Are you a breastfeeding parent wondering how to increase your breast milk supply? We’re here to help! Breastfeeding frequently, especially for the first few hours, days, and weeks after your baby is born, is the primary way to increase your supply. Your body produces milk on a supply-and-demand basis. This means that the more milk comes out, the more you will have later.
Here are some additional tips on how to increase your milk supply:
Breastfeed your baby every time they are hungry.
In the first few weeks your baby is born, they will eat 8-12 times in 24 hours on average. It is best not to put your baby on a feeding schedule during this time. You want to follow your baby’s cues and let them tell you when they are ready to eat.
Ensure your baby has a good latch.
When your baby does not have a good latch, it will be painful for the parent and will not allow milk to come out properly.
Offer both breasts at each feeding.
Do not remove your baby from your breast after a specific time. Let your baby finish, and then let them try the other side. The next time you feed, offer the other side first. Being a new mom, you might not remember which side to start first. A trick is to use a hair tie. Put a hair tie on your right wrist. After feeding on both sides, switch the hair tie to your left wrist. So, the next time you provide, you know to start on the left side.
Empty your breast at each feeding.
You can hand express and pump after feeding to draw out all the milk and signal your body to make more.
Avoid bottles and pacifiers in the early weeks.
These items do not help your baby want to latch.
Get enough sleep and eat a healthy diet.
The more you take care of yourself, the more milk you will produce.
Pump or hand express your milk.
Pump or communicate milk frequently between nursing sessions, especially when your baby is away from you.
Relax and massage.
Relax, hold your baby, and do more skin-to-skin contact. Massage your breast before feeding to encourage milk to come down.
Drink water.
More water, more milk.
If you’re worried about your baby getting enough milk, click here to read our other blog!
As always, reach out to a Family Support Navigator with any questions or concerns at navigation@familyfutures.org or contact us on our website. We would love to help you find some techniques that work for you and your family! You’ve got this, parents!
