Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. A number of things affect how much milk your breasts make (your milk supply). The two most important things are how often you breastfeed and how well your breast is emptied. Breastfeeding stimulates the hormone that prepares your breasts to make milk (prolactin). So the more often you feed your baby and empty your breasts, the more milk your body makes. Breast milk changes over time with a baby's nutritional needs. It's common to worry about not making enough milk. But low milk supply is rare. It may take time for your milk supply to get going. If you don't think your baby is getting enough milk, try breastfeeding more often. If this doesn't help, talk to your doctor or lactation consultant. If you have a problem with your milk supply, they can help you solve it. Talk to your doctor before taking any herbal remedies or medicines to increase your milk supply. The effects of herbal remedies and some medicines on milk supply haven't been well studied. They may have side effects. Follow these tips to help build and maintain your milk supply. In the first 2 weeks, your baby will breastfeed at least 8 times in a 24-hour period. This will help you keep up your supply of milk. Then switch to the other breast. It's best to switch which breast you start with each time. Touch your baby's lower lip to get your baby's mouth to open. Wait until your baby opens up really wide, like a big yawn. Then bring the baby quickly to your breast—not your breast to the baby. This will help improve your let-down reflex. Talk to your doctor before you take any medicines. Experts recommend waiting about a month until breastfeeding is going well before offering a bottle. Current as of: July 10, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Current as of: July 10, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review Board This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content. To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise.org. © 1995-2024 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.Topic Contents
Breastfeeding and Your Milk Supply
Overview
Low milk supply
Building your milk supply
Related Information
Credits
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Current as of: July 10, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review BoardBreastfeeding and Your Milk Supply
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.