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Breastfeeding Challenges

Inadequate Milk Supply

Many mothers are concerned that they won't have enough milk to satisfy their baby—yet few mothers have this problem. Milk production works on the law of supply and demand. The more your baby breastfeeds, the more milk you will produce, totally meeting your baby's needs. Most mothers produce a sufficient milk supply if they breastfeed their baby often and for long enough periods of time. To stimulate milk production and keep your supply up, consider the following tips:

Unless medically necessary, avoid bottle-feeding until your milk supply is well-established (typically four weeks).
Establish a regular breastfeeding routine.
Remember the law of supply and demand, and breastfeed frequently (eight to 12 feedings every 24 hours).
Wake your baby to breastfeed during the day if he or she sleeps more than three hours.
Try to keep your baby awake while he or she nurses. Typically, a baby should actively suck for about 10 to 15 minutes per breast before dozing off. Rouse your baby while he or she nurses by talking to him or her, holding him or her upright, and massaging or rubbing his or her back. It may also help to remove blankets or clothes, since sucking tends to decrease at warmer temperatures.
Watch for feeding cues and breastfeed when your baby seems hungry. Rooting (when your baby's mouth opens wide, ready to suckle), brushing a hand across his or her face or making little sucking motions are all indications that it is time to breastfeed.
Feed your baby until he or she is content; burp him or her well, and then breastfeed a second time.
Above all, relax during breastfeeding to encourage let-down (milk ejection reflex).

Keep in mind that many babies lose weight during their first week of life and regain it within the next two to three weeks. If your baby does not regain lost weight, or if he or she is gaining very slowly, contact your doctor or a lactation consultant.

This publication is for general informational purposes only and it is not intended to provide any reader with specific authority, advice or recommendations. Where you deem necessary, we suggest that you seek advice regarding your particular situation from the appropriate professional.