Breastfeeding Tips That Helped Me Boost My Supply
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Before I share anything, let me just say this: Your body is doing exactly what it’s supposed to do for YOUR baby. Whether you’re nursing, pumping, combo feeding, or formula feeding—your journey is valid. In a world where social media often shows highlight reels of perfectly stocked freezers and effortless feedings, it’s easy to feel like you’re not doing enough. But the truth? Every mom and baby duo is different. So let’s start by giving ourselves a little grace.
I want to share my story—not because I figured it all out (spoiler: I haven’t), but because I went from barely producing 2 ounces total to now pumping over 10 ounces per session. It took trial and error, a whole lot of patience, and some tears too. But if you’re in the thick of it, I hope this post gives you encouragement and practical tools to support your journey.
These days, I’m about 90% pumping and bottle feeding, and 10% breastfeeding directly. That’s just what works best for us right now. My baby still nurses occasionally—usually for comfort or before naps and bedtime—but most of the time I pump and bottle feed so I can track his intake and make sure he’s getting enough. In the beginning, I had to combo feed with formula because I wasn’t producing enough breast milk, and that was the best choice for my baby at the time. I’m so thankful that after a lot of consistency and support, I now produce enough breast milk to exclusively feed him—but I still keep formula on hand, just in case we ever need it. There’s no shame in doing what works, and every feeding journey is uniquely beautiful.
A Few Facts About Breastfeeding
Breast milk is produced on a supply and demand basis. The more frequently you remove milk (by nursing or pumping), the more milk your body will be signaled to make. This is due to a hormone called prolactin, which rises after each milk removal. I found good results in latching my son after pumping at least one pump session a day to simulate cluster feeding.
Colostrum, the first milk you produce after birth, is small in quantity but incredibly rich in nutrients and antibodies. Your milk will transition to mature milk around day 3–5 postpartum.
Hydration, nutrition, rest, and stress management all play a role in milk production—but none of them alone are a magic fix. It’s about consistency over time.
It’s normal for your output to vary throughout the day. Most moms produce more milk in the morning and less in the late afternoon and evening.
The Pumps I Use and Recommend
I currently rotate between two pumps, and I highly recommend having more than one. It’s a game-changer for flexibility and having a backup.
1. Spectra S1 (Hospital Grade Pump)
This one was covered by my insurance—check your plan because many cover pumps and replacement parts every 30 days (that includes flanges, tubing, milk bags, and more!).
I started with the Spectra S1 and still use it regularly. If you can, go for the S1 model—it’s rechargeable and gives you freedom to move around without being stuck to the wall.
I use my Momcozy even more than the Spectra now. It’s hands-free, quiet, and lets me multitask (hello, mom life). This one is a lifesaver for busy days or when you just want to pump without being tethered.
Yes—manual pumps still have a place! I love this for quick sessions or when I’m on the go. It’s also great to keep in your diaper bag or car.
What Helped Me Boost My Supply
I started out barely making enough to feed my baby, and now I consistently pump over 10 ounces per session. Here’s what helped me the most:
Hydration
Milk is 88% water—so staying hydrated is key. I aim for about a gallon of fluids a day. What made the biggest difference for me was adding Liquid I.V. to half of what I drink. It helps your body absorb water more efficiently and supports hydration at a cellular level.
Oatmeal Energy Balls
Oats are a commonly recommended galactagogue (a substance believed to help increase milk supply), and I make these energy balls with added brewer’s yeast, flaxseed, and sunflower seeds—all believed to support lactation.
Oatmeal Cream Pies
Not something I usually eat, but I SWEAR by them. They’re high in carbs and contain oats, which may help support energy levels and milk production.
Protein = Fuel
Producing milk burns around 500 extra calories per day—which means your body needs more protein and nutrients to keep up. I mix it up with:
Cheese sticks
Fairlife protein shakes (the chocolate one is SO good)
Greek yogurt
Peanut butter
Energy balls
A Final Note to You, Mama
Breastfeeding isn’t just physical—it’s emotional, mental, and exhausting. There’s no one-size-fits-all. You’re doing a beautiful job just by showing up every day.
So whether you’re producing 2 ounces or 12, combo feeding or exclusively pumping, remember: you are providing everything your baby needs.
If this post encouraged you or gave you new ideas, share it with another mama who might need it too.