It is possible to start lactating again after milk production has stopped. This process is known as relactation, which involves re-establishing a milk supply after it has ceased, whether due to planned weaning or an unexpected interruption. The body retains the physiological capacity for milk production, and consistent stimulation can reactivate the hormonal signals. Relactation allows parents to resume providing human milk to their infant.
The Physiological Basis for Restarting Lactation
The entire process of milk synthesis and release is governed by a hormonal feedback loop highly responsive to physical stimulation. The primary hormone responsible for milk production is prolactin, released from the pituitary gland following stimulation of the nipple and breast tissue. Prolactin acts on the mammary glands, signaling the milk-making cells to begin synthesizing milk components. The mechanical removal of milk drives this supply-and-demand system, keeping prolactin levels elevated.
The second hormone involved is oxytocin, responsible for the milk ejection reflex, often called the “let-down.” Oxytocin causes the muscle cells surrounding the milk-producing alveoli to contract, pushing milk through the ducts toward the nipple. When a parent attempts relactation, physical stimulation—such as with a pump—reactivates these neural pathways. This causes the pituitary gland to release prolactin and oxytocin, restarting the hormonal feedback loop that governs lactation.
Practical Steps for Stimulating Milk Supply
Re-establishing a milk supply relies on consistent and frequent milk removal, mimicking the feeding pattern of a newborn. Experts recommend stimulating the breasts a minimum of 8 to 12 times within a 24-hour period. This frequency should include at least one session during the night, as prolactin levels naturally peak between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. Keeping the breasts frequently empty provides the strongest biological message to increase supply.
A high-quality, double electric breast pump is an advantageous tool for relactation, and hospital-grade pumps are often recommended for their strong suction. Each pumping session should aim for 15 to 20 minutes on both sides, even if no milk is flowing, because the stimulation triggers the hormonal response. Pumping both breasts simultaneously is more efficient and results in higher prolactin levels. Techniques such as hands-on pumping, which involves breast massage and compression, can help maximize milk removal and further stimulate production.
To further increase the signal of demand, some parents incorporate “power pumping” once a day. This technique involves a concentrated period of pumping over a single hour, such as pumping for 20 minutes, resting for 10 minutes, pumping for 10 minutes, resting for 10 minutes, and finishing with a final 10-minute pump. This strategy mimics the cluster feeding behavior of a baby, providing intense, repeated stimulation to elevate prolactin levels. Consistency is the most important factor, and it is necessary to avoid going longer than three to four hours without stimulation in the early stages of relactation.
Medical and Herbal Aids
In some cases, external aids known as galactagogues may support the relactation process alongside mechanical stimulation. These can be prescription medications or herbal supplements. Prescription options include dopamine antagonists, such as Domperidone or Metoclopramide, which block the action of dopamine. Since dopamine inhibits prolactin release, blocking it allows prolactin levels to increase, enhancing milk production. Studies have shown that Domperidone can lead to a significant difference in milk production for some individuals.
Common herbal supports include Fenugreek and Blessed Thistle, though scientific evidence for their effectiveness is mixed. Fenugreek, a member of the pea family, is often taken in capsule form and may cause a maple syrup-like odor in sweat and urine. Blessed Thistle is often taken in combination with Fenugreek. These herbal products are not standardized and may have side effects or interact with other medications. Consult with a healthcare provider or a certified lactation consultant before beginning any medication or herbal supplement regimen.
Managing Expectations and Timelines
The process of relactation is gradual and requires a significant time commitment. While some individuals see the first drops of milk within a few days of starting frequent stimulation, it generally takes weeks or months to establish a noticeable supply. A full milk supply is not always achievable; success is often measured by a partial supply that reduces the need for formula supplementation.
It commonly takes several weeks to two months before a significant change in output is observed. If lactation stopped a longer time ago, the process may require a longer duration and more intensive intervention. Parents must be patient and understand that any amount of human milk provided is beneficial. Maintaining a realistic goal, such as partial breastfeeding, helps manage the emotional commitment required. Monitoring the infant’s weight gain with a healthcare provider is necessary to ensure the baby is receiving adequate nutrition, often requiring continued formula supplementation while the supply increases.