seasonedMaternal health specialists have noted that delayed milk production, which happens when mothers fail to generate a sufficient amount of mature milk within 72 hours following delivery, is prevalent among first-time mothers, as well as those who are overweight, have diabetes, high blood pressure, hormonal imbalances, or thyroid issues, and these individuals are more likely to experience this problem.
They also mentioned that pregnant women who have a cesarean delivery, suffer from excessive blood loss, retain the placenta, face nutritional deficiencies, or are exposed to physical or emotional stress may experience a delay in milk production following birth.
Obstetric gynaecologists noted that 20 to 30 percent of women encounter this issue, and identified improper latching of the infant to the breast as an additional contributing factor.
In conversations with PUNCH Healthwise, specialists in maternal health cautioned that the situation might put newborns at risk of dehydration and low blood sugar levels, potentially resulting in weight loss and causing seizures and jaundice if not adequately addressed.
Gynaecologists advised pregnant women to participate in prenatal classes, notify their physicians about any existing health issues, and receive appropriate care prior to childbirth. They also recommended that women maintain a healthy diet and stay hydrated after giving birth, while ensuring the baby latches correctly onto the breast.
They also promoted the idea that early breastfeeding, correct baby positioning, and immediate skin-to-skin contact following birth could aid in boosting milk supply.
As stated by Johns Hopkins Medicine, colostrum—the initial, thick, and nutrient-dense milk—should begin to flow within the first two to five days after giving birth, with full milk production typically starting around three to five days postpartum.
It also mentioned that milk production is influenced by demand, stating that the most effective method to ensure an adequate supply is to feed the infant regularly and as needed.
In response to the issue, Dr. Olanrewaju Jimoh, a Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at the Federal Medical Centre in Abeokuta, Ogun State, noted that delayed milk production was more frequently observed in first-time mothers, those who underwent caesarean sections, individuals with extended labor, premature births, retained placenta, and women experiencing significant blood loss following delivery.
He stated, “Typically, one would anticipate that abundant milk production begins by the third day following childbirth, or if this does not occur, it is referred to as delayed milk production or delayed onset of lactation.”
The likelihood of experiencing delayed lactation is approximately 20 to 25 per cent for first-time mothers. In contrast, for the broader group of mothers, this risk may range from 10 to 15 per cent. First-time mothers are typically more vulnerable.
Jimoh added that the hormone oxytocin plays a role in milk production, and that insufficient stimulation of this hormone might lead to a postponement in milk generation.
He mentioned that extended labor, postpartum bleeding, retained placenta, dehydration, obesity, smoking, thyroid issues, and uncontrolled diabetes might lead to delayed milk production. He also pointed out that significant blood loss could impact the pituitary gland in the brain, which is responsible for generating the hormones that initiate breast milk production.
“Postpartum bleeding, whether following a caesarean section or a normal delivery, can increase the risk of delayed lactation in mothers. There is a condition known as Sheehan syndrome. Excessive blood loss can damage the pituitary gland in the brain, which in turn affects the production of hormones responsible for breast milk ejection,” said the gynaecologist.
Continuing, the fertility specialist stated, “Lactation or milk release typically begins after the placenta is delivered. Therefore, a delayed or retained placenta can also lead to a later start in milk production.”
The gynaecologist mentioned that dehydration, insufficient diet, and specific drugs might aggravate the situation, along with stress following delivery, particularly among new mothers who frequently experience limited family assistance.
“In our setting, it is the mother who has just given birth who is nursing and also needs to prepare meals for guests, launder clothes, and handle other tasks. The new mother should be given the opportunity to rest, get sufficient sleep, and stay adequately hydrated,” he stated.
He also pointed out that improper breastfeeding methods could play a role, mentioning that if the infant did not properly attach, with both the nipple and areola fitting correctly into the mouth, the sucking would be inefficient and milk release would remain inadequate.
“If this isn’t handled correctly, perhaps by mothers who lack experience, the milk ejection reflex may be very weak, and it could be mistaken for a late start in milk production,” he said.
Speaking about the effects on newborns, Jimoh stated, “Babies will begin to lose weight as breast milk is not available. They can lose up to 10 percent of their birth weight. The sugar level in the baby’s blood will start to drop, resulting in hypoglycemia. If hypoglycemia isn’t addressed, babies may start experiencing convulsions or seizures. They become very sluggish and weak. Their diapers will be extremely dry. Additionally, jaundice can develop, along with various other problems that jaundice can lead to later in life,” he mentioned.
The obstetrician advised mothers to consult a healthcare professional if, by the third day following childbirth, their baby had less than three wet diapers in a 24-hour period, or fewer than six by the fifth day. This recommendation also applied if the baby had lost over 10% of its initial weight, or if the infant exhibited symptoms such as weakness, jaundice, or seizures.
Jimoh also urged physicians to advise women undergoing cesarean sections regarding the possibility of delayed milk production, emphasizing that an informed mother was much less likely to experience anxiety and stress that could further postpone the start of breastfeeding.
“If an individual lacks sufficient knowledge, they may feel anxious and stressed, which can negatively impact milk production. However, if the person receives appropriate guidance beforehand, they become accustomed to the situation and focus on finding solutions instead of worrying, thus avoiding additional stress,” he stated.
Additionally, a Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at the Federal Medical Centre in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Dr Ebiye Tekenah-Egba, mentioned that delayed milk production may impact as many as 30 percent of women who are breastfeeding.
She stated, “More realistically, perhaps 20 to 30 percent of nursing mothers might experience a delay. A delay occurs when they are not producing breast milk for up to 72 hours.”
The gynaecologist mentioned that women suffering from serious infections, hypothyroidism, obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, and postpartum bleeding were also at higher risk.
She also mentioned that women who gave birth before their due date might experience delayed milk production, as weak sucking decreases the breast stimulation required for milk supply.
Tekenah-Egba highlighted that severe postpartum hemorrhage is one of the strongest inhibitors of milk production, pointing out that significant blood loss effectively halts the body’s lactation process.
“Severe postpartum bleeding has a tendency to stop the process of milk production. The woman is unable to produce breast milk,” she stated.
The obstetrician mentioned that infants who consistently cry due to hunger or do not gain weight properly should be assessed promptly by medical experts.
“If she realizes she isn’t producing enough milk, which would be clear since the baby is constantly hungry, she should consult a healthcare professional,” she stated.
Tekenah-Egba cautioned mothers against consuming palm wine and other unconfirmed substances thought to boost breast milk, explaining that palm wine is a type of alcohol that enters breast milk directly and may make an infant overly drowsy, thereby decreasing feeding times and exacerbating the milk supply issue.
“If you’re consuming palm wine to boost your breast milk supply, keep in mind that your baby is also getting the palm wine. Palm wine contains alcohol, which can also be passed through breast milk. Your baby doesn’t require this alcohol. If the baby is sleeping excessively, it might not consume enough,” she cautioned.
Tekenah-Egba stated that delayed milk production was typically treatable with timely assistance and appropriate care, advising mothers who continue to have low milk supply after three to five days to consult a healthcare professional right away.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc.Syndigate.info).
