Feed more frequently? On the surface it doesn’t appear to make sense – wont I run out of milk? The repeated stimulation of the breast will actually help to increase supply.

Herbal ‘galactagogues’, that is herbs that increase milk supply, can be used. These include Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graceum) and a number of other herbs.

Keep up the fluids, eat well and avoid excessive exercise as this can reduce milk supply.

Fennel oil massaged into the breasts is one option (wash the oil off before you feed), or take Fennel capsules or tea (up to 1.8 g/day).

Fennel has the advantage of having carminative (benefits digestion) and antispasmodic effects on the digestive system. This can be useful if the baby suffers from colic.

Fenugreek was used traditionally to enhance lactation and was believed to ‘strengthen the bond between mother and child’.

It should be avoided if mum has coeliac disease and in large doses can inhibit iron absorption. It is also used by herbalists to lower blood sugar levels. It can be taken in capsule form or as a tea.