Sudden Drop in Milk Supply? 10 Tips to Bring It Back

Jennifer Lezak
2026-03-19T15:33:44-04:00

You’ve finally found your rhythm with breastfeeding. Your baby is nursing well, gaining weight, and sleeping in longer stretches. Then it happens: a sudden drop in milk supply. It’s unexpected, and it can feel incredibly stressful.

If you’re noticing your breast milk supply decreasing and wondering how to get your milk supply back, you’re not alone. The good news is that in many cases, you can bring your milk supply back often within just a few days. Whether caused by stress, illness, hormonal shifts, or reduced feedings, a breast milk supply drop is something many nursing parents experience. With the right strategies and support, it’s possible to boost your milk supply naturally and confidently.

Why Your Milk Supply Might Drop

There are many reasons for a reduction in breast milk supply, including:

Returning to work and separation from baby

Missed or shortened nursing or pumping sessions

Stress, lack of sleep, or dehydration

Illness or certain medication

Baby sleeping longer stretches at night

Introduction of formula or solid foods

The return of your menstrual cycle

Remember: your body responds to demand. The less stimulation your breasts receive, the less milk they produce. The good news? You can reset this signal, and the tips below will help.

How to Bring Milk Supply Back Up: 10 Effective Tips

1. Nurse More Frequently

Breastfeeding works on a supply and demand system. If your milk supply is decreasing, increasing nursing frequency is the first way to try. Offer the breast every two hours during the day, even if your baby isn’t signaling hunger. Breast compressions during feeding can help increase milk transfer and encourage longer nursing sessions. Many parents also find that breastfeeding in a baby carrier makes it easier to nurse more often as your responsive to baby’s cues.

2. Pump Often (Even If Nothing Comes Out)

If your baby isn't feeding as often or effectively, pumping can help stimulate production. Aim to pump 8-12 times per day.

Use a double electric breast pump if possible

Pump after every nursing session

Keep sessions at 10-15 minutes per breast

Even if little milk is expressed at first, pumping still signals your body to increase production. If you’re unsure about your pump setup, a lactation consultant can help ensure correct flange size and settings. Organization's like La Leche League and the Lactation Network are also excellent resources.

3. Try Power Pumping

Power pumping mimics cluster feeding and can help increase milk supply after a drop. This technique involves pumping in short bursts to stimulate additional production.

How to power pump:

Pump for 20 minutes

Rest for 10 minutes

Pump 10 minutes

Rest 10 minutes

Pump 10 minutes again

Do this once or twice daily for 3-5 days.

4. Do a 24 Hour Nurse In

A “nurse-in” means spending 24 hours skin-to-skin with your baby and nursing on demand. Rest, hydrate, and allow your baby to feed as often as they want.

This approach can:

Increase prolactin and oxytocin (milk making hormones)

Improve latch and milk transfer

Help reconnect after periods of separation

5. Eat Lactation Boosting Foods

Some foods may help support milk production naturally. Try incorporating:

Oats: rich in iron

Brewer’s yeast: supports energy and lactation

Flaxseed: contains phytoestrogens

Fennel, garlic, and ginger: traditional galactagogues

Almonds and sesame seeds: healthy fats and calcium

Make it fun! Bake lactation cookies or smoothies to combine several ingredients.

6. Drink More Water Than You Think You Need

Dehydration can contribute to a breast milk supply drop. A simple habit to stay hydrated: drink a glass of water every time you nurse or pump.

Coconut water or electrolyte drinks can be helpful if you’re feeling run down, ill, or exposed to heat.

7. Ditch the Pacifier Temporarily

Each time your baby uses a pacifier instead of nursing, that’s a missed opportunity to stimulate milk production. For a few days, consider offering the breast for comfort instead of a pacifier whenever possible.

8. Use Warm Compresses & Breast Massage

Before nursing or pumping, apply a warm compress for about five minutes. Follow with gentle massage in circular motions from the chest toward the nipple.

This can help:

Encourage letdown

Soften the breast for a better latch

Stimulate milk flow and duct drainage

️Warm showers can also provide comfort and relief during this time.

9. Consider Herbal Support (With Professional Guidance)

Some parents find galactagogues helpful, including:

Fenugreek

Blessed thistle

Moringa

Goat’s rue

Alfalfa

Always consult your OB, midwife, or lactation consultant before starting supplements, especially if you have thyroid, hormonal, or autoimmune conditions.

10. Take Care of Your Emotional Health

Stress plays a powerful role in milk production. High cortisol levels can suppress oxytocin, which is essential for letdown. Prioritize rest, accept help, and give yourself permission to slow down.

Throughout the history of breastfeeding, fluctuations in milk supply have been normal, especially during times of stress, illness, or major routine changes. You are not failing, and your milk supply can return.

FAQ: More Questions About Milk Supply

How quickly can I bring my milk supply back up?

Many parents see improvements within 3-5 days of consistent nursing or pumping, though timelines vary.

What are signs my milk supply is increasing again?

Increased output when pumping

Baby seems more satisfied after feeds

Breasts feel fuller or tingle between feedings

Should I supplement with formula during a milk supply dip?

If recommended by your pediatrician, yes, but always breastfeed or pump first to maintain stimulation and signal your body to produce more milk.

Can my period cause a sudden drop in milk supply?

Yes. This is common. Some parents find calcium and magnesium supplements helpful during the luteal phase, but speak with your midwife or OBGYN first.

How to Bring Milk Supply Back Up With Confidence

Breastfeeding isn’t linear. It comes with highs and lows, cluster feeds, growth spurts, and moments of doubt. A sudden drop in milk supply can feel alarming, but it doesn’t mean your breastfeeding journey is over.

With the right support, tools, and mindset, you can bring your milk supply back up and continue nursing for as long as it feels right for you and your baby.