Establish a Good Breastfeeding Supply

Here are some breastfeeding tips to establish a good breastfeeding supply right from the beginning.

1. Provide Frequent Feedings to Your Baby

Newborns should nurse up to 12 times every day. The breastfeeding milk supply that you produce is dependent upon the amount of stimulation your breasts receive from your baby’s feedings. Try to use both breasts each feeding (by alternating starting sides) and don’t attempt to limit feeding times.

2. Eat a Well-Balanced Diet

Take care not to miss meals and continue to eat well. (Need good breastfeeding diet suggestions?)

3. Drink! You Will Need Plenty of Fluids.

Breastfeeding mothers need to drink lots of fluids. If you remember to drink something every time you nurse your baby, you will be fine. Try leaving ice water near you to drink during your night feedings and frequently carry a water bottle to remind yourself to drink more.

4. If Possible, Rest When Your Baby Rests.

Laundry will wait. A toddler can rest with you as well. Just remember, it is extremely important for a new mother to rest. Your breastfeeding milk supply is very dependent on it. In fact, you should sleep when the baby sleeps for at least the first two weeks. This is a special time for you and your sweetie. Forget everything else and enjoy it!

5. Try to Relax During Feedings

This encourages letdown and allows breast milk to flow freely. Find a quiet place to nurse, if possible, and lie down if this is more comfortable. Breastfeeding milk supply is enhanced if you are comfortable and relaxed while you nurse.

Following these breastfeeding tips will get your breastfeeding supply off to a great start!

Where Would You Like to Go Next?

Want to see our breastfeeding
supplies Top 10 list?

Want to see the latest fashions for nursing moms in our Breastfeeding Finds Blog?

....or to see answers to
Frequently Asked Breastfeeding Questions?

....or see where you can find the
best free baby stuff?

Return from Breastfeeding Milk Supply page to
How to Breastfeed Page

Return from Breastfeeding Supply page to
Breastfeeding Magazine Home Page