Will Cesarean Delivery Affect Breast Milk Production?

Cesarean delivery is a common mode of delivery in modern medicine. However, some mothers are concerned that cesarean delivery will affect their milk supply. So, do mothers who have had a cesarean delivery really have less milk?

Does cesarean delivery affect milk production?

Currently, there is no definitive evidence in the medical community to suggest that cesarean delivery directly affects milk production. However, some studies have shown that mothers who have had a cesarean delivery may have slightly less milk in the first few days after delivery than mothers who have had a vaginal delivery. This is because cesarean delivery causes a slight decrease in the levels of hormones that stimulate breast milk production.

Reasons that may affect milk production in mothers who have had a cesarean delivery

In addition to the decrease in the levels of hormones that stimulate breast milk production, there are a number of other factors that may affect milk production in mothers who have had a cesarean delivery, including:

• Postpartum recovery: If a mother who has had a cesarean delivery does not recover well postpartum, it may affect her milk production.
• Emotional factors: If a mother who has had a cesarean delivery is not emotionally well postpartum, it may also affect her milk production.
• Nutritional intake: If a mother who has had a cesarean delivery does not consume enough nutrients, it may also affect her milk production.

How can mothers who have had a cesarean delivery increase their milk production?

If you are a mother who has had a cesarean delivery, you can take the following steps to increase your milk production:

• Stay in a good mood: Staying in a good mood can help promote breast milk production.
• Get plenty of rest: Getting enough rest can help your body recover and promote an increase in milk production.
• Drink plenty of fluids: Drinking plenty of fluids can help your body stay hydrated and promote breast milk production.
• Eat a nutritious diet: Eating a diet rich in protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals can provide your body with the nutrients it needs to promote an increase in milk production.
• Nurse on demand: Whenever your baby needs to feed, try to nurse them to stimulate milk production.

If you encounter any problems while breastfeeding, please consult a doctor or lactation consultant.

In summary, whether or not a mother who has had a cesarean delivery has less milk depends on a number of factors. If you are a mother who has had a cesarean delivery, please maintain a positive attitude and actively cooperate with your doctor and lactation consultant. You are sure to be successful in breastfeeding.

References

1. Hale, P., & Aronson, W. L. (2007). Human lactation. Elsevier Health Sciences.
2. Neville, M. C., & Anderson, J. W. (1988). The effect of cesarean delivery on early lactation. Pediatrics, 82(5), 682-685.
3. Lawrence, R. A., & Lawrence, R. M. (2011). Breastfeeding: A guide for the medical profession (7th ed.). Elsevier Health Sciences.
4. World Health Organization. (2017). Infant and young child feeding.