I have to admit, up until very recently I was staunchly against use of herbal supplements to increase milk production. Then a trifecta of change hit: I wasn't able to pump as often, I got sick and my son decided he didn't want to eat solids as much. The net result? A hit on my milk supply and lowered production. It was bad, and I became extremely concerned I was drying up and the end was near.
SO ... I decided to reconsider Fenugreek. After much belabored research, I took a chance on the maple-syrupy herbal supplement, and held my breath.
The result? A noticeable increase in my milk production. Yes - noticeable! Dramatic, no, but it brought me back up to normal (where I had been down by nearly 50%). Of course, I have to mention this was MY experience and yours may differ, but I can say with confidence it is worth the effort if you are desperate.
Side effects include maple syrup smelling BO. Seriously, not to get too personal (though I think we crossed that line long ago), but my armpits smelled like maple syrup. It's crazy. That's it though ... no aftertaste or burping, no weirdness. There are blood-sugar level effects, but nothing that I noticed. Then again, I'm not diabetic, so be sure to do the proper research before taking the plunge.
Some links as you start your research:
Fenugreek - An Herb to Increase Milk Supply
What is the most important information I should know about fenugreek?
All About Fenugreek
Fenugreek: One Remedy for Low Milk Production
Fenugreek: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions and Warnings
Good luck, moms.
