Choosing to breastfeed your baby can be a wonderful bonding experience. During a vaginal delivery, the body releases oxytocin, the hormone that triggers uterine contractions and also initiates the “let down reflex,” helping milk flow from the breasts. After a cesarean birth, this hormonal signal may be delayed or reduced, temporarily affecting early milk production. With the proper steps, lactation can still be successfully established.    

Tips to Support Milk Production After a C-Section

• Prioritize skin-to-skin contact.  
  Ask for skin-to-skin contact with your baby as soon as it’s medically safe to do so. Many parents can begin holding and even breastfeeding their baby while still in the recovery room.  Skin-to-skin helps regulate your baby’s temperature, stimulates natural feeding cues, and boosts oxytocin. 
• Use positions that protect your incision. 
  The clutch (football) hold keeps your baby’s weight off your abdomen. Don’t worry if you need assistance positioning and holding your baby. Remember, you are recovering from major abdominal surgery. 

• Feed early and often. 
  Early nipple stimulation and skin-to-skin contact help release oxytocin for the “let down reflex”, while the baby’s suckling boosts prolactin, the hormone responsible for milk production. These hormones work together to support supply and to create a calming, bonding experience for both of you. 

• Wake for feeds if needed. 
  If your baby hasn’t shown hunger cues in 2-3 hours, ask for help waking and latching them for the next feed. Newborns typically need to eat every 2-3 hours, and more frequent feedings are normal in the early days.  

Some women still experience challenges with milk supply postpartum. One supportive option is adding an herbal lactation blend, such as our proprietary formulas Let It Flow or Latch Latte. These herbal galactagogues may help increase supply within 24–72 hours. As always, consult your healthcare provider or lactation specialist before making changes to your routine. 

At Milk Herbs, we wish you strength, comfort, and success on your breastfeeding journey! 

Educational Information
This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace advice from your healthcare provider or lactation consultant.