It is often possible to restart breastfeeding after a period of stopping, a process known as relactation. With dedicated effort and appropriate support, many individuals can re-establish their milk supply. Whether the pause was due to initial challenges, medical reasons, or personal choice, the body’s physiological mechanisms can often be re-engaged to produce milk.
The Body’s Ability to Restart Milk Production
The ability to relactate stems from the hormonal interplay that governs milk production, a process known as lactogenesis. During pregnancy, hormones like estrogen and progesterone prepare the breasts for milk production by developing milk-making cells and ducts. After birth, the expulsion of the placenta causes a sharp drop in these hormones, allowing prolactin, the primary milk-producing hormone, to rise and initiate milk synthesis.
For relactation or induced lactation (when milk is produced without prior pregnancy), the body essentially mimics these hormonal changes. Nipple stimulation, whether from an infant’s suckling, pumping, or hand expression, signals the brain to release prolactin, which then prompts the mammary glands to produce milk. This stimulation also triggers the release of oxytocin, a hormone responsible for the milk ejection reflex, or “let-down,” which causes milk to flow from the breast. The more frequent and effective the stimulation and milk removal, the stronger the “supply and demand” signal to the body, encouraging it to produce more milk.
Methods for Successful Relactation
Successful relactation relies on consistent and frequent breast stimulation. This includes offering the breast to the baby as often as possible, ideally every one to two hours and at least 10-12 times within a 24-hour period, even if the baby is not initially getting much milk. Using a hospital-grade double electric pump can also stimulate milk production by mimicking an infant’s suckling and ensuring efficient milk removal. Hand expression and breast massage can further encourage milk flow and stimulate the breasts.
Skin-to-skin contact between the parent and baby promotes bonding, calms the baby, and can naturally boost the release of lactation hormones. Ensuring a proper latch is important for effective milk transfer and to maximize stimulation, as a shallow latch may not adequately signal the body to produce milk. Some individuals may explore galactagogues—substances that can help increase milk supply—under medical supervision. These can include certain herbal remedies like fenugreek or blessed thistle, or prescription medications such as domperidone, which work best when combined with frequent breast stimulation.
Common Challenges and Available Support
Relactation can present several challenges, including an initially low milk supply, which may necessitate supplementing with formula or donor milk until the breastmilk supply increases. Infants accustomed to bottles might resist latching due to the difference in flow rate, making patience and creative feeding techniques, like using a supplemental nursing system at the breast, important. The process can also be emotionally demanding, requiring dedication and persistence, and it is common to experience feelings of frustration or being overwhelmed.
A strong support system can improve the chances of success. Consulting with a certified lactation consultant (IBCLC) is recommended, as they can provide personalized guidance, help identify underlying issues, and offer practical strategies for increasing milk supply and encouraging latching. Support groups, such as those offered by organizations like La Leche League, provide a community where individuals can share experiences and gain valuable insights. Healthcare providers also monitor the baby’s weight gain and overall health, ensuring adequate nutrition throughout the relactation process.