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Wellness

What You Need to Know About Low Milk Supply

THURSDAY, MAY 10, 2018

Low milk supply is often one of the biggest concerns that new mothers face. It can be difficult to understand how much your baby is drinking and whether they are getting enough.

Rest assured, most moms make plenty of milk for their babies. According to the Office on Women’s Health (OASH), around six weeks to two months, you may no longer get the sensation that your breasts are full.  This is normal and just means your body and baby have synced up to produce the right amount of milk for your baby’s needs. 

WHY YOUR BABY NEEDS MORE MILK SOMETIMES 

Babies have regular growth spurts, which typically occur around two to three weeks, six weeks, and three months of age. During these times, your baby may want to nurse more often and for longer. 

This can feel like seemingly nonstop feeding, and might leave you worried that your baby isn’t getting enough to eat. In most cases, your body responds to these increased needs by producing more milk. 

Follow your baby's lead. Frequent nursing helps build up your milk supply to meet your baby’s needs. 

A few simple strategies can help support your milk supply and make breastfeeding easier. 

TIPS FOR SUCCESS

  • Start with a good latch. Find a comfortable position that allows your baby to latch on well. If you’re having trouble, work with an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) to make sure your baby latches deeply and transfers milk well.
  • Watch for early hunger cues. Babies usually show signs of hunger before crying such as rooting, bringing their hands to their mouth, or becoming more alert. Feeding at these early cues can make latching easier and support a healthy milk supply.
  • Offer both breasts. Start with one breast and let your baby nurse as long as they are actively sucking and swallowing. If they slow down, offer the second breast. 
  • Feed on demand. Aim to breastfeed 8 to 12 times a day to help stimulate and maintain your milk supply. 
  • Prioritize skin-to-skin. Skin-to-skin contact can encourage feeding cues, supporting a successful breastfeeding routine. 
  • Take care of yourself. Breastfeeding requires extra energy, so make sure to get enough rest, hydrate, and eat healthy meals to promote a healthy milk supply. 
  • Limit early supplementation when possible. Try to avoid introducing a pacifier or bottle during the early weeks. Breast milk provides all the nutrition your baby needs for the first six months, and unnecessary supplementation may impact your supply. 

Get support with breastfeeding

If you’re worried about low milk supply, you don’t have to figure it out on your own. Beebe’s certified lactation consultants, counselors, and breastfeeding champions can help troubleshoot challenges, improve milk production, and provide personalized guidance throughout your breastfeeding journey. 

Need additional support with low milk supply or other concerns? Call (302) 645-3577 to learn more or schedule a consultation with an IBCLC.