How to Use Coconut Oil to Increase Milk Supply

Posted on March 03, 2026

How to Use Coconut Oil for Milk Supply and Nipple Care

Introduction
Understanding the Role of Fats in Lactation
Can Coconut Oil Actually Increase Milk Volume?
Specific Ways to Incorporate Coconut Oil into Your Diet
Using Coconut Oil as a Pumping Lubricant
Nipple Care and Skin Health
The Importance of Lauric and Capric Acid
Selecting the Best Coconut Oil for Your Journey
Complementing Coconut Oil with Other Lactation Support
The "Supply and Demand" Foundation
Fun Fact: Breastfeeding in Public
How to Make Homemade Lactation Treats
Potential Side Effects and Considerations
Conclusion
FAQ

Introduction

Watching the ounces tick up in a pump bottle or wondering if your baby is satisfied after a nursing session can be an emotional rollercoaster. We know that the pressure to maintain a robust milk supply is real, and it often leads parents to look for natural solutions. Coconut oil has emerged as a popular topic in breastfeeding circles, with many claiming it is a must-have for any nursing kitchen. At Milky Mama, we are dedicated to providing you with evidence-based information to help you navigate these choices with confidence.

In this article, we will explore the relationship between coconut oil and lactation. We will look at whether it truly increases the volume of your milk or if its benefits lie elsewhere, such as in the quality and fat content of your liquid gold. We will also provide practical, step-by-step instructions on how to use it both in your diet and as a topical support tool. Our goal is to help you understand how this versatile oil can fit into your breastfeeding journey.

Every drop counts, and your well-being matters just as much as your milk output. While there is no single "magic" food that works for everyone, coconut oil offers several unique properties that may support your breastfeeding goals. Let’s dive into the science and the "how-to" of using coconut oil for lactation.

Understanding the Role of Fats in Lactation

To understand how coconut oil might help, we first need to look at what makes up breast milk. Breast milk is a complex fluid that changes constantly to meet your baby's needs. One of the most critical components is fat. The fat in your milk provides the concentrated calories your baby needs for brain development, weight gain, and nervous system growth.

The types of fat you eat can actually influence the types of fat found in your milk. While your body is excellent at pulling stored nutrients to create milk, your current diet plays a role in the fatty acid profile of what you produce. Coconut oil is unique because it is composed mostly of medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs). These fats are easily digested and provide a quick source of energy for both you and your baby.

What is a Galactagogue?

When searching for ways to boost supply, you will likely see the word "galactagogue." A galactagogue is a substance—typically a food, herb, or medication—that is believed to help increase milk production. Some common examples include oats, brewer’s yeast, and certain herbs.

Whether coconut oil is a true galactagogue is a subject of debate among lactation professionals. While it may not directly trigger your body to produce a higher volume of milk in the same way that frequent nursing does, many parents find it to be a supportive addition to a lactation-friendly diet. It helps by ensuring the parent has enough high-quality fats to maintain the energy levels required for milk synthesis.

For additional options, explore Milky Mama’s lactation snacks and treats.

Can Coconut Oil Actually Increase Milk Volume?

The short answer is that there is no clinical evidence proving coconut oil will specifically increase the number of ounces you pump or feed. However, that does not mean it isn't useful. In lactation, "supply" isn't just about the quantity; it is also about the quality.

Some parents report an "increase" in supply because their babies seem more satisfied and stay full longer after a feed. This is often because the fat content of the milk has increased. When milk is higher in fat, it is more satiating for the baby. This can lead to a more predictable feeding schedule and a baby who is getting the calories they need to grow.

Key Takeaway: While coconut oil may not increase the total volume of milk produced, it can improve the fatty acid profile of your milk, making it more nourishing and calorie-dense for your baby.

For more information on this topic, read Milky Mama’s guide to whether coconut oil increases breast milk supply.

The Science of Lauric Acid

One of the most important components of coconut oil is lauric acid. This is a medium-chain fatty acid that is also naturally found in human breast milk. Lauric acid has powerful antimicrobial properties. This means it can help protect your baby’s developing immune system against viruses, bacteria, and fungi.

Studies have shown that when a breastfeeding parent consumes coconut oil or coconut products, the levels of lauric acid and capric acid in their breast milk increase significantly. This boost in antimicrobial protection is a wonderful benefit, even if the total ounce count on your pump stays the same.

Specific Ways to Incorporate Coconut Oil into Your Diet

If you want to try using coconut oil to support your lactation, the easiest way is through your diet. You do not need to eat it by the spoonful—though some parents do! There are many ways to make it a natural part of your daily routine.

Cooking and Baking

Coconut oil is a stable oil, meaning it can handle heat well. This makes it an excellent choice for cooking and baking.

Swap your butter: Use coconut oil instead of butter or vegetable oil when sautéing vegetables or frying eggs.
Upgrade your baking: Many lactation treat recipes call for butter or oil. Replacing them with coconut oil can add those beneficial MCFAs to your snacks.
Roasted veggies: Toss sweet potatoes or carrots in melted coconut oil before roasting them in the oven for a healthy, fat-rich side dish.

Beverages and Smoothies

Adding healthy fats to your drinks can help keep your energy levels stable throughout the day.

Coffee or tea: Some parents enjoy adding a teaspoon of coconut oil to their morning coffee or tea. If you blend it, it creates a creamy, frothy texture similar to a latte.
Morning smoothies: Add a tablespoon of coconut oil to your fruit and veggie smoothies. It helps you absorb fat-soluble vitamins (like A, D, E, and K) from your produce.
Warm milk: Stir a little coconut oil into a cup of warm plant-based or dairy milk with a dash of cinnamon before bed.

If hydration is part of your routine, Pumpin’ Punch™ can be another convenient drink option.

Quick Snacks and "Energy Bites"

When you are breastfeeding, you need quick, one-handed snacks. You can make "energy bites" by mixing oats, nut butter, honey, and melted coconut oil. Roll them into balls and keep them in the fridge. These are great for middle-of-the-night hunger pangs.

Action Plan for Dietary Use:

Start small: Begin with 1–2 teaspoons a day to see how your digestion handles the extra oil.
Choose quality: Look for "Extra Virgin" or "Cold Pressed" options.
Be consistent: Like most nutritional changes, it may take a few days to notice a difference in how you feel or how satisfied your baby is.

Using Coconut Oil as a Pumping Lubricant

If you use a breast pump, you know that friction can be a major source of discomfort. If the pump flange (the plastic shield that touches your breast) rubs against your skin, it can cause soreness, swelling, and even skin breakdown. This discomfort can inhibit your let-down reflex, which is the process where your body releases milk from the ducts.

Coconut oil makes an excellent, natural, and food-safe lubricant for pumping.

For more pumping guidance, Milky Mama offers professional breastfeeding and lactation help.

How to Apply Coconut Oil to Your Flanges:

Wash your hands: Always start with clean hands before touching your pump parts or breasts.
Scoop a small amount: You only need a pea-sized amount of coconut oil.
Apply to the flange tunnel: Rub the oil around the inside of the "tunnel" part of the flange where your nipple moves back and forth.
Apply to your skin: You can also rub a tiny bit directly on your nipple and areola.
Pump as usual: The oil will reduce friction, allowing your nipple to move more freely and comfortably.

This simple trick can make pumping much more pleasant. When you are comfortable and relaxed, your body is more likely to release milk efficiently, which can lead to better output over time.

Nipple Care and Skin Health

Sore, cracked nipples are one of the most common reasons parents stop breastfeeding earlier than they intended. While a proper latch is the most important factor in preventing nipple pain, coconut oil can help soothe and protect the skin.

Soothing Soreness

Coconut oil is naturally moisturizing and has antibacterial and antifungal properties. If you have minor irritation, applying a small amount of coconut oil after a feeding can provide a protective barrier. Because it is a food product, it is generally safe for your baby to ingest in small amounts, so you typically do not need to wash it off before the next feed.

Managing Thrush

Thrush is a common yeast infection that can affect both the parent's nipples and the baby's mouth. Because coconut oil contains caprylic acid and lauric acid, both of which have antifungal properties, some lactation consultants suggest using it as a supportive measure.

While coconut oil is not a replacement for medical treatment if you have a severe case of thrush, it can help soothe the "burning" sensation often associated with the infection. Always consult with your healthcare provider if you suspect you or your baby have thrush.

For additional education, read this guide about increasing milk supply after thrush.

The Importance of Lauric and Capric Acid

We mentioned lauric acid earlier, but it is worth exploring why these specific fats are so vital for your baby. Breastfeeding is about more than just calories; it is about building a foundation for lifelong health.

Lauric acid and capric acid are "medium-chain" fats. Unlike long-chain fats, these are sent directly to the liver, where they are used immediately for energy. For a growing newborn, this is high-octane fuel. Furthermore, these acids are converted into compounds like monolaurin in the body. Monolaurin is known to dissolve the lipid (fatty) coating of certain viruses and bacteria, making it easier for the baby's immune system to destroy them.

By including coconut oil in your diet, you are essentially "fortifying" your milk with these protective substances. It is a simple way to use nutrition to support your baby’s wellness.

Selecting the Best Coconut Oil for Your Journey

Not all coconut oils are created equal. When you go to the grocery store, the options can be overwhelming. To get the most benefit for lactation and skin care, you want to choose the right type.

Unrefined (Virgin) Coconut Oil

This is usually the best choice for breastfeeding parents. It is made from fresh coconut meat and is processed using very little heat. This preserves the natural nutrients and the light coconut scent and flavor. It contains the highest levels of those beneficial medium-chain fatty acids.

Refined Coconut Oil

Refined oil is made from dried coconut meat. It is processed at higher temperatures and often filtered to remove the coconut smell and taste. While it still contains healthy fats, some of the more delicate nutrients may be lost during processing. However, if you dislike the taste of coconut, refined oil is a good option for cooking.

Fractionated Coconut Oil

This is coconut oil that has been processed to remain liquid at room temperature. Most of the lauric acid is removed during this process. While it is great as a "carrier oil" for skincare, it is not the best choice for dietary use if you are looking to support milk quality.

Action List for Buying Coconut Oil:

Look for the word "Virgin" or "Extra Virgin."

Check for "Cold-pressed" on the label.

Choose organic when possible to avoid pesticide residue.

Ensure it is in a BPA-free container or a glass jar.

Complementing Coconut Oil with Other Lactation Support

While coconut oil is a fantastic tool, it works best when part of a broader approach to lactation. If you are concerned about your volume, you may want to look into targeted herbal support.

At Milky Mama, we offer a range of lactation supplements designed to support different lactation needs. For example, our Pumping Queen™ capsules are formulated with herbs that many parents find helpful for boosting output. If you prefer a liquid supplement, Lady Leche™ is a popular choice.

These supplements are often used alongside a nutrient-dense diet that includes healthy fats like coconut oil. When you combine good nutrition, proper hydration, and evidence-based herbal support, you create an environment where your body can thrive.

This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult with your healthcare provider for medical advice.

The "Supply and Demand" Foundation

No amount of coconut oil can replace the fundamental rule of breastfeeding: supply and demand. Your body produces milk based on how much and how often milk is removed.

To maximize the benefits of your diet, ensure you are:

Nursing or pumping frequently: Aim for at least 8 to 12 sessions in a 24-hour period in the early weeks.
Checking the latch: A deep latch ensures the baby is removing milk effectively, which tells your body to make more.
Staying hydrated: While water is essential, many parents enjoy drinks like our Pumpin’ Punch™ or Milky Melon™ to stay hydrated with the added benefit of lactation-supporting ingredients.
Practicing skin-to-skin: Spending time chest-to-chest with your baby releases oxytocin, the hormone responsible for the let-down reflex.

If you are struggling with a significant supply drop, it is always a good idea to reach out to a certified lactation consultant (IBCLC). They can help you identify the root cause and create a plan that might include dietary changes, pumping adjustments, or supplements.

Fun Fact: Breastfeeding in Public

While you are focusing on nutrition and supply, don't let the logistics of being out and about stress you out. Fun fact: breastfeeding in public—covered or uncovered—is legal in all 50 states. Whether you are at the park or a grocery store, you have the right to feed your baby whenever they are hungry. Feeling comfortable and confident in public can reduce your stress levels, which in turn supports a healthy let-down.

How to Make Homemade Lactation Treats

One of the most enjoyable ways to use coconut oil is by making your own lactation treats. This allows you to control the ingredients and ensure you are getting a good balance of galactagogues.

DIY Coconut Lactation Bites

You can mix the following ingredients in a large bowl:

2 cups of rolled oats (a known galactagogue)
1/2 cup of ground flaxseed
1/4 cup of brewer's yeast
1/2 cup of melted virgin coconut oil
1/2 cup of almond butter or peanut butter
1/3 cup of honey or maple syrup
A handful of dark chocolate chips

Mix everything together, chill the mixture for 30 minutes, and then roll into bite-sized balls. These treats provide the oats and yeast for volume support, while the coconut oil and flaxseed provide the healthy fats to enrich your milk.

If you don't have time to bake, our Emergency Brownies are one of our most-loved lactation treats. They are packed with oats, brewer's yeast, and flaxseed and are a convenient way to get those supply-supporting nutrients without the kitchen cleanup.

Potential Side Effects and Considerations

While coconut oil is generally considered safe, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Digestive changes: Because coconut oil is a pure fat, consuming large amounts too quickly can cause loose stools or stomach upset for some people. Start with small amounts and increase slowly.
Allergies: Although rare, some people are allergic to coconut. If you or your baby have a known tree nut allergy, check with your doctor before using coconut products.
Calories: Coconut oil is calorie-dense. While breastfeeding parents need extra calories, it is best to use it as a replacement for other fats rather than just adding it on top of everything else, unless you are struggling to maintain your weight.

Conclusion

Coconut oil is a versatile, natural, and affordable tool for any breastfeeding parent. While it may not be a "miracle" that doubles your milk volume overnight, its ability to improve the quality of your milk and provide essential antimicrobial protection for your baby is invaluable. Whether you use it as a cooking staple, a soothing nipple balm, or a lubricant for your breast pump, it can make your lactation journey more comfortable and nourishing.

Improve Milk Quality: Coconut oil increases the healthy fat and lauric acid content of your milk.
Increase Comfort: Use it as a natural lubricant for pumping flanges and to soothe sore nipples.
Easy Integration: Swap out your usual cooking oils for virgin coconut oil to get a daily dose of medium-chain fatty acids.

Breasts were literally created to feed human babies, but that doesn't mean the process is always easy. We are here to support you every step of the way with the products and education you need to reach your goals. You're doing an amazing job, and we are honored to be a part of your story.

FAQ

Does coconut oil increase the amount of breast milk I produce?

There is currently no scientific evidence that coconut oil increases the volume of milk produced. However, it can increase the fat content and caloric density of your milk, which may help your baby stay full and satisfied for longer periods.

Can I use coconut oil on my nipples if I have a yeast infection?

Coconut oil has natural antifungal properties due to its lauric and caprylic acid content, which may help soothe the symptoms of thrush. However, it should be used as a supportive measure alongside medical treatment prescribed by your healthcare provider or a lactation consultant.

Is it safe for my baby to swallow coconut oil from my skin?

Yes, virgin coconut oil is a food-grade product and is generally considered safe for babies to ingest in the small amounts they might get while nursing. You do not typically need to wash it off your nipples before a feeding unless you have applied a very thick layer.

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