Can I Restart Breastfeeding?

The short answer to this question is that you likely can restart breastfeeding even after you have stopped. This process is called relactation, and it is possible to do it weeks, months, (I've even read years!) after nursing cessation. If you are a mommy who regrets weaning for whatever reason, or maybe you had no choice due to an emergent surgery or other unfortunate event, then you should definitely consider relactation. The disclaimer? Go into this process expecting it to take a lot of time and hard work! But hey, all good things are worth fighting for.

The Science Behind Relactation

To start relactating, you essentially need to tell your body that you again need breastmilk. Your job is to mimic breastfeeding just as you did with your newborn. That means stimulation!!! The stimulation would preferably come from your baby's mouth, but some babies will not be interested in latching when they know that you do not have milk at hand. If this is the case, your pump will be your next best bet. This stimulation will tell your brain that you need to make milk, and your brain will then signal and release the two essential breastfeeding hormones (prolactin and oxytocin).

• Prolactin: Responsible for milk production! It also promotes the development and growth of mammary alveoli where the milk production occurs.
• Oxytocin: Responsible for getting the milk out through the milk ducts. It causes the "let-down" reflex and helps your baby get your milk easily.

How to Start Relactating

1. Nurse or pump every 2-3 hours around the clock. (Aim for 10-12 times per day!)
2. Prioritize Skin-to-Skin time with your baby! The more the better.
3. DO NOT skip middle-of-the-night or early morning pump sessions or stimulation feedings! Harsh, but prolactin tends to peak during these hours so it is essential to demand milk from your body at these times. (Supply and demand, remember?)
4. Read my post on how to increase milk supply, as you should mimic this when trying to bring back your milk.
5. Be patient and expect the process to take time, I read that it averages about 4 weeks. It all depends on the person, how long they stopped nursing for, how long they previously breastfed, etc. If this is something you really want to do, dedicate your time and prepare yourself mentally for it prior to starting.

If you dream it, make it a reality! Happy nursing, happy pumping!