Whether you're a new mom or a seasoned parenting pro, breastfeeding
often comes with its fair share of questions. Here are answers to some common queries
that mothers — new and veteran — may have.

How can I increase my milk supply?
Your milk supply is determined by the stimulation that your baby provides while
nursing. In other words, the more you breastfeed, the more milk your body produces.
So, if you seem to be producing less milk than usual, try to feed your baby more often.
You also can pump after nursing to help stimulate more milk production.
Stress, illness, and some medicines can temporarily decrease your supply. Drinking
plenty of water and eating good, nutritious food can help. But also try to take
some time for yourself each day, even if it's only for 15-30 minutes.
If your baby is younger than 6 months old and you're away from your little one for
long stretches during the day (for instance, at work), pump or hand express every
3 hours to maintain your supply. Your freshly pumped breast milk can stay at room
temperature for 6-8 hours, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When keeping it
in the refrigerator, never store it on the shelves in the door.
If the milk is not going to be used within 5 days, store it in the freezer. Pumped
breast milk can be safely stored in the freezer compartment of a refrigerator that
has a separate suction-sealed door for 3-6 months or in a deep freezer for 6-12 months.
If your milk supply still seems low and you're concerned, you may want to talk
to your doctor, your pediatrician, or a lactation consultant.
If I wait to nurse, will my milk supply increase?
Actually, no — it's the opposite. Waiting too long to nurse or pump can slowly
reduce your milk supply. The more you delay nursing or pumping, the less
milk your body will produce because the overfilled breast sends the signal that you
must need less milk.
Once babies are back to their birth weight, they can sleep for longer stretches
at night and will gradually lengthen the time between nighttime feedings. Letting
your baby sleep for longer periods during the night won't hurt your breastfeeding
efforts. Your baby is able to take more during feedings, and that, in turn, will have
him or her sleeping longer between nighttime feedings. Your body will adjust to the
longer spacing.
Some moms wake during the night with full breasts and a sleeping baby. If that
happens, pump for comfort and to help your body adjust to your little one's new schedule
at night.
The interval for daytime feedings usually stays between 1-3 hours for the first
few months and then may lengthen to 4 hours or so. Cutting back on feedings during
the day can lead to a decreased milk supply over time.
If you follow your baby's cues and spread out the feedings as he or she wishes,
your milk supply should remain at what your baby needs.