Overcoming Low Milk Supply: The Thompson Method's Gentle Approach to Breastfeeding Success
Breastfeeding: A Journey of Love, Nourishment, and Resilience
For many mothers, the path to breastfeeding can be fraught with challenges, particularly when they are ’told’ or are concerned that they have low milk supply.
In these moments of uncertainty, finding a solution that restores your confidence in your ability to nourish your baby becomes paramount.
Challenges in Breastfeeding: Low Milk Supply
Dr Robyn Thompson (PhD), an experienced Midwife and breastfeeding consultant (over 50 years), has witnessed the highs and lows of thousands of breastfeeding mothers, who were doubting themselves, often based on someone else’s opinion.
In the busy hospital system, healthcare professionals are often time poor, which means they may not be in a position to take time to sit beside a mother with her newborn, to observe her breastfeeding, listen to her and offer gentle suggestions.
In Dr Robyn's PhD research, over 60% of mothers experiencing breastfeeding complications had formula introduced before they had been discharged from hospital. While it's important to acknowledge that there may be times when formula can be a benefit, for most healthy babies, with an APGAR Score of 7 or above, the introduction of formula is unnecessary.
Some women report formula being introduced as a way of 'being able to be discharged' from hospital.
Dr Robyn Thompson states that understanding the principles of breast milk production, from the first breastfeed where the baby draws down the mother's colostrum, to the first 72 - 96 hours where breast milk volume is 'gradually' increasing, is so important for a woman to make informed decisions over this very important time.
Dr Picture: Robyn Thompson providing support and guidance to a first time breastfeeding mother.
The Emotional Toll of Low Milk Supply
For many mothers, the diagnosis of low milk supply is simply overwhelming.
It's not just about the physical aspect of producing enough milk; it's also about the emotional toll it takes.
The thought of not being able to provide for your baby, coupled with the pressure to meet certain benchmarks within a specific timeframe, can be paralysing for a mother, no matter how experienced she may be.
Learn how to improve your milk supply
Sarah’s Story: Overcoming Doubt
As Sarah shares in her story, she began to doubt her own ability to breastfeed and provide for her baby.
The Evolution of The Thompson Method
Dr Robyn Thompson didn’t set out to create The Thompson Method Breastfeeding Program
It evolved out of necessity because she could see that the hospital system was failing so many women, in particular with breastfeeding.
Every mother and every baby is unique.
And guided by Dr Robyn's knowledge, experience and wisdom, The Thompson Method is fully respectful of this.
"It's not about a ‘one size fits all’ approach."
"It’s about sharing the information that I have gained over 50 years as a midwife, so that women like Sarah can reclaim her right to breastfeed, on her terms", says Dr Robyn.
Understanding Breast Milk Production
One of the most profound aspects of The Thompson Method is the encouragement for women to understand the principles of breast milk production.
Many women (and some health professionals) have an expectation that a woman's breasts will be full in preparation to breastfeed. While, this may be the case for some women, for most, breast milk production is a gentle, gradual process over the first 72 - 96 hours after giving birth.
Regular, rhythmical hormone production, preferably by the healthy baby feeding frequently over the first 72 - 96 hours (possibly longer after a C-Section), gradually increases breast milk production.
It's not immediate.
Colostrum is low in volume, rich in nutrients and is the perfect preparation for your newborn baby's gut.
The newborn baby's stomach is tiny (Dr Robyn uses the analogy of being around the size of your baby's closed fist), so it stands to reason why your baby can only take small amounts, which is why frequent feeding is so important over this time and why Dr Robyn focuses so closely on the 3 Golden Hours.
The Importance of the First Breastfeed (The 3 Golden Hours)
In her PhD research, Dr Robyn discovered that most common breastfeeding complications are closely associated with a delay or interruption to the first and early breastfeeds.
“It all comes back to the first breastfeed”
The passionate Midwife goes on to say, "This is why my team and I came up with the concept of the 3 Golden Hours. I wanted to help women understand that the events that occur during labor and birth greatly influence breastfeeding."
Like it or not, hospital policies and procedures are not designed to be in the best interests of a breastfeeding mother and her baby. These days, it takes confidence to push back against a system that is rushing women through to early discharge.
Dr Robyn encourages women to be well informed so that they understand, that in the absence of an urgent or emergency situation, where your baby's Apgar Score is 7 or above, then you have the right to have your baby in your arms.
Learn how to avoid low milk supply
Be well informed. Be confident. Trust your instincts.
Dr Robyn's vision is that more women will become well-informed for themselves (preferably during pregnancy) so that less women will have to endure the pain and stress from common breastfeeding complications, that in many cases, could have been avoided.
In a society where the pressure to breastfeed can sometimes feel overwhelming, having a support system that believes in your ability to succeed can make all the difference.
To breastfeeding mothers grappling with low milk supply, the message is clear...
You are not alone, and there is hope.
Education is still key to building your confidence and will help you understand the most important principles of breastfeeding. Once you understand the ancient principles of breast milk production, you'll be more inclined to start trust your instincts, which will be your most trustworthy guide.
Learn how to improve your milk supply
Personalised Support for Breastfeeding Mothers
Breastfeeding is a constant struggle for so many mothers - first time and experienced.
And it's important to acknowledge that a mother will ultimately know what's best for her and her baby. It's important that her decision is respected and supported.
Some women make the decision to introduce formula and give up on breastfeeding and are at peace with it.
But if you're feeling stressed or overwhelmed because you would like to continue breastfeeding if at all possible, a 1:1 private breastfeeding consultation may be beneficial for you, so that you can get the help you need when you need it most.
Overcoming Self-Doubt and Fear
Regardless of how old your baby is, it is possible to overcome self-doubt and fear.
Reach out for help, and believe in the transformative power of your unique journey ahead.
Dr Robyn encourages you to be realistic in your expectations for increasing milk volume, as it is a gentle, gradual process that is based on regular, rhythmical hormone stimulation.
Embrace the Journey
Breastfeeding is a beautiful and natural process, and with the right support and guidance, every mother has the potential to thrive.
Embrace the journey, trust in yourself, and know that you are capable of giving your baby the best possible start in life.
May your breastfeeding journey continue for as long as you choose ❤️
Discover The Thompson Method Breastfeeding Programs to accompany you throughout your unique breastfeeding journey.
I'm Pregnant | I'm Breastfeeding | I'm a Health Professional | I need breastfeeding help
Wondering how The Thompson Method has transformed the lives of breastfeeding women all around the world? You can read their stories here. It's a space filled with support, triumphs, and raw honesty.
Here are just a few stories...
