Nursing mothers who have trouble with breastfeeding will probably know all about ‘milk-boosters’ or ‘lactation supplements’. Scientifically known as ‘galactagogues’ (from the Greek word galacta, meaning ‘milk’), breast milk boosters have been used for centuries to help stimulate lactation—especially in mothers who may not be producing adequate breast milk for their babies. Before the invention of synthetic, lab-grade drugs, many cultures relied on traditional concoctions and herbal preparations for this purpose. But in the 21st century we have medication for almost every ailment, even nursing. If you’re deciding whether to go get a prescription for your lactation problems or to go with a more natural route, read on and perhaps we may aid you in your decision.
Natural vs Synthetic
The discussion revolving around natural vs synthetic, organic vs nonorganic and traditional vs modern has been going on for decades. While there is some validity in the ‘natural’ movement, it’s important not to disregard modern medicine, even with its many flaws and shortcomings. There are cases where these two ideas coincide. When it comes to lactation, you would want the best not only for yourself, but also for your baby. Because what you put into your body may also go into your baby, especially when breastfeeding is involved. Here we will talk about natural and synthetic galactagogues (milk-boosters, for the sake of simplicity), and whether you should be going au naturale or otherwise, in your pursuit of better lactation.
Pharmaceutical Galactagogues
While natural milk boosters are more widely known and talked about, synthetic or ‘pharmaceutical’ ones do exist. But most mothers only resort to proper medical intervention when alternative at-home treatments don’t work. Most probably because pharmaceutical options often carry a certain amount of stigma. But if you’re wondering how they work, lactation drugs basically alter your body chemistry in helping your produce more of the hormones responsible for lactation, like prolactin and oxytocin. The most common galactagogues prescribed for human use include metoclopramide, domperidone, chlorpromazine, and sulpiride.
However, strong evidence leans in support of the drug domperidone as the first option for lactation insufficiency in nursing mothers. But even with a prescription, your mileage may vary. More research is needed to understand and validify the efficacy of these drugs. Moreover, they are not without their side effects. Domperidone, for instance, can result in dizziness, fainting, disorientation, irregular heartbeat and light-headedness. So, your reservations about going the pharmaceutical option may be justified in this sense. But of course, depending on your individual biology, you may experience these side effects or you may not.
Natural Galactagogues
On the other end of the spectrum, we have natural milk-boosters which are often herbal or botanical in nature, i.e. plant-based. Some even come in blends or mixtures of several different types of herbs and plants to boost their purported effects—often sold in the form of capsules or tablets. As these herbal supplements are not regulated by the FDA, or in our case, the MOH, the manufacturers can pretty much make any claims they want and use whatever quantity of ingredients. But some mothers also make their own milk-boosters in the form of every day food like smoothies, soups and cookies. These are often the safer option since the doses are less likely to be concentrated.
According to this study, the most common natural galactagogues used are lactation cookies, brewer’s yeast, and fenugreek. However, the efficacy of these ingredients is not well documented—most evidence is anecdotal. Milk thistle and fenugreek, for instance, may cause allergic reactions in certain people. Fenugreek can cause nausea and vomiting when consumed in large doses. Other ‘natural’, over-the-counter herbal supplements include garlic, ginger, blessed thistle, goat’s rue, rice paper pith, palm dates, Shatavari, moringa and malunggay.
Choose the Right Milk Booster
Pharmaceutical drugs will often win when we discuss the topic of efficacy. Drugs like domperidone will definitely increase your breast milk supply by increasing the level of prolactin in your body. But it may also come with a variety of unpleasant side effects. On the other hand, unlike medical milk boosters, herbal ones have fewer side effects. However, they may also be less effective. That said, it’s important to note that even with pharmaceutical galactagogues, your results may vary. This is all the truer with herbal or natural ones. You will need to continue the regimen for at least a week before you see results. Moreover, while many galactagogues are safe for nursing mothers, that may not be the case for pregnant women.
Experts agree that the most effective way to boost milk production naturally is to simply pump longer and pump frequently. Either manually or with a machine. And to directly breastfeed your baby as often as possible. It’s safe to say that there is no magic pill you can pop to instantaneously make you start producing litres of milk. But at least for the natural options, there’s definitely no harm in trying, as long as within moderation. Lactation cookies, for instance, can be made easily at home using oatmeal, flax seeds and brewer’s yeast. But as per usual, always consult a physician when you’re trying out a new alternative remedy. They may have important input that could potentially help you make a better decision for you and your baby.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!