I’m sure you’ve heard all the crazy tips and have seen all the lactation treats that you can eat or drink to “increase your supply.” Unfortunately, the majority of those products are just a sales gimmick and in the end still won’t help your milk supply. On a positive note though, these tips are ways to increase your milk supply naturally and save you from wasting your money on endless products. 

 Ensure Baby has a Deep Latch

Ensuring that your baby has a deep latch is a healthy way to increase your milk supply. If your baby doesn’t have a proper latch, your nipples will feel sore and uncomfortable. When it comes to nursing, there shouldn’t be any pain or discomfort. If the latch isn’t deep, your baby will be unable to drain your breast effectively causing your milk supply to dip. I actually have a great video here showing how to properly latch your baby.

 Feeding on Demand

Another way to establish a healthy milk supply is to be feeding on demand. When your baby is showing hunger cues, it’s time to nurse. Your milk supply is based on supply and demand; the more milk that you are removing, the more your body is going to produce. Feeding on demand will allow your body to know exactly how much milk it needs to produce to meet your baby’s needs.

 Pumping After Feeding

Like I said, your supply is based on supply and demand. A great way to tell your body that it needs to produce more is by pumping after a nursing session. Emptying your breasts will stimulate your body to make more and start increasing your milk supply.

 Skin to Skin Contact

We often only hear about doing skin to skin contact after baby is born, but there’s so much value in doing this often. Not only does your baby love it and it’s so beneficial for him/her, but it’s great for your supply too. Once your baby is done nursing, do skin to skin time with your baby for about 20 minutes.

 Take Care of You Too

Breastfeeding takes a huge toll on your body, so it’s important that you are staying hydrated and eating enough throughout your day. Being dehydrated can dramatically decrease your production. Keeping healthy snacks and water by your nursing station is a great way to ensure you are eating and drinking enough.

 Reach Out for Support

If you are still struggling or unsure what is going to help you best, schedule a 1:1 lactation consultation here. We are trained in what we do and can provide support and guidance for you along your journey.