per day. It's fine to get more than the recommended dietary allowance as long as your total daily intake is less than 2,500 mg. Try to get your calcium through food instead of a vitamin supplement — your body will absorb it better.
Can I induce lactation just to increase my breast size?
Just like the advertisements you see for herbal mixtures that say you will increase breast size if you use their product, the body does not work that way so there is no guarantee that you will increase size, and if there is any, it will only be a temporary measure just like the herbal mixtures.
If you have any further questions, feel free to email me at snugglebunny1968@yahoo.com of join my yahoo group at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/InducedLactation On a personal note I have induced a few times myself over the years, and over the years have volunteered my time counseling many couples on induced lactation. I have been involved with induced lactation and lactation issues for over 23 years.
AA
RN, CLD,CNMI, CHBI, CE, LC
