1. Prepare for Marathon Nursing
It seems kind of backwards to empty your breasts in order to increase milk supply, but it works. Breastfeeding is a supply and demand process. Your body is signaled to make more breast milk when your breasts are emptied. Feed your baby every 2 hours around the clock to increase your supply. This is one time where you actually benefit from waking a sleeping baby. Even if your little one sleeps a good stretch through the night, wake him up to empty the breast for a few nights until your supply increases.
2. Linger on One Side
If you currently switch breasts halfway through a feeding, try something new. Leave your baby on one side for the entire feeding. This encourages the breast to empty completely, and actually gives the baby a chance to get the rich and filling hind milk toward the end of the feeding.
3. Breast Pump Keeps It Going
Sometimes there is a supply issue when your baby isn't emptying the breast adequately. Or, your baby might not wake up to feed every 2 hours. Whenever you are unable to get the baby to empty the breast, pump to stimulate supply. You might not see a lot of milk emptying from your breasts as you pump, but the pumping action stimulates milk supply and should be kept up for about 5 minutes per session. Anytime you have the choice between pumping and nursing your baby, nurse your baby. Your baby empties the breast more efficiently than the pump does.
4. Don't Forget to Drink
You need to drink water if you want to make breast milk. If you're trying to increase your breast milk supply, drink at least 8 cups of water a day. Caffeinated beverages aren't going to hydrate you like water is. Add a lemon wedge to your water bottle if you think you're more likely to drink it that way. Hydration is key to a healthy milk supply. To make it easier, every time you sit down to nurse, bring a glass of water with you.
5. Eat Well and Rest Up
Increase your milk supply by taking good care of yourself. Eat healthy, well-balanced meals regularly throughout the day. It's a good idea to try and eat five or six small meals throughout the day rather than three large meals. You'll keep your body going strong all day this way, and it helps you get the energy you need to keep up with the demands that your body is making. Rest as much as you can, and do your best to get enough sleep over the course of a 24-hour period.
