How to help your breastmilk supply come in sooner

If you’re a new mom or nursing for the first time you have questions! I did (a ton of them)! One common thing that comes up is wondering what you can do to help your milk supply in those first few days after giving birth. Here are a few things to consider:

• Nurse 4-6 hours after giving birth. If that isn't possible, start pumping instead. A hospital-grade breast pump is ideal, but for me, I used a hand-held breast pump that worked great.
  
  
• Nurse often. Breastfeed your baby at least every 2 hours (from the start of the first nursing session to the next) with no more than 4 hours at night.  The more you nurse, the greater milk production. You can read more about how much milk your baby needs, stage by stage, here. 
  
  
• Avoid supplementing with formula if it isn't necessary. Do not supplement baby with formula unless directed by a doctor. Supplementing will reduce breast stimulation and milk removal (both needed to increase milk supply). Please talk with your doctor and a lactation consultant whenever you have a question.  
  
  
• Check the latch. If your baby is not latching well and actively swallowing milk, it can affect milk supply and the speed that your milk comes in. A lactation consultant can help you with getting a proper latch. Signs of a good latch include no sharp pain after the first few seconds, your child's lips are flanged outward like a fish and not tucked in, and more of the areola is visible above baby’s lips than below. Also if your breasts feel softer after nursing that is a good sign as well (in addition to whether your child seems satisfied). 

This mom is nursing her baby in a breastfeeding tee with zipper access. 

If you are an expecting mother or family member of an expecting mother, education is key! I attribute my breastfeeding success to the lactation courses I took while I was pregnant. Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help or suggestions! It made the difference for me during my breastfeeding journey. There are also several groups online that can help connect you with a lactation consultant. You’ve got this mama!