The Three Step Framework for
Inducing LactationTM
a flexible and customizable approach to inducing lactation for non-gestational parents based on over 40 years of published research
Inducing lactation isn't one size fits all. Over the past 15+ years guiding parents through inducing lactation I found that many of my clients' needs were met with a standard protocol I have honed over the years, whereas others greatly benefitted from a protocol customized to their specific needs.
Is a standard protocol for inducing lactation right for you?
Whether a standard or customized protocol is right for you, it can help to understand the basic framework of the the three steps of inducing lactation.
Step 1
of inducing lactation is preparing the body and breasts for lactation. We do this by "tricking" the body into thinking it is pregnant. During pregnancy the glandular tissue in the breasts grows and develops, and by the end of pregnancy the individual can express some first milk.
When to start: Ideally 5-7 months before baby is expected to arrive but can start anytime -- even after baby is born.
Typical methods may include hormonal medications (estrogen and/or progesterone), domperidone, herbs and manual breast techniques.
Step 2
of inducing lactation involves expressing milk with an electric pump to start growing milk production before baby arrives. Step 2 can be helpful because the milk comes in VERY slowly when lactation is induced, unlike how the milk comes in very quickly following a birth. Any milk expressed in Step 2 can be stored and used for supplementation once baby arrives.
When to start: Oftentimes about 6 weeks before baby is expected to arrive. However, Step 2 may be as long as 8 weeks and as short as needed. Step 2 can even be skipped entirely.
Typical methods may include domperidone, herbs and pumping.
Step 3
of inducing lactation is the main event! Baby has arrived and parent is feeding baby their own milk at their breast. Milk production can continue to grow in Step 3 with breastfeeding.
When to start: Usually once baby arrives and breastfeeding is initiated.
Typical methods may include domperidone, herbs and breastfeeding. Some parents may be co-nursing with their partners during this step. Most other parents will need to supplement their milk with their own milk expressed in Step 2, donor milk, or infant formula. Supplementing the "just right" amount while avoiding artificial nipples are keys to long-term breastfeeding success.
