3 Tips to build your milk supply
Breastfeeding can be a rewarding journey, but many mothers face challenges when it comes to milk supply. If you’re looking to increase your milk supply, here are three proven tips that can help you make a significant difference.
Tip 1: Rethink Supplementing
If you’re supplementing with formula or expressed milk, it’s essential to reverse the common pattern to increase your supply. Typically, parents might try breastfeeding first and then offer a supplement if needed. However, this can inadvertently lead to the baby becoming more accustomed to and dependent on the bottle. To tackle this, try offering half of the supplement first and then breastfeed. This way, your baby will spend more time at the breast, encouraging natural milk production. You might still need to finish with some supplement after, but this approach can gradually shift to exclusive breastfeeding if that’s your goal.
Tip 2: Forget the Clock—Listen to Your Baby
Many mothers are advised to time their feeds, but this can sometimes hinder milk production. Instead of focusing on time, consider the “dinner and dessert” approach. Let your baby feed fully from one breast (the “dinner”) until it’s nearly empty, signaling your body to produce more milk. This helps maintain a healthy supply. Offer the other breast as “dessert,” which your baby may or may not take. Alternate starting sides with each feeding to ensure both breasts receive equal stimulation and encourage a balanced milk supply.
Tip 3: Use Breast Compression
Breast compression is a simple yet effective technique to make breastfeeding more enjoyable for your baby and beneficial for your milk supply. By gently squeezing and holding your breast while your baby is latched, you help express more milk. This additional stimulation encourages your brain to produce more milk, supporting a healthy supply. Breast compression not only assists in milk flow but also keeps your baby content and engaged during feeding.
By implementing these three tips, you can effectively boost your milk supply. Consistency and patience are key—give these strategies some time and observe the positive changes in your breastfeeding experience. Still have concerns or want to discuss further? Join the conversation in the comments section, and let’s support each other in this breastfeeding journey.
If you need more support
I lead a team of Registered Nurses and Nurse Practitioners around the globe, who share my programs and who I personally mentor.
If you are struggling with your baby or child, you can reach out and we can help. We do in person and virtual feeding assessments. We also offer women’s health services and can help you achieve optimal hormonal health. Our services are often covered through insurance.
You can find the nurse closest to you here. If you need more help you can reach out to [email protected].
Thank you so much for being a part of our community,
Carrie Bruno RN, IBCLC, MSCP
