Here is the entire text that was published in the ABM News and Views, Vol 6 No 3, 2000.  I agree with Dr. Wight that this is a pilot study.  The results are encouraging, but additional studies need to be done before fenugreek can be proven truly effective.
Linda L. Shaw MD FAAP

EFFECT OF FENUGREEK ON BREAST MILK VOLUME

Stephanie Swift, MD and Pamela Berens, MD
University of Texas-Houston Medical Center, Houston, TX

Background:  Fenugreek is a popular herb used in the lay population as a galactogogue though scientific research regarding efficacy has not been published.  Objective:  To assess the effect of fenugreek on breast milk production in exclusively breast-pumping women.  Methods:  Ten women kept diaries of their breast milk production for two weeks.  The first week established baseline milk production.  During the second week three capsules of fenugreek seed were taken three times daily.  This observational study used each patient as her own control in comparing breast milk production with and without the fenugreek.  Results:  Average daily pumping volumes for week 1 and week 2 were compared.  These values were statistically analyzed using the Wilcoxon signed rank test.  The average daily milk volume for week 1 was 207 ml compared to 464 for week 2.  This increase was statistically significant (P=0.004)  Conclusion:  The use of fenugreek significantly increased volume of breastmilk!
 produced.  Further study of the herb and its effects on the lactating breast is certainly warranted.  The use of fenugreek to improve lactation could offer help to women with insufficient supply.

The ABM Newsletter can be obtain by subscription by contacting the ABM.  Their Web site is:  www.bfmed.org

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