Tips to Increase Milk Supply
Click here to watch a video about how to boost your milk supply.
Here are seven tips to increase milk supply:
Top two things to remember
Supply = demand.
The more often and fully the breasts are emptied, the more milk they will make.
The baby is usually better than a pump for removing milk.
Work with a lactation consultant
Do you think you’re not making enough milk? If so, you should work with a lactation consultant. Make sure to choose an internationally board-certified lactation consultant.
- They can help make a plan that works for you.
- As you build up your supply, your baby may need more food than you are making.
- They can help you meet your goals while baby gains enough weight.
Dual pump
- After breastfeeding, dual pump for 15 minutes.
- Make sure to use your hands to massage around the breast while pumping.
- This will help them get as empty as you can.
Feed baby (or pump) more often
- The more often baby feeds, the more milk you will make.
Try cluster pumping
- Try cluster pumping if you are only pumping your milk.
- How to do it: Pump for 10 minutes, then stop for 10 minutes. Repeat this process three times.
- You do not need to wash pump parts between each pumping. Wait until the set of three is done.
- There’s no need to empty bottles unless they are too full.
- Once done, place all the milk in the refrigerator.
Help baby cluster feed
- Pump every hour for four hours in a row until the breasts are as soft as you can get them.
- This stimulates a cluster feed by baby.
If you still feel like you are not making enough milk…
- You may feel this way because baby is coming to the breast so often. But this may be normal behavior. It may be caused by a growth spurt, illness or developmental spurt.
- Work with your lactation consultant if you are unsure of your supply.