The keys to a stable milk supply

Breastfeeding, 0-3 months

We’ll let you in on a secret: even the most experienced breastfeeding moms still wonder whether they have enough milk. It’s just a normal, albeit frustrating, part of motherhood. To put your mind at ease, we’ve put together some key steps you can take to ensure you maintain a steady milk supply.

1. Alternate which breast you offer first

Switching which breast you offer first at each feed helps you create a stable supply in the first six weeks. By regularly nursing from both breasts you’ll also decrease your risk of developing a breast infection and promote your baby’s vision and neck muscle development.

2. Nurse regularly

Milk production works on a supply and demand basis, so each time your baby takes milk from your breast, your body naturally creates more. On the other hand, if your breasts remain full, milk production slows down.

You can prevent this from happening by leaving no more than 4 hours between feeds and feeding at least 6 times a day. Or, if you’re away, use a pump to drain your breasts until your next nursing session.

3. Nurse on demand

A stable milk supply is also in tune with your baby’s needs. By letting your baby feed on demand, you’ll ensure that your milk supply is perfectly calibrated to support your baby’s development.

Most of this calibration is done in the first six weeks, when breastfeeding is being established, but the truth is your breast milk never really stops changing. During a growth spurt, for instance, babies tend to feed more frequently, and in response your body will create more milk to match their appetite.