Relactation

What is relactation? It is increasing milk supply that has gone down or is completely gone after weeks or months of not breastfeeding. There are a lot of reasons why mothers may choose to relactate. It is important to know that it may be possible, but requires time, patience, determination, and a strong support system. The most effective strategy is frequently removing milk.

If baby will latch:

• Nurse at least 10-12 times in 24 hours. Focus on frequent, effective, around-the-clock nursing. Don’t skip night time feedings.
• Ideally offer each side at least twice per feeding. Each time the baby comes off the breast, offer the other side.
• Massage your breast during feedings to increase milk flow. This will also help keep baby actively sucking longer.
• Avoid pacifiers and other soothers that can reduce time spent nursing.

If baby will not latch, use a WIC pump to build milk supply:

• Follow similar tips as noted above, pump at least 10-12 times in 24 hours. Don’t skip night time pumping.
• Use massage during pumping and hand express after pumping. Express long enough to remove all the milk.
• Try power pumping if you have a healthy, full term baby. Set up your pump somewhere you frequently pass and is comfortable to sit or stand. Every time you pass the pump, stop and pump for 5-10 minutes. You can pump into the same bottle and use the same equipment without cleaning for up to 4 hours.

It can take a month or more to produce a significant amount of milk. Call your local WIC office and talk to one of our breastfeeding experts for support and guidance.

Sources: Breastfeeding Answers: A Guide to Helping Families, 2nd edition & International La Leche League