The Ultimate Guide to Understand & Increase Milk Supply: Part 1

If you’re breastfeeding, pumping, or even considering it, you’ve probably heard advice—maybe from friends, family members, or on social media—about milk supply. It’s normal to have a mix of emotions including that inner worry we all feel as new parents. While providing breastmilk can be a rewarding experience, it can also bring questions and anxieties, especially when milk supply doesn’t seem to match expectations.

In this guide, we’ll clear up the mystery milk supply, outline what’s considered “normal,” and share evidence-based tips to help you confidently support and increase your milk production, whether you’re nursing, pumping, or doing a combination.

What is Normal Milk Supply?

To understand how milk supply works, it’s helpful to know that it’s largely based on supply and demand. Simply put, the more often you remove milk from the breast—whether by nursing, hand expression, or pumping—the more milk your body will produce. Setting a strong foundation early on with frequent milk removal every 2-3 hours can make a big difference. Connecting with an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) can also help you prepare for the arrival of your baby and ensure effective milk removal right from the start.

Here’s an overview of typical milk supply stages:

• Days 1-2: In the first days, colostrum, a nutrient-rich “first milk,” is produced in small yet mighty amounts full of antibodies for your baby. A few teaspoons per feeding are often enough, and newborns usually eat every 2-3 hours, about 10-12 times per day.

• By Day 5: Transitional milk arrives, becoming thinner as your baby’s stomach capacity grows. You may notice fuller, heavier breasts, with milk volumes averaging 1-2 ounces per feed or pump session.

• By Week 2: Mature milk develops, offering all the nutrients your baby needs. At this point, milk volume is typically 2-3 ounces per feeding or pumping session, with babies eating about 8-10 times per day.

• Weeks 4-6: Your milk supply begins to stabilize, and babies often consume 25-35 ounces daily, eating about 8 times a day, including at night.

• Months 2-5: Milk supply generally steadies at the same volume and fat and caloric contents adjust to your babies needs. Babies may have distracted feedings between 3-4 months and may start sleeping longer stretches overnight.

• Month 6 and Beyond: As solid foods are introduced around month six, milk intake generally remains steady for a few months before gradually decreasing around 10-12 months. Your milk supply will continue based on demand, allowing for breastfeeding or pumping to continue as long as you and your baby desire.

Each mom-and-baby pair is unique, and the milk supply volumes and feeding frequencies listed above are averages. While some moms may naturally produce less and face challenges with low milk supply, others may find themselves with an abundant supply, even becoming over-suppliers.

Partnering with a lactation consultant (IBCLC) can provide personalized insights into your specific circumstances, helping you understand your individual milk production patterns.

Common Reasons for Low Milk Supply

If you’re concerned about low milk supply, understanding potential causes can be the first step in finding a solution. Here are some common reasons why milk supply may decrease:

• Infrequent Milk Removal: Breastfeeding or pumping less often can signal your body to slow down production, especially if more than three hours pass between feeds during the day or 4-5 hours at night.

• Inefficient Breastfeeding: If your baby has trouble latching deeply, is very sleepy at the breast, or has oral restrictions, milk transfer may be lower, reducing production.

• Pumping Challenges: Using an insufficient pump, improper flange sizes, incorrect settings, or worn-out pump parts can reduce milk output.

• Physical or Emotional Stress: Fatigue, stress, and not eating well can impact milk production. Taking time for rest and self-care can play a significant role in supporting your milk supply.

• Breast Surgeries: Breast surgeries, such as implants, reductions, or biopsies, may affect milk-making tissue and reduce supply.

• Medical Conditions: Health issues such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, and insufficient glandular tissue (IGT) can impact milk production, as can postpartum health concerns like excessive blood loss.

• Temporary Illness: Common colds, stomach bugs, clogged ducts, and others may yield a temporary decrease in milk volumes, so don’t be alarmed by occasional dips. Generally, milk supply will rebound within 2-3 days.

If any of these factors resonate, consider working with an IBCLC for tailored support and personalized strategies to help you overcome these obstacles and meet your feeding goals.

In the meantime, keep an eye out for our next blog post “Part 2” for ways to increase your milk supply!

*This information is for educational purposes only and we cannot guarantee outcomes. Always consult your lactation providers or healthcare professional for personalized advice.