
Lactation Support in Pregnancy/Postpartum: Essential guide for Breastfeeding ("Amrutam")
Breastfeeding is often described as “Amrutam” – a life-giving nectar for newborns. But while it’s natural, breastfeeding doesn’t always come easy. From low milk supply to improper latching, many new mothers face unexpected challenges. That’s why lactation support during pregnancy is not just helpful—it’s essential.
In this guide, we’ll break down how lactation works, the role of lactation counsellors, and how AADEE supports Indian mothers-to-be with personalized care.
Table of Contents
⮞ What Is Lactation, and How Does It Happen?
⮞ Who Are Lactation Specialists and What Do They Do?
⮞ Why Is Lactation Support Important During Pregnancy?
⮞ How a Lactation Counsellor Helps You Step by Step
⮞ AADEE’s Approach to Prenatal and Postnatal Lactation Support
⮞ Understanding “The Amrutam Breastfeeding” Concept
⮞ Summary and What to Do Next
What Is Lactation and How Does It Happen?
Lactation is the body’s process of producing breast milk. It starts during pregnancy and continues after your baby is born.
During Pregnancy:
Your body produces hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and prolactin.These hormones prepare your breasts to produce milk.
After Birth:
Once the placenta is delivered, progesterone drops, and prolactin kicks in to produce milk.Your baby’s sucking triggers oxytocin, which helps in the let-down reflex—the release of milk.
In the early days, you produce colostrum—a golden, nutrient-rich fluid full of antibodies. This is the baby’s first “Amrut” (nectar) of life.
Who Are Lactation Specialists and What Do They Do?
Lactation specialists (also called lactation consultants or counsellors) are trained professionals who support you through your breastfeeding journey.
They help with:
⮞ Proper latching and feeding positions
⮞ Managing pain, soreness, or engorgement
⮞ Addressing low or excess milk supply
⮞ Guiding mothers with medical conditions (PCOS, diabetes, inverted nipples)
⮞ Teaching pumping and breastmilk storage
⮞ Their role is physical, emotional, and deeply supportive—helping you build confidence.
Why Is Lactation Support Important During Pregnancy?
Most moms start thinking about breastfeeding after delivery—but by then, you’re tired, emotional, and overwhelmed. Prenatal lactation support prepares you in advance.
Why it matters:
⮞ Understand how your body prepares for lactation
⮞ Learn how to latch and position your baby correctly
⮞ Be mentally and emotionally ready
⮞ Reduce panic about common issues (like nipple pain or cluster feeding)
⮞ Involve your partner for complete support
⮞ Lactation counselling during pregnancy gives you a calm, confident start.
A Lactation counselor becomes your go-to guide for honest, science-backed answers.
➡️ UNICEF emphasizes that early breastfeeding support significantly improves both maternal and child health outcomes. Read more on UNICEF
How a Lactation Counsellor Helps You Step by Step
1. Prenatal Education (7th–8th Month):
They teach how milk is made, how to prepare your nipples, and what happens after birth.
2. Customized Breastfeeding Plan:
Personalized advice based on your health, baby’s condition (e.g., twins, premature), or delivery type.
3. Emotional Reassurance:
Many women ask, “Will I have enough milk?” – Your counselor helps answer this with facts and comfort.
4. Postnatal Guidance:
From first latch to feeding frequency, they stay with you even after birth.
5. Troubleshooting Support:
Whether it’s engorgement, cracked nipples, or milk flow issues—they help resolve it quickly.
AADEE’s Approach to Prenatal and Postnatal Lactation Support
At AADEE, we blend ancient wisdom with modern science to support your breastfeeding journey holistically.
Our lactation care includes:
Prenatal sessions with certified experts
In Indian tradition, breast milk is often called “Amrut” (nectar of life). The phrase “The Amrutam Breastfeeding” reflects both the sacredness of breastfeeding and its scientific value.
It also relates to initiatives like the AMRUT educational program by the Medical Learning Hub, which promotes maternal health and awareness.
Breastfeeding is not just feeding—it’s nourishment, bonding, and immunity rolled into one. It’s your baby’s first natural medicine.
What to Do Next
Breastfeeding is powerful, natural, and beautiful—but that doesn’t mean it’s easy. Having a lactation expert by your side from pregnancy through postpartum makes the journey smoother, less stressful, and more joyful.
With AADEE’s lactation support, you’re never alone in this journey.
FAQs
Q: When should I start lactation counseling?
A: Ideally between your 28th – 32nd week of pregnancy.
Q: Can I still breastfeed with conditions like PCOS or C-section delivery?
A: Yes. A lactation consultant will personalize a plan that works for your condition.
Q: What if I can’t produce enough milk?
A: Most mothers can produce enough with the right support, diet, and techniques. Rare cases may need medical help.