Cara Induksi Laktasi Medis & Alami untuk Mendukung Produksi ASI Ibu

Lactation induction is the process of stimulating breast milk production in a mother who did not give birth, or a mother who has breastfed before and wishes to start again. Lactation induction is generally performed using various methods, both natural and with medical assistance, to stimulate the breasts to produce breast milk.

Some common reasons why a mother might want to perform lactation induction include baby adoption, surrogacy, and relactation. So, mothers who have never been pregnant, adoptive mothers, or mothers who want to start breastfeeding again after stopping can perform lactation induction.

Lactation induction requires a major commitment because the process can take weeks or months. Challenges that may arise include initial difficulty in producing breast milk, uncertainty of results, as well as the need for strong emotional and mental support.

However, with consistency and support, many mothers succeed in breastfeeding through lactation induction. It is important to consult with a doctor or lactation consultant to determine the most suitable method for each individual's condition. See the complete information in the following article!

Preparation Before Starting Lactation Induction

Before reviewing in detail how to perform lactation induction, there are several preparations that you must do. What are they? Here are the details.

1. Consultation with a Lactation Specialist or Doctor

Before starting the lactation induction process, it is important to consult with a lactation consultant or doctor experienced in this process. They can provide the right guidance, monitor progress, and help mothers choose the most suitable method.

2. Understanding the Time and Effort Commitment Required

The lactation induction process requires high dedication, as it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months to begin producing breast milk. Mothers need to realize that breast stimulation must be done consistently every day, with or without a baby to nurse.

3. Support from Partner and Family

Support from a partner and family is very important during this process. Lactation induction can be an emotionally and physically draining process, so support in the form of practical help and emotional encouragement can make this process easier to get through.

4. Mental and Emotional Preparation

Mothers must be mentally prepared to face the possibility that this process does not always work for everyone or may take longer than expected. Managing expectations and being prepared for emotional challenges is crucial.

Read also: The Miraculous Benefits of Exclusive Breastfeeding for Babies and Mothers

How to Perform Lactation Induction

Lactation induction methods can be natural/non-medical or require medical review. The choice taken for each mother may differ, based on preferences and advice from a doctor or lactation counselor. Here is an explanation of both medical and non-medical lactation induction methods.

1. Non-Medical Methods

• Regular Breast Stimulation
  Manual breast stimulation or with the help of a baby is the main way to stimulate milk production. This can be done with breast massage or by trying to encourage the baby to nurse.
• Use of a Breast Pump
  Using a breast pump regularly (every 2-3 hours) helps mimic the baby's nursing rhythm, which can ultimately increase milk production.
• Use of Nursing Aid (SNS or Supplemental)
  This tool helps the baby nurse at the breast while receiving formula or donor milk through a small tube attached to the breast, which stimulates milk production while ensuring the baby still gets enough nutrition.
• Herbs and Supporting Supplements (With Expert Consultation)
  Some herbs and supplements, such as fenugreek, katuk leaves, or blessed thistle, are known to help increase milk production. However, consultation with an expert is highly recommended before using them to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the product.

2. Medical Methods

• Hormone Therapy (Under Doctor's Supervision)
  Hormone therapy, such as the administration of estrogen and progesterone, can be used to mimic the hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy, which prepares the body for milk production. This must be done under a doctor's supervision as it involves the use of hormonal medication.
• Use of Galactagogue Medications (With Doctor's Prescription)
  Some medications, such as domperidone or metoclopramide, may be prescribed by a doctor to increase milk production. These drugs work by stimulating the production of prolactin, the hormone responsible for milk production.

Read also: These Are 3 Signs You Should Consult a Lactation Specialist

Tips During the Lactation Induction Process

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Lactation induction is not an easy process and requires a major commitment for mothers undergoing it. Therefore, there are many efforts that you must make so that the potential for success is greater. Here are some tips that should be applied during the lactation induction process.

1. Maintain a Healthy and Nutritious Diet

Good nutrition is essential to support milk production. Eating foods rich in protein, green vegetables, and drinking enough water is highly recommended.

2. Get Enough Rest

Lack of sleep can affect milk production and a mother's overall health. Try to get enough rest, even if it is difficult amid a busy schedule.

3. Manage Stress

Stress can inhibit milk production. Therefore, it is important to engage in activities that can help reduce stress, such as meditation or taking walks.

4. Be Patient and Consistent

The key to success in lactation induction is consistency. Keep stimulating the breasts regularly and be patient with the process.

5. Join a Lactation Induction Support Group

Joining a community of mothers who are also performing lactation induction can provide moral support and practical information.

Read also: Function of Lactation Rooms in Public Places, Pay Attention to These 4 Tips!

Challenges That May Arise

Various obstacles and challenges are certainly part of the lactation induction process. However, do not give up easily and learn how to handle them. The various challenges that may arise are generally as follows.

1. Slow or Low Milk Production

Milk production may not be immediately visible, and sometimes only a little comes out in the first few weeks. This can be a challenge that makes mothers feel frustrated.

2. Cracked or Sore Nipples

Excessive use of a breast pump or breastfeeding can cause cracked or sore nipples. It is important to maintain cleanliness and care for the nipples properly.

3. Baby Difficulty Nursing

Some babies may experience difficulty nursing from a mother who is inducing lactation, especially if milk production is still low. Use of an SNS or supplementer can help overcome this.

4. Physical and Emotional Exhaustion

This process requires great effort and can lead to exhaustion. It is important to get emotional support from family and friends.

5. Self-Doubt

When results are not immediately visible, mothers may doubt their ability to breastfeed. Support from a lactation consultant and support groups is essential to maintain morale.

Read also: Early Breastfeeding Initiation: Benefits, Preparation & Success Tips

When Should You Seek Professional Help?

• Milk Production Does Not Increase After Several Weeks
  If there is no increase in milk production after several weeks, the mother should consult a lactation consultant or doctor to evaluate the methods used.
• Experiencing Severe Breast Pain or Signs of Infection
  Severe pain or signs of infection such as redness, swelling, or fever must be checked by a doctor immediately.
• Baby is Not Gaining Weight or Shows Signs of Dehydration
  If the baby is not gaining weight or shows signs of dehydration (rarely wet diapers, dry mouth), the mother should immediately consult a pediatrician.
• Feeling Overwhelmed or Depressed
  The lactation induction process can trigger feelings of being overwhelmed or depressed. If the mother feels this way, it is important to seek professional support or counseling.

Read also: 6 Ways to Naturally Increase Low Breast Milk Supply

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Bunda wajib memilih Hegen Breast Pump karena selain mendukung proses induksi laktasi, pompa ini juga menawarkan kepraktisan dan kebersihan yang optimal. Sistem anti-tumpah Hegen menjaga ASI tetap steril dan aman selama pemompaan dan penyimpanan.

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Referensi:

Alodokter. Induksi Laktasi, Metode Merangsang ASI untuk Para Ibu Adopsi. https://www.alodokter.com/induksi-laktasi-sebagai-alternatif-dalam-menyusui

Hellosehat. Induksi Laktasi, Upaya Memproduksi ASI untuk Ibu Adopsi. https://hellosehat.com/parenting/bayi/menyusui/induksi-laktasi/

IDAI. Relaktasi dan Induksi Laktasi. https://www.idai.or.id/artikel/klinik/asi/relaktasi-dan-induksi-laktasi

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