Feeling unsure about your breast milk supply is completely normal—especially in the first few weeks as you and your baby are learning to breastfeed. Every baby is different, and it can take time for your body to adjust and produce the right amount of milk.

All newborns should have a weight check with their pediatrician within 1–2 days of leaving the hospital. Regular follow-ups in the first few weeks help ensure your baby is thriving while you establish your breastfeeding routine. This guide offers practical tips, gentle encouragement, and support as you work toward increasing your milk supply—so you can feel confident and nourished while giving your baby the best start possible.

Is Breastfeeding Going Well?

Breastfeeding can feel like a learning curve, and it’s normal to have questions about whether your baby is getting enough breast milk. Paying attention to your baby’s feeding patterns, diaper output, and overall behavior can help you know if breastfeeding is going smoothly—or if you might need extra support. Watch for these common signs that your baby may need additional help:

  • Difficulty latching

  • Not waking for feeds or difficulty staying awake during feeds

  • Infrequent swallowing while feeding

  • Frequent feeding cues even after breastfeeding

  • Developing jaundice

  • Insufficient wet or dirty diapers

  • Brown or green stools after Day 4

  • Poor weight gain or losing more than 10% of their birth weight in the first week

Risk Factors for Low Supply

Most cases of low supply can be managed with effective breastfeeding practices. However, certain medical conditions may make establishing a full milk supply more challenging. Please know that even if you have one or more risk factors, many mothers go onto successfully breastfeed with the right support. Discuss your health history with your lactation consultant and healthcare provider early to create a personalized plan to support your breastfeeding journey:

  • History of low milk supply with previous baby

  • Insufficient glandular tissue (breast hypoplasia or underdevelopment)

  • No breast changes during pregnancy

  • History of breast surgery

  • Thyroid or hormonal issues, including infertility

  • Obesity, metabolic disorder, insulin resistance, including Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), Gestational or Type 2 Diabetes

  • Retained placenta or postpartum hemorrhage

Offering Supplementation

If your baby is showing signs of needing more than breastfeeding alone can provide, supplementation can be a helpful tool to ensure they’re getting enough. This is often a temporary solution to support your baby while you work to increase milk supply. Early intervention can prevent complications like dehydration, jaundice, and excessive weight loss. If supplementation is necessary, you may be able to use alternative feeding methods to support continued breastfeeding. Here’s how to get started:

  • In the Hospital: Feed small amounts of expressed colostrum, donor milk, or infant formula with a spoon, medicine cup, eyedropper, or syringe if your baby is having difficulty latching.

  • At Home: Consider using a Supplemental Nursing System (SNS) or introducing a bottle while continuing to breastfeed and work on increasing your supply.

How to Increase Milk Supply

If you’re concerned about your supply being able to meet your baby’s needs, here are strategies to help you increase milk supply and ensure your baby is getting enough milk. And remember, you may not see immediate results. Breastfeeding is a journey, and these steps may take time. Be patient with yourself as you work toward establishing a healthy milk supply. Here are some tips:

Perfect the Latch

A proper latch is essential for good milk transfer and comfort. If you’re experiencing nipple pain during feedings or don’t hear or see your baby swallowing, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. A good latch can make a huge difference in both your comfort and your milk production.

Use Your Hands

Massage your breasts and apply gentle compressions while breastfeeding and pumping to help increase milk supply and output. It's also a great tool for learning your unique breast structure, helping you identify how full you might be and if your breasts are well drained after breastfeeding or pumping.

Increase Feedings

Aim to breastfeed 8-12 times a day, offering both breasts at each feeding. If your baby is going longer than 3 hours between feedings, you may need to gently wake them for feedings.

Pump After Feedings

Consider using a breast pump for 10-15 minutes after each feeding to help signal your body to produce more milk. Using a hospital-grade double electric pump can give you the best results.

Power Pumping

Using an electric breast pump for longer or clustering your pumping sessions closer together 1-2 times per day may help to remove more milk and further stimulate your production. Discuss this option with your lactation consultant.

Stay Hydrated & Eat a Balanced Diet

Breastfeeding doesn't require gallons of water per day, but you will feel better when you are well hydrated. So drink plenty of water—aim for 8-10 cups per day—to stay hydrated and support breast milk production. Eating enough calories and maintaining a balanced diet is important for your health and milk supply. Remember, you are nourishing your own body for a strong recovery from pregnancy and childbirth, while also providing all the nutrition your baby needs to thrive.

Herbal Supplements

Postpartum traditions around the world often use herbs and foods to support postpartum recovery and increase milk supply. It's important to always consult with your healthcare provider, a qualified herbalist, or lactation consultant before trying any new herbs to ensure they are safe for you and your baby.

Rest & Recovery

Take time to rest as often as you can. Try to get comfortable during feedings using laid-back or side-lying nursing positions, nap when you can, and keep nighttime feedings as relaxed as possible.

Seek Support

Breastfeeding is a journey, and increasing your milk supply takes time, patience, and support. Celebrate the small victories along the way, whether it’s an extra ounce expressed, a more comfortable latch, or a peaceful feeding session. Remember, asking for help is a strength, not a setback—your lactation consultant, supportive family, and friends can all make a big difference in your success.

Don't forget to take care of yourself along the way—nourish your body, rest when you can, and tend to your mental health. You are doing an amazing job, even on the tough days. With patience, support, and the right strategies, you can increase your supply and enjoy the special bond that comes with breastfeeding.

Disclaimer: Our classes and accompanying materials are intended for general education purposes and should not replace medical advice. For personalized recommendations, please consult your healthcare provider and/or lactation consultant.