Fenugreek can increase milk supply, but should only be used under the guidance of a lactation consultant or doctor. It is not harmful, but may not be effective for those with underlying health conditions. Additional herbs and supplements can be used, but if a woman cannot produce enough milk, she may have insufficient glandular tissue.
You should only use fenugreek for lactation support under the guidance of a lactation consultant or doctor. Although there are no known health risks from taking this herb, you may have other problems with your milk supply that you are not aware of, so for best results make sure you are treating the correct condition. Once you have approval to start supplementing with fenugreek, take the recommended dosage and then increase from there until effective.
The use of fenugreek dates back hundreds of years. It is used as a galactogogue, which is a substance that helps stimulate the production of prolactin within the body. Prolactin is the hormone that triggers a woman’s breasts to produce milk. Normally, a baby’s suckling alone is enough to trigger this response, but those who have low prolactin may need additional supplementation.
In a study of women, it was found that almost all breastfeeding mothers noticed an increase in milk supply when taking fenugreek for lactation. Most women find that their milk supply increases within a few days, although for some this may take longer. Generally between six and 12 capsules per day are needed for this herb to work properly. That is a maximum dose of approximately 3000mg.
Using fenugreek for lactation has not been shown to be harmful to mothers or babies, but if you are still not getting the results you want, you may have an underlying health condition. Thyroid disease and other hormonal problems can hinder breastfeeding success. If you have other symptoms of a hormonal imbalance, you should see your doctor for the necessary tests.
You can use additional herbs and supplements when taking fenugreek for lactation. These can include hops, milk thistle, and alfalfa. Some commercial brands offer pre-mixed combinations of these herbs. Talk to your doctor before taking any medication or dietary supplement.
Occasionally, a woman simply cannot produce enough milk to feed her baby, even with lactation support from fenugreek. If she did not feed when the milk came in, she had little or no change in her breasts during the pregnancy, she has large areolas, and she produces milk in lumps or patches, it is possible that she has insufficient glandular tissue. The symptoms usually occur in combination with certain physical traits, so speak to a lactation consultant for a firm diagnosis.
Some women never have glandular production during pregnancy, either because their breasts are not fully developed or due to hormonal complications. In these cases, there simply isn’t enough space to store the milk. This is rare, although an estimated 4,000 women per year who give birth will have insufficient glandular tissue.
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