Co-feeding and induced lactation

In some families, more than one parent feeds their baby. This is sometimes called co-feeding. It can look different in every family and may change over time. 

You can find a pattern that suits your baby and your family.

Co-feeding is when more than one lactating parent feeds a baby. This might include parents who:

• are already feeding a baby or child and have milk
• are making milk after giving birth
• have not recently fed a baby and want to start again (relactate) or begin for the first time (induce lactation)

There are many ways co-feeding can work. For example:

• One parent feeds in the early weeks. Later, another parent shares feeds.
• One parent does most feeds. The other feeds at night or once a day.
• One parent feeds for the first few months. Then the other takes over, such as when resuming work.

After birth, the birthing parent’s body makes the first milk for your baby. In the early weeks, your baby’s frequent feeding helps the breasts adjust to how much milk is needed.

In this early time, your baby will feed often from the birthing parent while milk supply is becoming established. It’s helpful to wait until this is happening comfortably before sharing feeds.

To build a milk supply, the non-birthing parent may choose to:

• start expressing before your baby arrives, or
• wait until after the birth and build supply with your baby’s feeding

After about 6 weeks, when milk supply is more settled, you might begin to introduce feeding with another parent.

If you’d like to learn more about building a milk supply, see our article on relactation and induced lactation.

Co-feeding can look different in every family. You might take turns with feeds, share day and night feeds, or each feed at certain times. Your roles may change over time. 

You may each maintain some milk supply and together you can meet your baby’s needs. Over time, you may develop a feeding pattern that allows both of you to provide regular feeds.

Many transgender and gender diverse parents feed and nurture their baby from their body. Feeding is about more than just the amount of milk. It’s also about comfort, closeness and connection.

Every person’s situation is different. Some people may have had surgery or used hormones, and others may not. What works best will depend on your body and choices.

Co-feeding can bring up many feelings. You might find it hard to:

• keep up more than one milk supply
• work out feeding roles
• manage feelings like jealousy or uncertainty

You may also have mixed feelings if feeding changes or stops. Some parents feel sadness or grief if things don’t go as planned.

These feelings are common.

You don’t have to manage them on your own. Reaching out for support can help.

Co-feeding is a journey. You may need to plan, adjust and stay flexible. Many families find a way of feeding that works for them.

© Australian Breastfeeding Association June 2026