Mothers who return to work or who have infants with trouble latching can continue to reap the benefits of breast milk by using a breast pump. Breast pumps are designed to extract breast milk that can be fed to your infant right away or stored for later. Many mothers find pumping challenging, especially when it comes to increasing milk supply. Increasing the frequency and duration of your pumping sessions, paired with a few lifestyle changes, can help improve and maintain your milk production.
Step 1
Invest in a high-grade breast pump. Several companies offer electric pumps that allow you to pump both breasts at once. Dr. Williams Sears suggests pumping both breasts simultaneously to increase milk production. For an inexpensive option, rent a dual-pump from your hospital, local La Leche League chapter or a lactation consultant.
Step 2
Eat a healthy diet, establish an exercise routine and drink plenty of water. Keeping yourself healthy benefits your milk supply.
Step 3
Visualize your baby when you pump to stimulate letdown, according to La Leche League International. Keep your baby, a photo of him or an article of his clothing nearby as you pump. If you are at work, call your child's caregiver to talk about your baby before you pump.
Step 4
Increase the frequency of your pumping sessions. The Breastfeeding Basics website recommends pumping at least eight times in a 24-hour time period to increase your milk supply. Set the pump to the maximum setting, which mimics the active sucking a baby exhibits at the beginning of a nursing session.
Step 5
Make yourself comfortable. If you feel stressed about milk production, practice relaxation techniques or take a few deep breaths before pumping. According to La Leche League, stress cools your body temperature, which can affect milk production and your letdown reflex. Create a comfortable, relaxed environment for your pumping sessions.
Step 6
Pump early in the morning, when your milk supply is highest. Sears recommends adding another pumping session in the morning to improve supply. Set an alarm for a time earlier than you'd normally wake up, then pump and return to bed. Pump or nurse again once you've woken up for the day.
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