How can you increase a low milk supply after birth and move to exclusive breastfeeding?

Two things came up in the community's conversations more than any other way to increase milk supply and reach exclusive breastfeeding: professional support from a lactation consultant, and double sided pumping. Six women recommended seeing a lactation consultant — especially in a complex situation, where a general answer helps less — and five more described it as the treatment that worked in practice: some moved to exclusive breastfeeding with her help without a problem. Six women recommended double sided pumping, which increases quantities and saves time — with a double sided pump, 10–15 minutes of pumping is enough — alongside adding pumping sessions, drinking something warm while pumping, and massage. Alongside what worked, the community also shared what worked less: one woman recommended going to a breastfeeding class before the birth, because the information you get in advance gives you a basis for telling good advice from harmful advice; and another tried fennel tea to increase milk — in her case it made the baby gassy, and when she stopped it passed. The advice that came up again and again: don't stay alone with this — a good, supportive and kind lactation consultant in your area can really transform the situation.