Relactation is so interesting, but you may not have heard of this term before.

It’s easy to surmise that it’s a term that is related to breastfeeding/breast milk, from the ‘lactation’ part of the term, and that would be completely correct. However, what exactly does ‘relactation’ mean and what does it involve?

We had a chat with the fabulous team over at La Leche League UK…

“Sometimes mothers may stop breastfeeding – for many reasons – but as time passes, they regret their decision and decide that they would like to start again. Re-establishing breastfeeding or ‘relactation’ is possible for many mothers.

It requires time, patience and determination, but whether you stopped breastfeeding due to a medical procedure, separation from baby, or simply not getting the right support, many mothers find they can rebuild a milk supply very successfully. How quickly and easily you can get back to breastfeeding will often depend on the reasons for stopping in the first place, and how long it is since your baby last breastfed. Getting skilled support, information and encouragement from skilled breastfeeding supporters will be really important (eg LLL Leaders, breastfeeding counsellors or IBCLCs) as you encourage your baby back to breastfeeding, and increase your milk supply.

You might find it helpful to define your own level of success in what you aim to achieve. You may be able to bring in a full milk supply, but even small amounts of breastmilk are great for you and your baby. If your main purpose is to enjoy the closeness of breastfeeding, you can aim to breastfeed for comfort whenever possible and use a nursing supplementer for feeds.

And, ANY breastmilk you produce will be a bonus for your baby.

For more information and ideas about relactation click here!”

Wow, isn’t it amazing that what our bodies can do?! Follow La Leche UK on Facebook for more useful breastfeeding support.