Relactation is the process of re-establishing a milk supply after a period of cessation, and the answer to whether it is possible is yes. Restarting milk production requires a significant and consistent commitment to stimulating the breasts. This process is achievable, whether you stopped weeks or months ago, though the speed and ultimate volume of milk produced depend on several factors. The body’s ability to produce milk is designed to be responsive, meaning that with the correct and frequent signals, the mechanisms for lactation can be reactivated.
The Biological Mechanism of Supply Restoration
When milk production has stopped, the specialized milk-making cells inside the breast, called alveoli, decrease their activity. The receptors on these cells, which respond to the hormone prolactin, down-regulate, reducing the body’s capacity to synthesize milk.
Frequent and effective emptying of the breast is the primary signal that tells the body to reverse this process and increase its milk-making capacity. This stimulation triggers the pituitary gland to release prolactin, the hormone responsible for milk synthesis. Consistent, high-frequency stimulation works to rebuild the number of prolactin receptors in the breast tissue, thus re-sensitizing the body to the milk-making signal.
The second hormone involved is oxytocin, which facilitates the milk ejection reflex, often called the let-down. Nipple stimulation sends signals to the hypothalamus in the brain, prompting the release of oxytocin, which causes the tiny muscles around the milk ducts to contract. This contraction pushes milk forward, allowing it to be removed, which is itself a signal for the body to make more milk.
Essential Techniques for Stimulating Milk Production
A high level of breast stimulation is required to maximize the release of prolactin and rebuild supply. It is generally recommended to aim for 8 to 12 effective stimulation sessions within a 24-hour period, ideally every two to three hours during the day and at least once at night. Nighttime stimulation is particularly beneficial because prolactin levels naturally peak while sleeping.
Using a high-quality, double electric breast pump is typically the most effective method when an infant is not yet latching or is not an efficient feeder. Pumping both breasts simultaneously saves time and has been shown to result in higher prolactin levels and a greater volume of milk removal than single-sided pumping. Each pumping session should last about 10 to 15 minutes per side, or a total of 20 to 30 minutes if double pumping.
To improve milk removal and increase the hormonal signals, incorporate hands-on pumping techniques during each session. This involves massaging the breasts and performing breast compressions before and during pumping to help drain the milk ducts more completely. Another beneficial technique is power pumping, which mimics an infant’s cluster feeding by alternating between pumping and short rest periods over an hour once a day. Skin-to-skin contact with the infant, even without a successful latch, is also a powerful tool as it promotes the release of oxytocin and can encourage the infant to seek the breast.
Managing Expectations and Timeline
Relactation demands patience, as significant results can take several weeks or months. While the first drops may appear within a few days, a noticeable increase in volume typically requires at least two weeks of consistent effort. For many, it can take about a month to establish a modest supply, and the time required often correlates with how long it has been since milk production stopped.
It is helpful to set a goal that is not necessarily exclusive breastfeeding, as achieving a full supply is not always possible. Producing a supplemental supply, where breast milk is offered alongside formula, still provides significant health benefits to the infant. Success variables include the infant’s age (babies under three months often relatch easiest) and whether a full supply was established before stopping.
Some may consider using galactagogues, which are substances that can help stimulate milk production. Herbal options, such as fenugreek or blessed thistle, are available, though scientific evidence confirming their efficacy is limited. Prescription medications, such as Domperidone, may be recommended by a healthcare provider because they work by blocking dopamine receptors, which in turn increases prolactin secretion. Consulting with an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) or a medical professional is highly recommended to create a personalized relactation plan and safely discuss the use of any medication or supplement.