Breastmilk Low Supply

Boosting breast milk supply often comes down to demand and supply—more frequent nursing or pumping signals your body to produce more. Here are some effective tips:

1. Nurse or Pump More Often

• Breastfeed on demand (every 2-3 hours).

• Ensure a good latch to maximise milk removal.

• Pump after nursing to empty the breasts completely , approx 10 mins per side after feeds.

2. Stay Hydrated and Eat Well

• Drink plenty of water (aim for around 3 litres a day).

• Eat balanced meals with healthy fats, proteins, and complex carbs.

• Include lactation-boosting foods like:

  • Oatmeal

  • Fenugreek

  • Brewer’s yeast

  • Flaxseeds

  • Leafy greens

3. Skin-to-Skin Contact

• Holding your baby close encourages milk production.

• Helps regulate baby’s feeding cues and improves bonding.

4. Avoid Pacifiers and Bottles (especially in the Early Weeks)

• Let your baby nurse often to stimulate supply.

• If using a bottle, try paced bottle feeding to mimic breastfeeding. If baby is a newborn, look into cup feeding.

5. Try Power Pumping

• Mimics cluster feeding to increase supply.

• Over the course of an hour, Pump for 10 min → Rest 10 min → Pump 10 min → Rest 10 min → Pump 10 min.

• Do this once or twice daily for a week and review results.

6. Get Enough Rest & Reduce Stress

• Lack of sleep and high stress can lower supply.

• Ask for help when needed and practice relaxation techniques.

7. Herbal Supplements (Check with a Doctor First)

• Fenugreek, blessed thistle, fennel, and goat’s rue may help.

• Some women find lactation teas beneficial.

• Try our Moana Lactation Cookie recipe

8. Check for Underlying Issues

• Certain medications, thyroid issues, or hormonal imbalances can affect supply.

• If struggling, consult a lactation consultant for guidance.

• Sometimes getting your period back can also leave the supply dipping

• When your baby starts solids, your supply will change - you will notice potentially less milk volume, however the milk has changed its consituents in order to fulfil baby's change in nutrition requirements.

  
  Medication to induce lactation - Domperidone/Motilium - This is only to be used when you have attempted all other methods of increasing breastmilk, after consultation with your GP/specialist, who will usually review you medical history and perform an ECG. You will need to remain in contact your lactation consultant and treating doctor whilst you are on this medication.

Would you like personalised tips based on your situation? 😊 Send us an email or give us a call and we can certainly help you achieve your breastfeeding goals.