09/03/2026
Save this for when you need it! ⬇️
1. I removed milk early and often
Feeding or pumping frequently in the early weeks told my body exactly how much milk to make. Supply responds to demand — every single time.
2. I didn’t skip night milk removals in the beginning
Night feeds and pumps mattered, especially early on when prolactin is highest. Sleep is important, but so is establishing supply first.
3. I made sure baby had an effective latch and transfer
A baby at the breast isn’t the same as milk removal. I paid attention to swallowing, comfort, and output — not just time spent nursing.
4. I addressed issues early instead of “waiting it out”
Pain, clicking, shallow latch, slow weight gain — I didn’t ignore red flags. Early tweaks prevented bigger supply problems later.
5. I supported my body with food and fluids (consistently, not perfectly)
Enough calories, protein, hydration, and salt. No extreme diets. No “oops I forgot to eat all day” on repeat.
6. I protected rest where I could
Not perfect sleep — intentional rest. I rested during feeds, napped when possible, and lowered expectations instead of pushing through exhaustion.
7. I pumped strategically, not obsessively
I used pumping to protect or build supply when needed — not out of panic or comparison. Purpose over pressure.
8. I didn’t rely on supplements to do the work for me
No tea or cookie replaces milk removal. Supplements can support supply, but they’re never the foundation.
9. I adjusted as my baby grew instead of staying on autopilot
Growth spurts, longer stretches, distracted feeding — I adapted feeding and pumping patterns as needs changed.
10. I asked for help — even as the “expert”
Knowledge doesn’t make you immune to challenges. Support matters, especially when hormones, sleep deprivation, and real life are involved.
Tiffany Lebano is a Registered Nurse and IBCLC supporting families with personalized, evidence-informed feeding, breastfeeding and sleep support.
She works with families across Maryland, with virtual care available more broadly.
Book a session with Tiffany here:
https://tiffany-lebano.themamacoach.com/booknow/
Not local? We can connect you with a Mama Coach in your community:
https://themamacoach.com/find-a-mama-coach/
