How to Produce More Breast Milk for Baby

At some point, every breastfeeding mother worries about not making enough breast milk. While this is a common concern, as La Leche League International reports, most women can make ample breast milk to nurture their babies for optimum health. If you have been diagnosed with a low or insufficient milk supply, take steps to make more milk to meet your baby's needs.

Instructions

1

Breastfeed often, every two hours or 10 to 12 times a day, and feed on demand. Breastfeeding frequently will keep your breasts relatively empty and will stimulate your body to produce more milk.

2

Breastfeed frequently during the night. Sleep close to your baby by keeping his crib or bassinet near your bed.

3

Practice "switch feeding," alternating between your breasts several times during each feeding. If your baby is sleepy, this will encourage him to suck more energetically for a longer time. Burp your baby between sides to help him stay awake.

4

Compress your breast to stimulate letdown when your baby slows or stops suckling. This will keep the milk flowing for your baby. Cup your breast with your thumb on top and the other fingers below, then place gentle pressure on the breast as you massage toward the nipple.

5

Check your baby's latch (see Resources). Poor latch can reduce the amount of milk your baby drinks and depress your milk supply. Call a lactation specialist or a breastfeeding support person right away if your baby is having trouble latching on.

6

Breastfeed in a comfortable spot. Use a nursing or bed pillow to support your arm at the appropriate height. Good positioning will help you avoid back and shoulder pain and keep you feeding long enough to encourage greater milk production.

7

Pump your breasts right after you breastfeed. Your body will produce more milk as if your baby were still suckling, stimulating your milk supply. Use a double electric breast pump that imitates a baby's suckling pattern.

8

Take an herbal or prescription galactogogue, as recommended by your doctor or lactation consultant. Herbal galactogogues such as fenugreek and milk thistle, and pharmaceutical galactogogues such as metoclopramide or domperidone, can increase milk supply in some women.

9

Breastfeed anywhere. Feeding consistently, no matter where you are, will help you produce more milk and establish a plentiful milk supply.

10

Avoid pacifiers. Your baby should only suck at your breast. If your baby is given a pacifier when he needs comforting, he may not feed often enough to establish your milk supply.