On Demand Feeding

Why do I need to feed on demand?

Clare Byam-Cook says

Breast milk is produced on a ‘supply-and-demand’ basis, which means that your breasts should (see below) react to your baby’s individual needs. ie the more he feeds, the more milk they should produce and the less he feeds, the less they should produce. It is therefore vital to the success of breastfeeding to allow your baby to feed regularly in order to give the correct messages to your breasts. However, it is important to recognise that feeding ‘on demand’ means that you should be flexible with feed times – it does not mean you cannot or should not establish any routine at all.

Note: Not all breasts react properly, hence my use of the word ‘should’ rather than ‘will’ when discussing milk production. (see low milk supply)