When you become a new mother, you often hear the saying, "Breast milk is the best thing for your baby." It's true. But sometimes, no matter how hard you try, breastfeeding your baby isn't as easy as you think. There can be many reasons for this, but the main one is that the mother's body is producing less milk . So today we're talking about a special device that can help you and your baby at times like these.
What is this Supplemental Nursing System (SNS)?
Simply put, a Supplemental Nursing System (SNS) is a small device that you use to provide your baby with extra nutrition while you are breastfeeding. It involves feeding your baby milk through a very thin tube connected to a bottle or bag filled with breast milk or formula as recommended by your doctor.
Imagine, as your baby sucks at your breast, the baby also gets milk from this little tube that is attached to it. This not only stops the baby from getting hungry and fussing, but it also helps stimulate your breasts and naturally increase milk production.
Remember, having to use a device like this is not a flaw or a failure on your part. Every mother's journey is different. The most important thing is to get help where you need it.
How does this SNS tool work?
Although these SNS devices come in different shapes, the basic functionality of all of them is the same.
This usually consists of a bottle or small bag filled with formula or expressed breast milk. It has a very thin, flexible tube attached to it. One end of this tube is arranged so that it goes into the container of milk and the other end into the baby's mouth.
Often, this tube is attached to the mother's breast with medical tape, right next to the nipple , so that the end of the tube goes into the baby's mouth. Then, when the baby starts to suckle, the tube goes into the baby's mouth along with the nipple.
The biggest advantage of this method is that the baby gets milk from both sides at once.
1. From your breast: Your body is stimulated by your baby's sucking and milk is produced.
2. From the SNS tube: At the same time, the baby also receives the extra milk that comes from the tube.
Even a baby who is fussy and hungry due to not enough milk, or who does not like to latch on to the breast, will get enough milk this way, so the baby will drink calmly and happily.
What are the causes of decreased breast milk production?
There are several reasons why your body may be producing less breast milk. It is important to be aware of these reasons before using an SNS.
Remember, when your baby sucks your breast, your body produces a hormone called prolactin . This is the main hormone that stimulates milk production. So, mothers with low milk supply may have less production of this hormone.
Let's look at some of the common reasons that affect this in the table below.
| Reason | How it affects |
|---|---|
| Breast surgery | The mammary glands or ducts may have been damaged by a previous surgery. |
| Smoking and alcohol | These affect the body's hormonal function, especially prolactin levels. |
| Lack of sleep and stress | Lack of adequate rest and excessive fatigue directly affect milk production. |
| Some birth control methods | Birth control pills, especially those containing estrogen, can reduce milk production. |
| Formula feeding and less breastfeeding | As the baby sucks less often, the body receives fewer signals to make milk. |
| Starting solid foods early | Introducing solid foods before 4-6 months can reduce the amount of breast milk your baby drinks and reduce milk production. |
What are the types of Supplemental Nursing System (SNS)?
There are several types of SNS you can choose from to suit you and your baby. It's best to discuss this with your doctor or a lactation consultant .
1. Homemade System
If you want to try it out before you buy an SNS, you can use this method. All you need is a regular baby bottle and an infant nasogastric feeding tube . These tubes are usually available in hospitals. You can make this by making a small hole in the teat of the bottle and inserting the tube through it. However, these tubes are not designed to be sterilized. Therefore, when they get a little old and become rough, you should throw them away and use a new one.
2. Disposable Bag System
This comes in sterilized, disposable bags. This bag comes with a strap that can be hung around the mother's neck, making it very easy to use. The tube is very delicate. The specialty of this is that it is designed to only release milk when the baby sucks the breast. So the milk does not go to waste. This is very convenient to use when traveling or going out.
3. Bottle System
This system comes with two bottles and two tubes attached to them. This makes it easy to switch between the right and left breasts. You can also choose tubes of different widths to control the flow rate according to your baby's needs. This is an environmentally friendly option as the bottles and tubes can be washed, sterilized, and reused.
More tips to increase breast milk supply naturally
An SNS is often a temporary solution. While using it, the most important thing is to try to increase your body's milk production naturally. Here are some tips to help you with this.
- Feed your baby whenever he is hungry. In the early months, this may be every 1-2 hours. Feeding your baby every time he asks will give your body a good signal to produce milk.
- Try to breastfeed from both breasts at once. When you're done with one side, feed from the other side.
- Avoid giving bottles and dummies/pacifiers as much as possible in the first few weeks. The hormone prolactin, which your baby receives from breastfeeding, is very important for you until your milk supply is established.
- Think about your nutrition and rest. Eat a good nutritious diet . Get plenty of sleep whenever possible. Get some sleep when your baby sleeps.
- Pump when you're away from your baby. If you're away from your baby for work or other activities, pumping can help keep your milk supply going.
Whatever you do, if you have any questions about breastfeeding, don't hesitate to talk to your family doctor. He or she will be able to provide the best solution for you and your baby.
Take-Home Message
- A Supplemental Nursing System (SNS) is a device that helps you and your baby when breastfeeding is difficult, not a sign of your failure as a mother.
- This not only provides the baby with the necessary nutrition, but also stimulates the mother's breasts and helps to naturally increase milk production.
- Be sure to seek the advice of a doctor to choose the type of SNS that is best for you and your baby.
- While using SNS, focus on eating nutritious foods, getting enough rest, and breastfeeding your baby frequently to naturally increase your milk supply.
- It is very important to seek medical advice before making decisions on your own regarding any breastfeeding-related issues.
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