The Three Step Framework for

Inducing LactationTM 

is a flexible and customizable approach to inducing lactation for non-gestational parents based on over 40 years of published research1

An international board certified lactation consultant (IBCLC) experienced in inducing lactation can suggest how to skip or combine steps, adjust timelines, and select methods customized to your specific needs...

  • Previous pregnancy and lactation, or first-time parent.
  • Hormone-producing ovaries, inactive ovaries, or no ovaries.
  • Long lead time before baby arrives, short lead time, or baby has already arrived.
  • Need or desire to avoid certain methods.
  • Sharing lactation with a partner or not.
  • Focused on what is most important to you.

 

 

1Schnell, A. (2022). The Three Step Framework for Inducing LactationTM. Journal of Human Lactation, 38(2), 252-261.

  

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.