How to Get Back Your Milk Supply

Breastfeeding your baby is the perfect way to offer him complete nourishment while you bond with him. You may notice occasional fluctuations in your milk supply throughout your breastfeeding experience. If you̵7;re noticing a temporary reduction and you want to get your milk supply back up, you can implement a few milk-encouraging tips.

Things You'll Need

  • Breast pump
  • Milk storage bags or bottles
  • Water
  • Food
  • Prenatal vitamins

Instructions

    • 1

      Nurse your baby frequently or pump your breast milk if you miss a feeding. You can also pump breast milk after your baby is done eating and store this milk for later use. Your body produces milk according to breast stimulation. The more you nurse or express, the more you will produce. Shoot for a feeding or nursing session once every one to three hours during the first few months and every four hours or so after that.

    • 2

      Cut down on formula bottles and exclusively feed him breast milk. Every bottle of formula you offer means one less meal that you provide. To build your milk supply up and keep it up, you should provide all your baby's meals -- by breast or bottle.

    • 3

      Offer both breasts during a feeding. This stimulates both sides to make milk. You can let your baby finish one breast and then offer the other side or switch sides three or more times during one feeding.

    • 4

      Ensure that your baby is latched on and is effectively sucking. Inefficient nursing can lower your milk supply. Consult a lactation specialist if you are unsure if she is nursing properly.

    • 5

      Drink plenty of water and fluids. Your body needs hydrating fluids to produce breast milk. If you get dehydrated, you may notice a reduction in your milk supply. Caffeinated beverages, alcohol and soda can dehydrate you, so cut these out of your diet or minimize your intake.

    • 6

      Stay healthy and relaxed. According to child development experts at the Kids Health website, stress, illness and some medications can temporarily decrease your milk supply. Take time for yourself every day, even if it̵7;s only 15 minutes. Try postnatal yoga, meditation and deep breathing exercises. Eat a healthy diet and take your prenatal vitamins.

    • 7

      Consult a lactation consultant, your doctor or your baby̵7;s pediatrician if you have further concerns. A professional will be able to provide further guidance and tips to help you get your milk supply back where you want it to be.

    2. Previous:

    Next:

    • Can Babies Have Coconut Milk? Right Age, Benefits And Precautions
      Many parents have been exploring the nutritional benefits of coconut milk for babies since it is a popular plant-based milk alternative. Of course, substituting coconut milk for breast milk or infant formula is a no-go. However, you may add a little
    • Can You Give a Baby Whole Milk at Eleven Months Old?
      After the first six months of life, it is safe to introduce new foods to a babys diet. However, it is important to be aware of a childs delicate stomach and to follow safety recommendations when giving an infant whole milk. Time Frame
    • How to Choose the Size & Flow of a Nipple for Bottle Feeding
      Bottle feeding comes with a variety of choices, from the brand of formula to the type of bottles. All brands of bottle nipples come in different shapes, sizes and flow levels. The specific labeling varies. The package might list age recommendations,