How to Increase Milk Supply When Pregnant

Posted on February 23, 2026

Introduction
Understanding Why Milk Supply Changes During Pregnancy
Is it Possible to Increase Milk Supply While Pregnant?
How to Increase Milk Supply When Pregnant Through Nutrition
Hydration Strategies for the Pregnant Nursing Parent
Using Lactation Support Products Safely
Managing Nipple Sensitivity and Discomfort
The Role of Rest and Stress Management
When Your Child is Under One Year Old
Action Steps for Supporting Your Supply
Preparing for Tandem Nursing
Managing Expectations and "Nursing Aversion"
Seeking Professional Support
Conclusion
FAQ

Introduction

Finding out you are expecting a new baby while still nursing your older child is a beautiful, albeit busy, milestone. It is a time filled with excitement, but it also brings up a unique set of questions about your body’s ability to keep up. Many parents worry about whether they can maintain their current nursing relationship while nourishing a growing baby in the womb. At Milky Mama, we believe that with the right information and support, you can navigate this transition feeling empowered and prepared.

While it is common to notice changes in your output during this time, there are several ways to support your body. In this article, we will explore why supply changes during pregnancy, how to optimize your nutrition, and practical steps to maintain your nursing bond. Our goal is to help you understand the physiological shifts happening within you while providing actionable tips to support your milk supply throughout your pregnancy.

Understanding Why Milk Supply Changes During Pregnancy

When you become pregnant, your body undergoes a massive hormonal shift to support the new life growing inside you. These hormones, specifically estrogen and progesterone, play a primary role in how your body produces milk. For many parents, a dip in supply is one of the first signs of pregnancy, often occurring before they even take a test.

During the first and second trimesters, the high levels of progesterone required to maintain a healthy pregnancy can actually inhibit milk production. This is a natural physiological process. Unlike the typical "supply and demand" rules of breastfeeding, where more frequent nursing leads to more milk, pregnancy hormones can sometimes override these signals.

Around the middle of your pregnancy, usually between weeks 16 and 22, your milk will naturally begin to transition back into colostrum. Colostrum is the thick, nutrient-dense "liquid gold" that is specifically designed to nourish a newborn in their first days of life. It is packed with antibodies and proteins. While this change is amazing for your upcoming arrival, it can cause the volume of your milk to decrease and the taste to become slightly saltier. Your older child may notice this change and either continue nursing happily or begin to self-wean.

Is it Possible to Increase Milk Supply While Pregnant?

This is the question on every nursing and pregnant parent's mind. The short answer is that while you can certainly take steps to support and maximize what you have, you may not be able to "force" a high supply against the tide of pregnancy hormones.

In a typical breastfeeding journey, we recommend a "pump-athon" or power pumping to signal the body to make more milk. However, when you are pregnant, the hormonal "brakes" are often stronger than the "gas pedal" of frequent milk removal. This doesn't mean you should give up if your goal is to continue nursing. It simply means that your focus should shift from hitting specific ounce targets to maintaining comfort, nutrition, and the nursing bond.

Every body reacts differently to pregnancy. Some parents find their supply stays relatively stable until the third trimester, while others see a significant drop almost immediately. Both experiences are normal. If your child is under a year old and your supply drops significantly, you should work closely with your pediatrician to ensure they are getting enough nutrition from age-appropriate supplements or formula.

How to Increase Milk Supply When Pregnant Through Nutrition

One of the most effective ways to support your milk production while pregnant is to ensure you are fueling your body correctly. You are essentially doing three jobs at once: maintaining your own health, growing a new human, and producing milk for another. This requires a significant amount of energy.

Increasing Your Caloric Intake

During pregnancy, your caloric needs increase to support fetal growth. When you add breastfeeding to the mix, those needs go up even further. On average, a nursing parent may need an additional 500 calories per day, while a pregnant parent needs about 300 to 450 extra calories depending on the trimester.

When you are doing both, you may need to aim for roughly 800 extra calories a day compared to your pre-pregnancy needs. It is important to listen to your body’s hunger cues. If you feel ravenous, it is because your body is working overtime. Focus on nutrient-dense snacks like nuts, Greek yogurt, avocado, and whole grains to keep your energy levels stable.

The Power of Protein and Healthy Fats

Protein is the building block of life and is essential for both fetal development and milk production. Aim to include a high-quality protein source at every meal. Lean meats, eggs, beans, lentils, and tofu are all excellent choices.

Healthy fats are also vital. Your brain and your baby's developing brain rely on Omega-3 fatty acids. These fats also help keep your milk satisfying for your nursing child. Incorporating salmon (within low-mercury guidelines), chia seeds, and walnuts can provide a boost to your overall nutritional profile.

Essential Vitamins and Minerals

Iron and calcium are two minerals that often get depleted when you are breastfeeding and pregnant simultaneously. Your body will prioritize the needs of the developing fetus first, which can leave you feeling depleted.

Iron: Needed to prevent anemia and maintain energy levels.
Calcium: Vital for bone health for you and both of your children.
DHA: Supports brain and eye development.

Key Takeaway: You cannot pour from an empty cup. Prioritizing your own nutrition is not selfish; it is the foundation of a healthy pregnancy and a continued breastfeeding relationship.

Hydration Strategies for the Pregnant Nursing Parent

Staying hydrated is always important for milk supply, but during pregnancy, your blood volume increases significantly. This means your body needs even more water than usual just to function. When you add the fluid requirements of lactation, hydration becomes a full-time job.

Many parents find it difficult to drink enough plain water, especially if they are struggling with morning sickness. If water feels "heavy" or unappealing, try adding electrolytes. Our lactation drink mixes are popular options because they provide hydration along with supportive ingredients. They are a delicious way to ensure you are getting the fluids you need without the boredom of plain water.

Try to keep a water bottle with you at all times. A good rule of thumb is to drink a glass of water every time you sit down to nurse or pump. If you notice your urine is dark yellow, it is a clear sign that you need to increase your fluid intake.

Using Lactation Support Products Safely

Many parents look to herbal supplements to help bridge the gap when their supply dips. When you are pregnant, you must be extra cautious about what herbs you ingest. Some traditional lactation herbs are not recommended during pregnancy because they can cause uterine contractions or interfere with pregnancy hormones.

We specifically formulate our products to be high-quality and effective. For many of our pregnant customers, our Emergency Lactation Brownies are a favorite. They are made with oats, brewer's yeast, and flaxseed—ingredients that are generally considered safe and nourishing during pregnancy. These treats provide a calorie boost and galactagogues (substances that may help increase milk supply) in a delicious, easy-to-eat format.

If you are considering an herbal supplement, it is essential to consult with your healthcare provider first. Every pregnancy is unique, and your OB-GYN or midwife can help you determine which herbal supports are appropriate for your specific health history.

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

Managing Nipple Sensitivity and Discomfort

One of the biggest hurdles to increasing milk supply when pregnant isn't actually the milk volume—it’s the physical discomfort. Pregnancy hormones make your nipples and breasts much more sensitive. For some, the sensation of nursing can become painful or even cause "nursing aversion," a feeling of intense irritability during let-down.

If you are trying to nurse more frequently to boost supply, but it hurts, you may naturally start to avoid sessions. To help manage this:

Check the Latch: Even an older child can have a "lazy" latch. Ensure they are opening wide to protect your sensitive skin.
Use Nipple Butter: Keeping the skin moisturized can prevent cracking and soreness.
Limit Session Length: If nursing is painful, you can try "timed" sessions. Tell your toddler you will nurse for the length of a short song.
Try Silver Cups: These can protect your nipples from rubbing against clothing between sessions.

By managing the discomfort, you are more likely to continue the frequent milk removal necessary to maintain your supply. If you need extra help with latch, pumping, or soreness, our Certified Lactation Consultant Breastfeeding Help page is a good next step.

The Role of Rest and Stress Management

It sounds like a cliché to tell a parent to "rest," but when you are pregnant and breastfeeding, rest is a biological necessity. High levels of stress and exhaustion can trigger the release of cortisol, which is known to negatively impact the let-down reflex (the process of milk releasing from the breasts).

If you are pushing yourself too hard to maintain a high milk supply, the resulting stress might actually work against you. Your body needs to feel safe and relaxed to release milk effectively. Try to find small pockets of time for yourself. Whether it is a ten-minute nap while your child is resting or a warm bath after they go to bed, these moments of relaxation help your nervous system stay in a state that supports lactation. For more guidance on breastfeeding while pregnant, you may also find our breastfeeding through pregnancy guide helpful.

When Your Child is Under One Year Old

If you become pregnant while your first baby is still very young and relying primarily on breast milk for their nutrition, a supply drop can be more concerning. In this situation, the priority is ensuring the baby's growth and hydration.

If you notice fewer wet diapers or slow weight gain, it may be necessary to supplement. This can be an emotional realization, but it is important to remember that "every drop counts." Even if you are only producing a small amount, your baby is still receiving the incredible immunological benefits of your milk.

You can try using a Supplemental Nursing System (SNS) if you want to keep the baby at the breast while they receive extra nutrition. This can help stimulate your breasts while ensuring the baby stays full.

Action Steps for Supporting Your Supply

To help you stay organized, here is a quick checklist of things you can do this week to support your milk supply while pregnant:

Increase your daily water intake by at least 32 ounces.
Add one high-protein snack to your afternoon routine.
Consult with your midwife or OB-GYN about pregnancy-safe supplements.
Prioritize one "rest block" of at least 30 minutes every day.
Monitor your child's output (wet diapers) to ensure they are staying hydrated.

Key Takeaway: Focus on what you can control. You can control your hydration, your nutrition, and your rest. You cannot control your hormones, so be kind to yourself as your body navigates these changes.

Preparing for Tandem Nursing

Many parents who want to increase their supply during pregnancy are doing so because they hope to tandem nurse—breastfeeding both the newborn and the older child. The good news is that once you deliver your baby and the placenta is expelled, your progesterone levels will drop, and your prolactin (the milk-making hormone) will soar.

For the vast majority of parents, the supply "problem" resolves itself almost instantly after birth. Your body will realize it has two children to feed and will adjust accordingly. In fact, many tandem nursing parents find they have a very robust supply because they have two children constantly "ordering" more milk.

Continuing to nurse throughout pregnancy, even if your supply is low, keeps your older child familiar with the process. This can make the transition to tandem nursing much smoother. Just remember that the newborn always gets priority for the colostrum in those first few days.

Managing Expectations and "Nursing Aversion"

It is important to have a "real talk" moment about the emotional side of this journey. Some parents find that despite their best efforts to increase supply, the physical sensation of nursing while pregnant becomes overwhelming. This is often called nursing agitation or aversion.

If you find yourself feeling angry, itchy, or desperate for the nursing session to end, please know you are not a bad parent. This is a common hormonal reaction. Sometimes, the best way to "increase" the quality of your breastfeeding relationship is to actually set more boundaries. By nursing less frequently but with a more positive mindset, you may find the journey more sustainable for the long haul.

Seeking Professional Support

Breastfeeding is natural, but it doesn't always come naturally—especially when pregnancy is involved. If you are feeling overwhelmed, reaching out to a Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) can be a game-changer. They can help you create a personalized plan to maintain your supply, check your child’s latch, and provide much-needed emotional validation.

At Milky Mama, we offer virtual consultations to help families just like yours. Having a professional look at your specific situation can give you the confidence to keep going or the permission to adjust your goals as needed. If you want a structured learning path, our Breastfeeding 101 course is another great place to start.

Conclusion

Increasing milk supply when pregnant is a unique challenge because you are working alongside powerful hormonal shifts. While you may see a natural decrease in volume as your body prepares for your new arrival, focusing on nutrition, hydration, and comfort can help you maintain your breastfeeding relationship. Remember that your body is doing an incredible thing by nourishing two children at once. Whether you continue to nurse through your entire pregnancy or find that a different path is better for your family, you are doing an amazing job. Every drop of milk and every moment of closeness counts toward your child's well-being.

Prioritize a calorie-dense, high-protein diet to support your double demand.
Keep hydration levels high with water and electrolyte-rich drinks.
Be patient with yourself—hormonal supply drops are a normal part of pregnancy.
Consult a professional if you are worried about your child's growth or your own health.

"The bond you share with your child through breastfeeding is resilient. Even when your supply changes, the love and comfort you provide remain constant."

If you need extra support during this time, consider trying some of our nourishing lactation treats or booking a consultation with one of our experts. You can also browse our lactation supplements if you are looking for more support options.

FAQ

Can I use a breast pump to increase my supply while pregnant?

While pumping can help remove milk, it may not be as effective at increasing supply during pregnancy because hormones often override the "demand" signal. Additionally, some healthcare providers advise against vigorous pumping if you are at risk for preterm labor, as nipple stimulation can release oxytocin. Always check with your doctor before starting a rigorous pumping schedule while pregnant.

Does the taste of breast milk change during pregnancy?

Yes, around the second trimester, your milk begins to transition into colostrum. This usually makes the milk taste saltier and less sweet than what your child is used to. Some children do not mind the change, while others may choose to nurse less often or wean because of the new flavor.

Is it safe to continue breastfeeding if I am having a high-risk pregnancy?

In most healthy pregnancies, breastfeeding is perfectly safe. However, if you have a history of preterm labor, are carrying multiples, or are experiencing unexplained uterine pain or bleeding, your healthcare provider may recommend weaning. It is important to have an open conversation with your midwife or OB-GYN about your specific situation.

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How to Increase Milk Supply When Pregnant

Table of Contents

Introduction

Understanding Why Milk Supply Changes During Pregnancy

Is it Possible to Increase Milk Supply While Pregnant?