INCREASING MILK SUPPLY: A Comprehensive Protocol

By Andrea Chamberlain, IBCLC

Overview:

Milk supply is primarily driven by frequent, effective breast stimulation, thorough milk removal, and overall maternal well-being. This guide offers evidence-based strategies to support increased milk production, whether you're breastfeeding, pumping, or doing a combination of both.

It’s also important to acknowledge that despite our best efforts, not everyone is able to build a full milk supply. Medical conditions, anatomical differences, or simply unknown reasons may make this goal unattainable. And that is okay.

We are more than enough just as we are—no matter how much breastmilk and/or breastfeeding we can offer. What our babies need most is a loving, nurturing caregiver. Whether you feed your baby with your milk, donor milk, or formula, you are meeting their most important needs. Practicing radical acceptance of our unique circumstances can help us let go, soften, and be present for the fleeting moments of early parenthood.

1. FREQUENT & EFFECTIVE STIMULATION

• Nurse or pump every 2–4 hours (8–12 times per day in the early weeks, then 6–8 times daily as baby grows).

• Use gentle breast compressions when breastfeeding and pumping to increase the flow/output.

• Follow with a few minutes of effective hand expression on each breast after breastfeeding or pumping to express more fully.

Research shows that more complete breast emptying leads to a greater rise in prolactin, the hormone responsible for milk production.

2. BREASTFEEDING TECHNIQUES

• Prioritize a deep latch and optimal positioning to maximize milk transfer.

• Use gentle breast compressions during feeds to keep baby actively drinking.

• Feed on demand (responsive feeding) to align with baby’s natural rhythms.

• Skin-to-skin contact boosts oxytocin, enhancing let-down and milk production.

• Comfort nursing (nursing for soothing between feeds) can help increase supply.

• Switch nursing: Alternate sides when baby becomes sleepy to stimulate active suckling.

• Breast massage & compressions during feeds promote better milk flow.

• Cluster feeding is normal and beneficial—it helps "put in an order" for more milk.

Night feeds are especially effective: prolactin levels peak between midnight and 5 a.m.

3. PUMPING STRATEGIES

• Use a hospital-grade pump (e.g., Medela Symphony) or a high-quality double electric (e.g., Spectra S1). Nurturing Expressions rents Medela Symphonies, or you can check your local hospital or clinic.

• Pump at your maximum comfortable suction level—never beyond your max comfort.

• Use hands-on pumping (gentle massage + compressions) to boost output.

• Power Pumping (mimics cluster feeding to stimulate supply):

  • 20 min pump – 10 min rest – 10 min pump – 10 min rest – 10 min pump

  • Do 1–2x/day as needed for 3–7 days.

I personally find power pumping to be a lot of work and it doesn’t always yield results to justify the extra effort or time, but feel free to try it and see if it works for you.

Make Pumping More Enjoyable:Creating a cozy and comforting pumping setup can make the experience more pleasant and sustainable:

• Set up a relaxing space with pillows, soft lighting, and a comfortable chair.

• Have water, tea, or a favorite drink nearby.

• Keep snacks on hand to stay nourished.

• Queue up a favorite podcast, audiobook, or show.

• Play calming music or use aromatherapy (if you enjoy scents like lavender or citrus).

• Use a warm blanket or cozy socks to help you feel relaxed and grounded.

• Consider journaling, meditation, or looking at photos/videos of your baby to support let-down.

Additional Tips:

• Apply warmth before pumping (compress, heated flanges, warm shower) to encourage flow.

• Avoid heat if dealing with oversupply, engorgement, or clogged ducts.

• Proper flange fit is essential for comfort and efficiency. Consider a pumping consult if unsure.

A calm, supported feeding or pumping environment helps promote oxytocin release for let-down.

4. HAND EXPRESSION

• Practice hand expression 3–6 times daily, especially after feeds or pumping sessions.

• Ideal for increasing drainage and collecting colostrum or small volumes.

Video Guides:

• Dr. Jane Morton: Hands-On Pumping

• Stanford Medicine: Hand Expression Technique

5. REST, HYDRATION & NUTRITION

• Rest and stress management are key—high cortisol can lower supply by inhibiting let-down.

• Consider sleeping through one feed with a partner bottle-feeding expressed milk as sometimes more rest/recovery helps support supply.

• Hydrate well and eat nutrient-dense foods, especially those rich in healthy fats.

  Examples: avocado, nuts/seeds, salmon, eggs, oatmeal.

6. GALACTAGOGUES (Milk-Boosting Foods & Herbs)

Note: Use cautiously and in consultation with an IBCLC and/or your Primary Care Provider. Evidence is limited.

Common Options:

• Oats, barley, fennel

• Brewer’s yeast, moringa, fenugreek

• Goat's rue, shatavari, milk thistle

Possible Inhibitors:

• Large amounts of peppermint, sage, parsley

• Excess alcohol (may suppress let-down)

7. MEDICATIONS, HORMONES & OTHER FACTORS

Potential Supply Inhibitors:

• Hormonal birth control—especially those containing estrogen

• Decongestants like pseudoephedrine (found in Sudafed, Claritin-D, Allegra-D)

• Return of menses—temporary dip is common, but supply often rebounds

Always consult your healthcare provider or IBCLC before starting or stopping any medication.

8. FINAL NOTES

Milk production works on a supply and demand basis—the more milk you remove, the more your body is signaled to make. Increasing supply takes time, consistency, and support.

If your milk supply is not increasing despite these strategies, schedule a consultation with a lactation consultant for a personalized plan.

You are enough. Your worth is not measured in ounces. Your baby needs you—your love, your care, your presence—and that is more than enough.

Disclaimer

As an IBCLC, I recommend products based on what’s best for you and your baby. Some links I share may be affiliate links, meaning I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support my work, but my recommendations are always unbiased. You’re welcome to purchase from any retailer, and I’m happy to provide non-affiliate options if preferred.