How to Make Enough Milk

What do Economics and Breastfeeding have in common?

Supply and Demand of course!

Milk supply is one of the most common reasons people book appointments with me. Do I have enough? Why do I have so much? Does my babe need more (or less?) now that they’re eating solids? Growing up? Sick?

So how do you get off to a good start, making sure you make enough milk for your baby? First, your body will use the hormones from pregnancy to make your first milk- colostrum. This rich milk is thick and sticky and perfect in the small quantities it comes in. In the first few feeds on days 1 and 2, baby needs only a few millilitres (literally, like 10!). Keep latching and keep feeding baby.

The second stage of milk making is initiated by the hormone surge which occurs when the placenta is delivered, causing your milk to ‘come in’ on day 3 or so. You’ve always had milk (see above: Colostrum!) but this is a transition to mature milk and you might notice your breasts getting engorged and heavy. Your baby will do the work of releiving this engorgement by feeding, but if they’re not, its important that you pump. If you do not pump and leave your breasts full, you body will get the message that there is no baby, so no need to expend energy to make milk.

Day 9 and onward, you milk will be made on demand, and here is where things can fall apart. Each breast has its own economy- less demands, means less supply. Keep putting in those demands with frequent and effective nursing (or pumping!) and the supply will respond. It is possible, and very common, to have a breast that produces more than the other. There is no need to even them out!

If you find that your milk supply is causing you stress- get in touch. We can talk about what an adequate milk supply would be and how to make a plan to get there.