Breastfeeding is a beautiful way to nourish your baby and create a deep emotional connection, even if you didn’t carry them yourself. For adoptive mothers or those who have welcomed a baby through surrogacy, you might wonder if breastfeeding is possible. Through inducing lactation, a process that encourages milk production without pregnancy, you can provide your baby with the benefits of breast milk while creating a unique, nurturing bond that strengthens with each feeding

Having the guidance of an experienced professional can make all the difference. An International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) can help you develop a plan for inducing lactation, answer your questions, and provide support every step of the way, giving you confidence as you begin this journey.

How Can I Induce Lactation?

Before you begin, take the time to learn about inducing lactation and breastfeeding. Understanding the process—how to initiate milk production, the necessary hormones involved, and how your body responds—will help you feel more confident and prepared. Inducing lactation works by stimulating the mammary glands and milk ducts, often with the help of hormones or herbal supplements. A personalized plan with your lactation consultant can help set realistic expectations and tailor the approach to your needs.

Preparing for Breastfeeding

It’s possible to establish milk production for your baby even if you’ve never been pregnant or given birth. Success often comes from a consistent approach—regular breast stimulation through breastfeeding or pumping encourages your body to produce more milk over time. The amount may vary depending on your individual situation and medical history, as well as how early and consistently you start the process. Even small amounts are valuable, and any milk you express before your baby arrives can be frozen for later use.

Start as Early as Possible

A recent pregnancy or prior lactation experience can influence milk production, but even if you’ve never been pregnant, research shows that regular pumping, frequent breastfeeding, and a strong support system can help your body begin making milk. Inducing lactation takes time, so starting as early as possible often leads to better results. An early start gives your body more time to prepare for lactation—though it’s important to know it’s never truly too late to begin. While a full supply may not always be attainable, most mothers are able to produce at least some milk, and every drop is meaningful.

Regular Pumping

Many mothers rely on hormonal medications or herbal remedies, but some are able to produce milk through stimulation alone. Regular breast stimulation—including hand expression, massage, and pumping—is essential. Use a hospital-grade breast pump for 15–20 minutes, at least eight times per day. Following pumping, try gentle hand expression to remove additional milk and encourage further production. Consistency is key, and every bit of stimulation helps your body respond.

Hormone Protocol

Hormonal medications and herbal supplements can support production by preparing your breasts and stimulating the mammary glands and milk ducts. Hormone therapy is designed to mimic the natural changes your body experiences during pregnancy, promoting breast tissue growth in preparation for lactation. Working with a healthcare provider is essential to ensure safety and effectiveness while following a hormone protocol.

Common components of a hormone protocol include:

  • Oral contraceptives (birth control pills): Contain estrogen and progesterone, prescribed for several months prior to your baby’s arrival to encourage hormonal changes that naturally occur during pregnancy. In many induced lactation protocols, birth control pills are discontinued several weeks before beginning prolactin-stimulating medication. Stopping the pills allows your body to adjust hormonally and prepare for lactation.

  • Prolactin-stimulating medication: Typically started 6–8 weeks before your baby’s arrival, if you have time. Combined with regular pumping, this medication raises the hormone prolactin, which stimulates milk production.

  • Herbal supplements: Some mothers choose herbal remedies to support lactation. Consult your lactation consultant or healthcare provider before starting any supplements.

After Your Baby’s Arrival

Breastfeed Early & Often

Begin breastfeeding as soon as possible, offering the breast frequently. Direct nursing often produces better results than pumping alone, as the combination of nipple stimulation and suckling helps boost supply. Aim to spend a lot of time at the breast, to encourage your body to produce milk.

Supplemental Nursing System (SNS)

An SNS can be a helpful tool, allowing your baby to receive any needed supplements while breastfeeding. This ensures your baby is well-fed while providing additional breast stimulation to increase production. Using a nursing supplementer can make feedings more satisfying for both of you, reinforcing your breastfeeding relationship.

Pump After Feedings

Pumping after breastfeeding maximizes milk removal and further boosts supply. Even a few minutes of post-feeding hand expression or pumping can make a noticeable difference over time. Consistency is key to sustaining and increasing production.

Diaper Output and Weight Gain

Monitor your baby’s wet and dirty diapers and track their weight gain to ensure they’re receiving enough nutrition. If necessary, formula supplements or expressed or donor milk can help fill any gaps. Your lactation consultant can guide you on how to balance supplementation if your baby needs extra milk.

More than Milk

Breastfeeding is about so much more than milk. It’s an opportunity to offer warmth, comfort, and security while building a special bond with your baby. While some mothers may produce only a small amount, the act of nursing itself—through quiet moments, skin-to-skin contact, and gentle touch—creates a connection that benefits you both.

Encouragement for Your Journey

Inducing lactation can feel like a big undertaking, but remember that every drop counts and every moment of nurturing touch matters. Your dedication is a powerful way to bond with your new baby. Some days may feel challenging, and supply may fluctuate, but your love, consistency, and patience are the most important ingredients in this process.

Celebrate each small milestone—whether it’s the first drop of milk, a longer nursing session, or simply holding your baby close at the breast. Working with a supportive lactation consultant can make the journey feel more manageable and joyful. Trust your instincts, honor your efforts, and know that the bond you’re building through breastfeeding is a beautiful and lasting gift—for both you and your baby.

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.