5 Important Tricks for Boosting Milk Supply

Let’s be honest, when you want to breastfeed and something goes wrong, it can be heart-wrenching.  And there are so many moms who experience so many problems! From a poor latch, to a fussy baby who is refusing the boob, to low milk supply, there are a million and one different problems that nursing mamas face. Breastfeeding is hard!

One breastfeeding problem that so many new moms experience is low milk supply. Luckily, it’s also a problem that can sometimes be solved quickly and easily.  Here are some of our most tried and true suggestions.

1. Stay nourished and hydrated

If you are hungry and dehydrated, chances are your body isn’t going to have the sustenance it needs to make milk. Most new moms are astonished by how hungry breastfeeding makes them. Make sure you have a huge water bottle and a jar of snacks next to you when feeding. It will go a long way toward keeping your supply up.

2. Add in pumping sessions

Any time you feel like your supply is dipping, try adding in a pumping session in between feedings. The more your body thinks it needs to produce, the more it’s going to actually produce. This can be true even if you’re not a brand new mom. Some moms find that after being sick their supply dips a lot, even if they had a great one to start. That’s when adding in a pumping session can really make a difference.

3. Talk to your doctor about supplements

There are a ton of products on the marketplace that are aimed at increasing milk supply. One of the most common is fenugreek which comes in teas and capsules. Some people swear by oatmeal, and there are a ton of lactation cookie recipes that you can try. Your doctor may also have some supplements to recommend.

4. Take away the pressure

As we talk about at ICBP all the time, fed is best. Breastfeeding doesn’t work for everyone and sometimes the stress of trying so hard to breastfeed can actually hinder your progress. It can be very cathartic and helpful to take a step back and recognize that there are amazing formulas on the market and you can supplement your breastmilk if necessary. Sometimes just granting yourself that permission is enough to destress your body and allow it to do its work of making more milk.

5. Stick with it

This doesn’t go hand-in-hand with taking away the pressure, but there will be rough patches for any nursing mama, and it’s important to do what is best for you and your baby. Sticking with it is the only way you are going to keep that supply as high as it will go.

At Insurance Covered Breast Pumps, we know that the pumping life is mom life. And we want you to be successful!

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