It’s completely normal to feel unsure about your milk supply, especially in the early days when you’re still getting the hang of breastfeeding. Rest assured, you’re not alone. Many mothers face similar concerns, and reaching out for guidance from your Lactation Consultant or healthcare provider can help ensure your baby is growing as they should. All newborns should be seen by their pediatrician for a weight check within 1-2 days of leaving the hospital.^1,2,3 Regular check-ups in the first few weeks are essential to monitor your baby’s weight gain while establishing your breastfeeding routine. Signs that your baby needs more support with feedings:^1,2,3

• Difficulty latching
• Not waking for feeds or difficulty staying awake during feeds
• Infrequent swallowing while feeding
• Constant feeding cues even after nursing
• Insufficient wet or dirty diapers 
• Brown or green stools after day 4
• Losing more than 10% of their birth weight in the first week
• Developing jaundice
• Poor weight gain

How to Increase Milk Supply

If you’re concerned about your milk supply or your baby is showing signs of needing more milk, here are strategies to help you increase milk production and ensure your baby is getting enough. Remember, breastfeeding is a journey, and these steps may take time.^4,5,6,7,8 Be patient with yourself as you work toward establishing a healthy milk supply:

• Increase Feedings: Try to nurse 8-12 times a day, offering BOTH breasts at each feeding. If your baby is going longer than 3 hours between feedings and not showing interest in nursing, you may need to gently wake them for feedings.
• Perfect the Latch: A proper latch is essential for good milk transfer and comfort. If you’re experiencing nipple pain during feedings or don’t hear or see your baby swallowing, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. A good latch can make a huge difference in both your comfort and your milk supply.
• Use Your Hands: Massage your breasts and apply gentle compressions while breastfeeding AND pumping to help increase milk flow and output.
• Pump After Feedings: Consider pumping for 10-15 minutes after each feeding to help signal your body to produce more milk. This is especially helpful if you’re concerned about low supply. Using a hospital-grade double electric pump can give you the best results.
• Power Pumping: Pumping longer or clustering your pumping sessions closer together 1-2 times per day may help to remove more milk and further stimulate your milk production. Discuss this option with your Lactation Consultant.
• Herbal Supplements: An herbal combination may help to give your supply an additional boost. Always consult with your healthcare provider or lactation consultant before trying any new herbs to ensure they are safe for you and your baby.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water—aim for 8-10 cups per day—to stay hydrated and support milk production.
• Eat Well: Eating enough calories and maintaining a balanced diet is important for your health and milk supply.
• Rest and Recovery: Take time to rest as often as you can. Try to get comfortable during feedings using laid-back or side-lying nursing positions, nap when you can, and keep nighttime feedings as relaxed as possible. 

Risk Factors for Low Supply

While most cases of low milk supply can be managed with effective breastfeeding practices, certain health conditions may make it more challenging to establish a full milk supply. However, even with one or more of these risk factors, many mothers successfully breastfeed with the right support and guidance.⁹ If you’ve experienced any of the following, it’s important to discuss your health history with your lactation consultant and healthcare provider early on. Together, you can create a personalized plan to support your breastfeeding journey:

• History of low milk supply with previous baby
• Insufficient glandular tissue (breast hypoplasia or underdevelopment)
• No breast changes during pregnancy
• History of breast surgery
• Thyroid issues
• Gestational or Type 2 Diabetes
• Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
• Hormonal issues, including infertility
• Obesity, metabolic disorder, insulin resistance
• Retained placenta or Hemorrhage following your baby’s birth

Offering Supplementation

If your baby is showing signs of needing more milk than breastfeeding alone can provide, supplementation can be a helpful tool to ensure they’re getting enough. This is often a temporary solution to support your baby while you work to increase your milk supply.¹⁰ Early intervention can prevent complications like dehydration, jaundice, and excessive weight loss. If supplementation is necessary, here’s how to get started:

• In the Hospital: In the early days, if your baby is having difficulty latching or needs more milk, you can feed your baby small amounts of expressed colostrum, donor milk, or formula with a spoon, medicine cup, eyedropper, or syringe. 
• Once You’re Home: If your baby continues to need additional milk, you might consider trying a Supplemental Nursing System (SNS) or introducing a bottle, while still working on breastfeeding and increasing your supply. 

Seek Support

What If I Have Questions?

If you are interested in learning more, these Aeroflow classes expand on some of the topics discussed above:

• Ultimate Breastfeeding Prep
• Pumping 101
• Moms Circle

Want More Info?

For a directory of Aeroflow’s other Care Guides offering information on pregnancy, baby care, and more, browse our comprehensive list of titles:

References