Supply Line Feeding

A supplemental nursing system (often called a supply line) can be a helpful tool in breastfeeding when a baby needs additional milk. A thin, flexible tube is taped alongside the nipple and connected to expressed breast milk or formula, so the baby receives extra milk while nursing. Supply lines are commonly used when there is low milk supply, delayed lactogenesis, or when a baby is not transferring milk effectively due to oral restrictions such as tongue tie or lip tie. They can also support babies who have difficulty maintaining weight, were born prematurely, or are transitioning from bottle to breast. Using a supply line helps stimulate milk production through continued breast stimulation, supports bonding, and reinforces the baby’s association of feeding with the breast. With guidance from a IBCLC, families can use this tool as a temporary bridge while addressing underlying feeding challenges.