These are some of the real-life situations that can present a new mother with the challenges of relactation, whereby the body returns to producing milk after having stopped or slowed down.

The amount of time it takes to re-establish a good milk supply also depends on how long it has been since the body stopped producing milk. And there is a point of no return, Shocker explains.

"As an example, if a mother was ill and didn't nurse for 10 days, it might take about 10 days to re-establish a supply," she says. "But the time would be different for each woman and the point at which she cannot successfully relactate is different for each."

How To Get Started, Where To Get Help
If you are considering relactation, Shocker says the first step is easy, but be prepared for a few challenges. Start by simply putting your baby to your breast and see what happens. If the baby has been on a bottle or is reluctant for suck for another reason, you will need to stimulate milk production with a pump. In fact, you may want to consider using a double pump, pumping each breast simultaneously.

"You'll need to use a hospital-grade breast pump, because most standard pumps won't be effective enough," Shocker explains. "You also may need a supplemental feeder, such as one with a small bottle and tubing that positions the bottle nipple next to your own. This measure helps encourage the baby to suck and helps ensure sufficient milk intake at each feeding."

Shocker also says mothers dealing with relactation must be prepared to invest the extra time it may require and to realize that, after all their efforts, they still may not be able to produce a sufficient milk supply.

"You have to ask yourself if you'll be happy with any amount of milk you can produce, and realize that any amount of mother's milk is a bonus of nutrition," she says.

Mothers attempting to relactate have a few sources of information and help. Shocker recommends first going back to the maternity or post-natal professionals at the hospital where you delivered. Many hospitals today have certified lactation consultants on staff. Shocker, for example, heads the Breastfeeding Resource Program at the Milton S. Hershey Medical Center of The Pennsylvania State University in Hershey, PA.

"Hospital-based experts will have access to the current literature and to the hospital-grade breast pumps you may need," she says. "They also have the specialized experience of assisting women in this situation."

Some Sources For Help And Answers: International Lactation Consultants Association Phone: 919-787-5181 Maintains a directory of certified lactation consultants. La Leche League Phone: 1-800-LALECHE Medela, a breast pump manufacturer. Information and resources: 1-800-TELL-YOU.

An Extra Helping Hand The San Diego County Breastfeeding Coalition provides some information to new mothers about two supplements that can sometimes help in milk production. One is the prescription drug, Reglan, which is used in infants, children and adults to improve upper gastrointestinal function. As a side effect, Reglan has the ability to increase prolactin, the milk-making hormone in the brain. To increase milk production, its use is recommended along with frequent and regular breast pumping. The herb fenugreek has been reported to be effective for some women with low milk production. Although it's unknown precisely why it helps, one school of thought suggests that fenugreek may affect milk production because the breast is a modified sweat gland and the herb is known to stimulate sweat production. It is important to discuss medications and herbs with your doctor before using them.