If you’re trying to breastfeed and things aren’t going the way you hoped—maybe your baby isn’t gaining weight, your supply feels low, or you’re trying to nurse an adopted baby—it can feel overwhelming fast. You want to breastfeed, but something’s getting in the way. That’s where the Supplemental Nursing System (SNS) comes in. It may sound a bit clinical, but it’s actually one of the most human, supportive tools out there.
With an SNS, your baby stays at the breast, stimulating your body to keep (or start) producing milk, while also getting all the nourishment they need.
Let’s walk through how it works, who it’s for, and how to use it.
What Is A Supplemental Nursing System (SNS)?
An SNS is a simple device that lets your baby feed at the breast while also getting extra milk from a small container. You tape a thin tube to your nipple so your baby can nurse normally, and the tube delivers either pumped breast milk or formula.
This setup helps:
- Babies stay interested in the breast (even if your supply is low)
- Your body gets the message to make more milk
- You bond with your baby through skin-to-skin contact
Some moms use it short-term while waiting for their supply to increase. Others use it longer, especially if they’re adoptive parents, inducing lactation, or recovering from birth complications.
Who Can Benefit From Using An SNS?
If you’re wondering if the SNS is for you, here are a few situations where it can make a real difference:
When Mom…
- Has a low milk supply
- Is an adoptive, surrogate, or non-birth parent inducing lactation
- Has had previous breast surgery
- Has hypoplastic breasts (underdeveloped milk ducts)
- Has flat or inverted nipples
When Baby…
- Was born prematurely or is in the NICU
- Has Down syndrome or a cleft lip/palate
- Is lethargic or very sleepy at the breast
- Has neurological conditions that affect feeding
- Is underweight or struggling to gain
- Has suckling issues and needs extra support
Even if you’re just trying to prevent nipple confusion or offer occasional supplementing, an SNS helps keep breastfeeding part of your routine.
Supplemental Nursing System Vs. Bottle Feeding
There’s no one-size-fits-all feeding method, but here are some things to consider:
SNS Pros:
- Keeps baby at the breast, supporting the nursing relationship
- Encourages milk production
- Avoids nipple confusion
SNS Cons:
- Takes practice to set up
- Tubes need to be cleaned thoroughly after every use
- Some babies may notice the tubing and fuss at first
Bottle Pros:
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Familiar to many caregivers
Bottle Cons:
- Can lead to preference over breast
- Doesn’t stimulate milk production the same way
What The Research Says About Using An SNS
Several studies show that using a Supplemental Nursing System can speed up the transition to full breastfeeding—especially for preemies. In one clinical study (PubMed), babies using an SNS reached exclusive breastfeeding days earlier than those using bottles. Other research highlights higher rates of breastfeeding continuation when parents use an SNS, often because it supports both emotional and physical aspects of feeding (NIH).
Lactation consultants often recommend SNS use when parents are motivated to breastfeed but need a little extra support. It’s not a magic fix, but it’s a strong tool in the toolbox.
How To Use A Supplemental Nursing System
Using an SNS can feel fiddly at first, but it gets easier. Here’s a basic rundown:
- Prepare the milk. Pumped breast milk or formula, room temperature or slightly warmed.
- Fill the container. Most SNS kits come with a small bottle or bag.
- Tape the tube. Secure the feeding tube so the tip lines up with your nipple.
- Latch your baby. Aim for a deep, comfortable latch just like regular breastfeeding.
- Watch for swallowing. If you hear or see regular swallowing, the system is working.
To clean the SNS: rinse all parts with cool water first, then wash with warm soapy water, and sterilize. (LLLI)
Other Tips That Can Make It Easier
- You can place the bottle under your arm, in your pocket, or hang it around your neck—whatever feels most comfortable.
- The tube doesn’t need to be filled before feeding.
- The tube can be gently inserted once baby is latched, aiming slightly toward the roof of their mouth.
- If it slips, try taping it to your breast or holding it with your fingers.
- Never cut the end of the tube; a sharp edge can hurt your baby.
Want Faster Flow? Try This
- Warm the milk slightly (not hot!) to improve flow
- Raise the container—higher position means faster flow
- Use a larger tube size if your kit allows
- Insert the tube a bit deeper into baby’s mouth, but always gently
Start slow and adjust only as needed—you want the milk to flow, not overwhelm your baby.
Choosing The Right Supplemental Nursing System
If you’re ready to try an SNS, here are a few things to look for:
- Tube size and softness. Softer tubes are more comfortable for baby.
- Flow control. Adjustable flow makes feeding easier to manage.
- Ease of cleaning. Fewer parts = less stress.
Brands like Medela, Haakaa and Lact-Aid make popular systems, and some hospitals may offer loaner kits or guides.
Weaning From The SNS: What To Expect
Once breastfeeding is going more smoothly, you may start to phase out the SNS. This doesn’t need to happen overnight.
Try offering the breast first without the tube. If baby still seems hungry, follow up with the SNS. Over time, your body may increase supply enough that supplements aren’t needed anymore. For some, transitioning away from the SNS takes a few weeks. For others, longer. Be patient with yourself and your baby’s pace.
Final Thoughts: Is The Supplemental Nursing System Right For You?
If you’re navigating breastfeeding challenges, know this: you’re not alone, and there are options. The Supplemental Nursing System isn’t a shortcut. It’s a smart, supportive way to meet your baby’s needs while protecting your breastfeeding goals. It takes patience, sure—but so does all of parenthood.
With the right guidance (hello, lactation consultant!) and a little persistence, you and your baby can find a rhythm that works. And if the SNS becomes part of that story? That’s more than okay. That’s winning.
Supplemental Nursing System FAQ
Absolutely. While many parents use expressed breast milk, formula works too.
Most feedings last between 20 to 40 minutes. If it’s taking more than an hour, check your baby’s latch and the tube placement.
Rinse the tube with hot water right after use. Wash the bottle and other parts with soap and water. Don’t boil the tube, as it may damage it.
It varies. Some use it for a few days or weeks, others longer. Your lactation consultant can help you decide.
Some parents use a thin feeding tube with a regular bottle in a pinch. Just make sure it’s clean and safe.
Resources
- Find a breastfeeding support group near you.
- Milkology Breastfeeding Class – Affordable, video-based online course to help you master breastfeeding at your own pace.
References
- Breastfeeding and the Use of Human Milk — American Academy of Pediatrics (2012)
- Infant and Young Child Feeding — World Health Organization (2023)
- Medela Supplemental Nursing System — Medela (2023)
- Supplementing at the Breast — La Leche League International (2022)
- PubMed Study on SNS Use in Preterm Infants — National Institutes of Health (2022)
