To produce more breast milk, several effective strategies focus on frequent and efficient milk removal, good nutrition, and self-care:
Key Ways to Increase Breast Milk Supply
- Breastfeed frequently and on demand: Nursing your baby 8 to 12 times in 24 hours stimulates milk production by triggering the let-down reflex and prolactin hormone release, especially including at least one nighttime feed
- Offer both breasts at each feeding: Let the baby feed fully from the first breast before offering the second to ensure thorough milk removal, which signals your body to produce more
- Pump or express milk between feedings: Pumping after breastfeeding or between feeds helps increase supply by emptying the breasts more frequently. Double pumping can be more efficient and effective. Expressing milk even when small amounts are collected initially can increase supply over time
- Breast massage and compression: Massaging the breasts before and during feeding or pumping can improve milk flow and drainage, encouraging more milk production
- Ensure proper latch and positioning: Efficient milk removal depends on good latch and positioning. Consult a lactation specialist if you have concerns about feeding technique or baby's weight gain
- Skin-to-skin contact: Holding your baby close, especially skin-to-skin, helps stimulate milk production and bonding
- Maintain good hydration and nutrition: Eat a balanced diet and drink plenty of fluids. Some mothers find lactation cookies or foods containing galactagogues (e.g., oats, brewer’s yeast, flaxseed) helpful, though evidence is limited
- Rest and reduce stress: Adequate sleep and stress reduction support milk production
- Avoid early introduction of formula or solids: Exclusively breastfeeding or feeding breast milk for the first 6 months helps maintain supply
If these measures do not improve milk supply, consult a healthcare provider or lactation consultant for personalized support and possible medical evaluation
. These combined approaches optimize milk production by maximizing milk removal and supporting maternal health.
