Is it ever too late to increase milk supply?

We asked our expert for her insights.

By: The Willow Editorial Team | August 16, 2021

The easiest time to increase milk supply is during the first two months postpartum because it can become more challenging as your baby gets older.

However, the secret to increasing milk supply at any stage is to empty your breasts as completely as possible as often as possible to create a signal to your body that more milk is required. It’s all about supply and demand.

Try Power Pumping and the Babymoon Method to Increase Milk Supply

Two methods moms use to empty their breasts more than usual are Power Pumping and the Babymoon.

Power pumping is the removal of milk using a breast pump every 15 minutes for 15 minutes in a one to two hour period once a day.
A babymoon consists of cuddling up in bed with your baby all weekend, skin-to-skin and allowing her to feed as often and as long as she wants. It's the combination of emptying the breast and skin-to-skin for the entire weekend that sends a signal that more milk is needed.

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Plan a Diet to Stimulate Milk Production

Did you know that what you eat can play a factor in how much milk you produce? If you're ready to increase your milk supply, try switching up your diet to include galactagogues that help stimulate milk production. Check out the Willow guide on Foods to Increase Milk Supply to get started.

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When is it Too Late to Increase Milk Supply?

A mama's milk supply typically peaks between the first 4-6 weeks. After 6 weeks, it may become more difficult to increase your supply. If you're experiencing a slow start to feeding during the first two months, meet with your lactation consultant and care team to come up with a plan.

If you want to increase your supply after the 2-3 month mark, the best rule of thumb is to continue feeding or pumping consistently. To learn more about creating a pumping schedule that supports healthy milk production, visit the Willow Guide to Exclusive Pumping Schedules.

We hope this was helpful, mama.

Want to ask our IBCLC more questions? Head to Instagram for more conversations every week and ask away.

This article was written in partnership with our International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, Wendy Wright, who loves working side by side with moms and babies to find that secret sauce! She’s also a mother of two and the Mom Experience Lead at Willow Pump.

The content provided here is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of medical professionals. It should not be used to diagnose or treat medical conditions or problems. Please contact your healthcare provider with questions or concerns.