Low Milk Supply

This tag is used for content and discussions related to insufficient milk production during breastfeeding. It covers both perceived low supply, where a parent worries their supply is inadequate despite the baby thriving, and actual low supply, where milk production does not meet the baby’s nutritional needs.

This is a central resource for parents seeking information, support, and solutions for challenges with milk production.

We Look Into:

Signs of Low Supply: How to differentiate between true signs of insufficient milk transfer (like poor weight gain or low diaper output) and normal infant behaviours (like frequent feeding, fussiness, or shorter nursing sessions).

Causes and Contributing Factors: Exploring common reasons for reduced milk production, including:

Infrequent or ineffective milk removal (due to poor latch, scheduled feeds, or missed pumping sessions).

Hormonal conditions (e.g., PCOS, thyroid issues).

Certain medications or herbs.

Previous breast surgery.

Supplementing with formula without protecting the milk supply.

Strategies to Increase Milk Supply: Practical advice and methods for boosting production, such as:

Power pumping: A specific pumping schedule that mimics cluster feeding.

Galactagogues: Information on foods, herbs (like fenugreek or moringa), and prescription medications known to increase milk supply.

Ensuring a proper latch and effective milk transfer.

Increasing the frequency of nursing or pumping sessions.

Supplementation: Guidance on when and how to supplement with expressed breast milk, donor milk, or formula while protecting the breastfeeding relationship.

Professional Support: Information on when to seek help from a lactation consultant (IBCLC), doctor, or paediatrician to diagnose and manage supply issues.

Personal Stories and Emotional Support: A space for parents to share their experiences, frustrations, and successes, creating a supportive community around a common and often stressful feeding challenge.