Can you start producing milk again after stopping?

Can You Start Producing Milk Again After Stopping?
The journey of breastfeeding is often filled with twists and turns, and many mothers find themselves asking whether it’s possible to start producing milk again after having stopped. The answer is a resounding yes—relactation is indeed possible, though it requires commitment and patience.
Understanding Relactation
Relactation refers to the process of re-establishing milk production after a period of not breastfeeding. This can be motivated by various reasons, such as a desire to continue breastfeeding after a break, addressing a change in circumstances, or simply a wish to provide breast milk for a baby who may have been exclusively formula-fed. Experts emphasize that with the right approach, most mothers can successfully relactate, even if they have not breastfed for an extended period.
The Mechanism Behind Milk Production
Milk production is primarily driven by the principle of supply and demand. When a baby suckles at the breast, it stimulates the release of the hormone prolactin, which is crucial for milk production. This hormonal response can also be triggered by using a breast pump if the baby is not nursing directly. Therefore, frequent stimulation of the nipples—whether through breastfeeding or pumping—is essential to kickstart the milk-making process again.
Steps to Successfully Relactate
1. Frequent Stimulation: To begin the relactation process, mothers should aim to stimulate their breasts regularly. This can be done by encouraging the baby to suckle or by using a breast pump. Experts recommend doing this every two to three hours to mimic a newborn’s feeding schedule.
2. Patience is Key: It’s important for mothers to manage their expectations. Milk production may not resume immediately, and it can take several days to weeks to see significant results. Health professionals often advise mothers to evaluate their progress in increments of three to five days.
3. Support and Resources: Seeking support from lactation consultants can be invaluable. They can provide tailored advice and strategies to enhance the relactation process, ensuring that mothers feel supported throughout their journey.
4. Consideration of Factors: Various factors can influence the success of relactation, including the duration of time since breastfeeding stopped, the mother’s overall health, and her emotional state. It’s crucial to approach this process with a positive mindset and realistic goals.
Conclusion
In summary, while the prospect of relactation may seem daunting, it is entirely feasible for most mothers. With dedication, the right techniques, and possibly the guidance of a lactation expert, many women can successfully restart their milk production after a break. This journey not only fosters a deeper bond between mother and child but also provides the nutritional benefits of breast milk that many mothers wish to offer.

How do I restart my breast milk production?

To help stimulate lactation:

1. use hand-expression or a breast pump.
2. put your baby to your breast to suck at each feeding and for comfort between feedings as often as possible.
3. hold your baby close to your breast when bottle-feeding and use a slow flow bottle teat.

How difficult is it to relactate?

Your baby may resist nursing for a week to two before they settle back down to breastfeeding, and it may take weeks for your milk supply to increase. To improve your chances of relactating, try to keep your nursing sessions relaxed and pleasurable for both you and your child.

How long after stopping breastfeeding can you start again?

Don’t set a time frame on it, some mums can get supply up within a few weeks’ others take 6-8 weeks. The breastfeeding journey is different for everyone.

Can you save breastmilk that wasn’t finished?

How do I store and serve leftover breast milk? Leftover breast milk can still be used within 2 hours after the baby is finished feeding. After 2 hours, leftover breast milk should be thrown away. To avoid wasting unfed milk, consider storing, thawing, and warming it in smaller amounts.

When is it too late to increase milk supply?

A breastfeeding mom’s milk supply typically peaks between the first 4-6 weeks. After 6 weeks, it may become more difficult to increase your supply. While that doesn’t mean it’s too late to increase your milk supply, it might take a bit more time and patience to start seeing results.

Is it possible to go back to breastfeeding after exclusively pumping?

Yes, it is possible! The likelihood of success centers on the reason you are pumping. If you started pumping because your baby had a tongue tie, and you baby still has that tongue tie, then breastfeeding may not be comfortable for you or an efficient way to feed for your baby.

Can breast milk come back after drying up?

Some parents impacted by the baby formula shortage may be wondering if they can start breastfeeding again. A process known as re-lactation can help patients produce breast milk, even if it has been weeks or months since they did so.

When is it too late to relactate?

Relactation is the method of training your body to produce milk after not lactating for a period of time. It’s possible to relactate if you haven’t produced breast milk in weeks, months, years — or ever.

How late is too late to increase milk supply?

NO, it is NEVER too late! 🚫⏰ With the right pump, flange, and schedule, you can absolutely increase your milk supply at any stage of your pumping journey.

Can I relactate just by pumping?

For most people, relactating or inducing lactation starts with expressing. If your child is not yet willing to suck on your breast, or you are preparing for breastfeeding before you have your child with you, you can use a breast pump and/or hand express to build up a milk supply.