5 Ways to Increase Milk Supply

Breastfeeding is a wonderful way to bond with your baby and provide them with nutrition. Breastfeeding can be really rewarding, but it can also be very stressful. As a doula, the most common concern I hear about breastfeeding is low milk supply. Here are five tips from a doula about how to increase milk supply:

1. Nurse often: Breastmilk generally runs on a supply-and-demand system. The more often your baby nurses, the more milk your body will produce, hopefully! Don't be afraid to let baby nurse as long as they want, even if you don't think they're getting much. Aim to nurse at least 8-12 times per day.

2. Skin-to-skin contact: You will be AMAZED at what skin-to-skin can do for your supply! This is also helpful for bonding, especially in the few days after birth. Skin-to-skin works by stimulating all those love hormones, thus telling your body to make more milk.

3. Use a breast pump: This one is a bit controversial, but I am team breast pump all the way. Not only can it help stimulate production, but it can give you a break if you have a particularly aggressive baby. You can also try to pump after nursing; 2-3 times per day of pumping after nursing should do wonders for your milk supply!

4. Take care of yourself: As a new mom, it can be pretty eye roll worthy when people tell you to take care of yourself, but it's serious! Eating and drinking enough has a huge influence on your milk supply. Listen to your body when it tells you to eat and drink!

5. Find a lactation consultant: this is my number one tip with anything breastfeeding related. There is no blog post or internet article that can replace a good lactation consultant. They can provide personalized advice and support for you and your baby. If you don't know where to find one, your child's pediatrician or your ob/gyn are both great places to start!

It's important to recognize that everyone's breastfeeding journey is unique and there's never a one-size-fits-all solution. You are not a failure if you're having issues breastfeeding or if you choose not to do it at all! Fed truly is best, and don't let anyone tell you otherwise!