Breastfeeding issues are not uncommon for new mothers. Whether they are experiencing pain or insufficient qualities and quantities of milk, this can lead to unnecessary stress for the new mother. 
After delivery, a woman’s body is readjusting and changing. One of these changes is when the woman’s body begins to produce milk to nourish her new baby’s development. This transition to breastfeeding is not always the smoothest and many women may experience pain or feel that the quality and/or quantity of their milk is not to their satisfaction. These issues are not uncommon and thankfully there is a natural way to address them- through acupuncture!
Acupuncture restores normal breast milk production to lactating mothers with low milk secretion levels. Research conducted at the Hanzhong Shanxi Hospital demonstrates that the application of a specific set of acupuncture points significantly boosts lactation quantities. Low levels of milk production is often caused by weakness after delivery. Other causes include congenital dysplasia, dietary issues, and stress.
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) principles, childbirth brings great changes to the reproductive organs and the entire body. The functions of the meridians and viscera are easily maladjusted during the recuperative period. In order to ensure sufficient breast milk production, which is vital to the baby’s healthy growth, it is important to provide a timely differential diagnosis and treatment once postpartum low milk secretion is discovered.
According to TCM principles, postpartum low milk productions is primarily caused by “deficiency of qi and blood” or “stagnation of liver qi.” Deficiency of qi and blood can present in insufficient milk production while liver qi stagnation results in coagulation or obstruction of breast milk which can result in breast pain and discomfort.
To read a study that elaborates on how acupuncture can help you with your breastfeeding, please click here
You can try acupressure at home to enhance your milk supply! To read more about how acupressure can benefit your breastfeeding experience, please click here
http://www.healthcmi.com/Acupuncture-Continuing-Education-News/1773-acupuncture-boosts-breast-milk-production
Click here to book an appointment with one of our talented licensed acupuncturists to begin postpartum healing. Postpartum care is one of Healing with Zen’s specialties and would love to be apart of your postpartum recovery.
