If you’re worried that you’re not producing enough breast milk, you’re not alone. Concerns about low milk supply are one of the most common reasons parents stop breastfeeding earlier than planned, but the good news is, supply issues can often be improved with a few changes.
Breast milk works on a supply and demand system. The more milk your baby removes, the more milk your body makes. While some medical conditions or latch issues may require extra support, many people are able to increase milk supply naturally without supplements or medications.
Here’s how to boost your milk supply in gentle, sustainable ways that support both you and your baby.
Is Your Supply Actually Low?
Before taking steps to increase milk supply, it’s worth checking whether you truly have low supply or whether it’s just a case of normal feeding behaviour.
Signs baby is getting enough milk:
- At least 6 wet nappies and 2 dirty nappies per day (by day 5)
- Baby is gaining weight steadily after the first week
- You hear swallowing sounds during feeds
- Baby seems settled between feeds (not constantly distressed)
If you’re unsure, speak to your midwife, health visitor, or a lactation consultant. Low supply is sometimes caused by issues like a poor latch, tongue-tie, or infrequent feeds - all of which can be addressed.
1. Feed More Frequently
The simplest and most effective way to boost supply is to increase breast stimulation.
Try:
- Feeding on demand, not on a schedule
- Offering both breasts at each feed and switch feeding (switching breasts multiple times throughout a feed)
- Using breast compressions during feeding
- Adding in extra feeds during the day (or night)
- Skin-to-skin contact to encourage feeding and comfort
Remember: your breasts are never truly empty; they’re always producing milk. More feeds = more supply.
2. Check and Improve the Latch
A poor latch means baby might not be removing milk efficiently, which can signal your body to make less.
Signs of a shallow latch include:
- Nipple pain during or after feeds
- Baby slipping off the breast
- Clicking noises or dribbling milk
- Poor weight gain or frequent frustration
Remember, finding the best latch is a skill you and your baby learn together.
3. Use Breast Compression During Feeds
This technique can help your baby get more milk from each feed, which helps increase supply too.
How to do it:
- Place your hand over the top of your breast or hold your breast in a “C” shape, away from the nipple so you are not affecting your baby’s latch
- Gently compress your breast and then hold, until you see your baby start to suck and swallow more rapidly again. Once the swallowing slows you can release your breast. Your baby’s feeding may speed up again as you release. As they slow again, do another compression.
It’s especially useful during sleepy or slow feeds.
4. Try Power Pumping
Power pumping mimics a cluster feeding session and can help stimulate higher milk production.
How to power pump:
- Choose a quiet time once a day
- Pump for 20 minutes
- Rest for 10
- Pump again for 10
- Rest for 10
- Pump again for 10
Total: About 1 hour
Use an electric breast pump for efficiency and comfort.
5. Pump After or Between Feeds
Pumping after breastfeeding can help fully drain the breast and signal your body to make more.
Alternatively, you can pump between feeds - just leave enough time before baby’s next feed so you’re not too drained.
Use Lansinoh Milk Storage Bags to safely store any extra expressed milk.
6. Stay Hydrated and Nourished
While drinking tons of water won’t magically boost supply, dehydration and under-eating can impact your energy and output.
Aim for:
- At least 2 litres of water per day
- Balanced meals with protein, healthy fats, and whole carbs
- Healthy snacks during long feeds (nuts, yoghurt, oat bars)
Try to eat and drink before or during feeding sessions to build a habit.
7. Create a Relaxing Feeding Environment
Stress can interfere with the let-down reflex and milk flow. Help your body feel safe and supported by:
- Feeding or pumping in a quiet space
- Using our Hot & Cold Breast Therapy Pad before pumping to support let-down
- Playing calming music or breathing deeply
- Doing skin-to-skin with baby to release oxytocin
Midwife’s Top Tips
- Most of the time more feeding = more milk - keep offering baby the breast
- Use breast compressions during feeds to maximize output
- Use switch feeding to boost your supply
- Don’t skip night feeds - they help boost supply significantly
- Pumping after feeds can gently increase production
- Ask for help early - low supply is solvable with support
Low milk supply can be stressful, but it’s rarely permanent. With the right strategies, support, and a bit of patience, your body is capable of responding to your baby’s needs.
