Maintaining Your Milk Supply: A Guide for Breastfeeding Moms
- Virtual Breastfeeding Inc.
- Aug 27
- 3 min read
Breastfeeding is a beautiful way to nourish and bond with your baby, but many moms worry about their milk supply. Is my supply enough? Is it too much? What’s normal? In this blog, we’ll cover what you can expect, signs of healthy supply, and tips to maintain or boost your milk production naturally.
What’s a Normal Milk Supply?
Every mom and baby pair is unique, but here are some general benchmarks:
Daily intake: Babies between 1–6 months usually drink 19–30 oz (750–1,035 ml) of milk per day, averaging around 25 oz (750 ml).
Hourly production: On average, breasts produce about 1–1.25 oz per hour, totaling around 24 oz (710 ml) per day.
⚠️ Remember, how much milk you make is about meeting your baby’s needs, not a number on a chart.
Signs of a Healthy Supply
Your baby is gaining weight steadily
Daily minimum: 6–8 wet diapers and 3–4 dirty diapers
Baby appears content and satisfied after feeds
Your breasts feel softer and less full after nursing or pumping
⚠️ Important: If your baby is not producing enough wet diapers, contact your pediatrician right away. Low urine output can be an early sign of dehydration and needs medical attention.
Signs of Low Supply
Baby is fussy or unsettled after feeds
Fewer wet diapers or long stretches without bowel movements
Breasts feel consistently soft with no fullness
Baby isn’t gaining enough weight
Signs of Oversupply
Constant engorgement and leaking
Strong let-down causing the baby to cough or pull off
Recurrent clogged ducts or mastitis
Tips to Maintain or Boost Milk Supply
1. Nurse Frequently
Offer the breast often—8–12 times per day, including at night if your baby wakes up. Frequent, effective milk removal is key to a healthy supply.
2. Ensure a Deep, Comfortable Latch
A good latch supports milk transfer and keeps your nipples healthy. If nursing feels painful or ineffective, a lactation consultant can help.
3. Use Skin-to-Skin Contact
Spend at least 20 minutes skin-to-skin daily. It helps regulate your baby’s feeding cues and encourages milk production.
4. Prioritize Nutrition and Hydration
Eat balanced, protein-rich meals and drink plenty of fluids. Some moms find foods like oats or almonds supportive, but always consult your provider before trying supplements.
5. Minimize Stress
Stress can impact let-down. Rest when you can, accept help, and create a calm environment during feeds.
6. Seek Professional Support
If you’re concerned, an IBCLC (International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant) can help you troubleshoot, assess feedings, and give personalized guidance.
Summary Table
Scenario | Signs | What to Do |
Adequate Supply | Steady weight gain, wet diapers, satisfied baby | Keep up with regular feeds and rest |
Low Supply | Fewer wet diapers, fussiness, and slow weight gain | Increase feeding/pumping frequency, use hand expression, and consult with a lactation consultant |
Oversupply | Engorgement, leaking, strong let-down | Try block feeding, express only for comfort, seek professional support |
Breastfeeding is a journey, not a one-size-fits-all experience. Your supply will naturally adjust to your baby’s needs over time. By responding to your baby’s cues, nursing frequently, and taking care of yourself, you’re giving your little one exactly what they need to grow and thrive.
Need extra support? At Virtual Breastfeeding, we offer:
IBCLC lactation support within 24–48 hours: Same-week appointments available.
Virtual or in-home support: Get help wherever you feel most comfortable.
Insurance-friendly: Most major plans are accepted to keep care affordable.
Seattle-based care: Local support from providers who understand parenting in this city.
Judgment-free guidance: Support for any feeding goal, every type of family.
Flexible scheduling: Designed for working parents and busy family life.
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