Things You'll Need:
- Breast pump (optional)
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Step 1
Breast-feed your baby more frequently. Allow your infant to breast-feed for as long as she wants. If your baby usually breast-feeds six times each day, encourage her to nurse seven or eight times instead. When you allow your baby to breast-feed more frequently, your body will receive the message to produce more milk.
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Step 2
Offer both breasts at every feeding. Be sure to allow your baby to nurse at the first breast for as long as possible, until she slows down or stops sucking and swallowing. Then, offer the second breast.
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Step 3
Use the "switch nursing" technique. This technique is best for sleepy babies. Switch breasts two or three times during each feeding when the baby's suckling slows down and she swallows less frequently.
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Step 4
Check that your baby is latching on properly. Your baby's lips should be on the areola part of your breast and well beyond the nipple.
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Step 5
Limit your baby's suckling to the breast only. Eliminate pacifier use and offer the breast instead. If you are using supplemental food or formula, feed the baby with a spoon or cup instead of a bottle.
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Step 6
Use a breast pump in between feedings. When your baby is asleep or has just finished a feeding, use a breast pump for five to 10 minutes on each breast to provide extra stimulation and increase milk supply. Don't be discouraged if you don't produce much milk during pumping, because the stimulation is the goal.
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Step 7
Take care of yourself. Be sure to get plenty of rest and relaxation, as well as a proper diet and enough fluids. Limiting your stress, eating well and staying hydrated are keys to a healthy milk supply.
