- Updated on Mar 4, 2025
The postpartum period is a special time for new mothers. After a difficult birth, some women may face a real challenge to stimulate their lactation. Fortunately, there are effective solutions to promote breast milk production. You & Milk takes you on a journey to discover the methods generally used to boost lactation and enable peaceful breastfeeding with your newborn.
Increase feedings on demand
The best way to stimulate your lactation is to put your baby to the breast very regularly. That is why I advise you to offer the breast as soon as your baby shows signs of hunger, without waiting for them to cry.
This way, your body will understand that it needs to produce more milk to meet your child's needs. Also, remember to alternate breasts during the same feeding. As soon as the baby sucks less actively, invite them to switch sides. This will allow you to effectively stimulate both breasts and maintain good milk production.
Apply breast compressions during feedings
To increase milk flow and encourage baby to suck longer, you can perform gentle breast compressions. Indeed, when you feel your baby falling asleep at the breast or sucking less vigorously, you can place your hand at the base of the breast and gently press in the direction of the nipple. Know that you should maintain this pressure until the baby starts sucking actively again and then gradually release. It is possible to repeat this gesture several times during the feeding, taking care not to crush the areola. For your information, this tip helps stimulate milk flow and encourages baby to drink more.
Use a breast pump between feedings
In addition to feedings, using a breast pump can help you increase your milk production. Ideally, it is recommended to pump after each feeding, or at least 6 to 8 times a day depending on your needs and fatigue; listen to yourself.
For optimal stimulation, choose a double electric breast pump that you can comfortably place in your nursing bra designed for this purpose. This combination will allow you to extract milk from both breasts simultaneously while keeping your hands free. Note that the collected breast milk can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer, following hygiene precautions. You can use it to supplement feedings if necessary.
Adopt a lifestyle favorable to lactation
Your lifestyle is very important in the lactation process. For this, do not hesitate to rest as soon as possible, allowing yourself naps. Also, think about getting comfortable with your nursing pillow which will also support you during feedings.
On the other hand, I strongly recommend having a balanced and varied diet. Therefore, consume enough fruits, dried fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and calcium-rich foods. Also remember to hydrate regularly by drinking water, nursing herbal teas, or fruit juices. If you are too overwhelmed, do not hesitate to say so, to express your fatigue. It is essential to be supported and surrounded during your postpartum, and that your family and friends are present to help you and allow you to rest and recover. The support of your partner, your family, your friends, or other breastfeeding mothers will be precious to help you live your postpartum and breastfeeding more peacefully.
In conclusion
Thanks to my various tips, you will gradually manage to stimulate your lactation and produce enough milk for your baby. Keep confidence in yourself and your body. With patience, rest, and perseverance, you will experience fulfilling breastfeeding despite the obstacles of the first days/weeks.
