Understanding Low Milk Supply In Breastfeeding

Worried About Low Milk Supply?

Breastfeeding is a beautiful and natural way to nourish your baby, but sometimes new mothers may experience concerns about low milk supply. However, with proper support and management, it is often a temporary issue that can be addressed.2 In this article, we will provide helpful tips and suggestions for increasing breastmilk supply to ensure your baby is receiving the nourishment they need.

Signs That Your Baby Is Receiving Sufficient Milk

Although it can be difficult to determine exactly how much milk your baby is drinking, there are some signs you can look out for to ensure that they are getting enough. Here are a few:

• Your baby's cheeks should look full during feedings rather than sucked in
• Your baby may let go on their own from your breast or fall asleep after feeding.
• Your baby seems full and happy after feeding.
• You can hear or see your baby swallowing during feeding.
• Your breasts should feel soft, not hard, after feeding.
• Your baby should have around 8 to 12 breastfeeds in a 24-hour period.
• Your baby passes a soft, yellow stool at least once a day.
• Your baby's nappies should be soaked at least 6 to 8 times a day.
• Your baby should gain at least 150g every week in the first three months for healthy growth.

What are Some Possible Reasons for a Low Milk Supply?

Sometimes your body might not be producing enough milk to keep up with your little one's growth and development needs. Below are some possible reasons for the low milk supply:  

• Supplementing breastfeeding with formula, juice, or water
• Using a pacifier or dummy
• Using nipple shields incorrectly
• Timing or scheduling breastfeeding instead of feeding on demand
• Health issues such as stress, hormonal disorders, insufficient glandular tissue, previous breast surgery, medical conditions like high blood pressure, anaemia, and retained placental fragments can also interfere with normal milk supply.
• Certain medications, such as cold and flu medications and hormonal birth control pills
• Smoking or high caffeine intake.

What are Some Effective Ways to Increase my Milk Supply?

We understand that worrying about your milk supply can be stressful. But don't worry, this is usually a temporary situation that can be improved with the right breastfeeding support and management.1 Here are some helpful suggestions to increase your breastmilk supply.

While Breastfeeding

• Breastfeed your baby frequently, a minimum of 8 or more times each day.
• Switch your baby from one breast to the other and try to offer each breast atleast twice.
• If your baby is latching but not actively drinking milk, you can try gently massaging or compressing your breast by placing your hand on the back of it to encourage milk flow.
• Make sure your breasts are emptied well during each feed or pumping session; you can express after breastfeeds to make sure.
• Don't go longer than 5 hours without milk removal. Use breastfeeding or a pump to empty your breasts if necessary.
• Hold your baby skin-to-skin while breastfeeding to keep them awake and increase hormones involved in milk production.

Lifestyle

Get plenty of rest to avoid negatively impacting milk production.

• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and increase milk production.
• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruit, veggies, and whole grains to meet your increased caloric needs when exclusively breastfeeding.
• Lower stress levels improve milk flow. You can always seek help from partners, family members, or friends.
• Avoid alcohol and smoking. Even small amounts can interfere with milk production and flow, which is not good for your baby’s health.

Conclusion

If you feel like you have a low milk supply while breastfeeding, don't hesitate to reach out for support. Speaking to your doctor, lactation consultant, or child health nurse can help you find ways to increase your milk supply or show you a better position to breastfeed.

Remember that breastfeeding is a learning process for both you and your baby, and seeking help can make a big difference in your breastfeeding journey!