Breastfeeding can be a battle for new mums, especially when faced with problems such as low milk supply, sore nipples and tongue tie.
It may feel like an uphill struggle trying to satisfy a hungry baby, and many mothers feel guilty for turning to bottle-feeding when breastfeeding doesn't quite go to plan.
But if hormones are making you feel like you want to restart breastfeeding again, re-lactation could be the answer. It's helped thousands of mothers replenish their breast milk supply once again, even if it's been months since the baby was last on the breast.
Reality star and model Amy Willerton recently shared her own breastfeeding journey, and told her Instagram followers that she was trying re-lactation with her five-month-old daughter Demelza, after weeks of bottle-feeding.
Experts suggest that re-lactation works best with babies who are under six months old and were recently weaned onto solid food, although it may be possible to re-lactate if your child is under one.
Here are some tips from the experts at breastfeeding support organisation La Leche League:
- Start munching on some milk-boosting foods, such as oats, fennel, wholegrains, garlic, and papaya, and try to hand express or pump at least eight to 12 times a day for 20-30 minutes
- Try to put your baby to your breast before and after each feed, and give your baby the expressed milk in a cup.
- If your baby becomes fussy, avoid using a pacifier or a comforter, such as a teddy or a blanket, and put them to your breast instead, as that will help build your milk supply.
However, re-lactation can be a major commitment and could require mums to breastfeed up to six hours a day for more than two weeks, so make sure you're 100 percent certain that it's the right choice for you and your baby.
Willerton candidly shared the struggles she's faced during her re-lactation journey, and confessed she's battling with low supply and a baby who refuses to latch.
"All I can say is if you feel the same as me, research, stay positive and know that it's possible - it's going to take hard work and determination and hey I might not succeed but I'm (going to) have a damn good try," the 27-year-old stated.
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