Breast milk supply is the amount of milk a mother’s body produces to nourish her baby. While some fluctuations are normal during breastfeeding, recognizing signs of a true decrease is important. This allows for timely intervention to ensure the baby receives adequate nutrition.
Signs in Your Baby
Observing your baby’s behavior and physical cues can indicate if they are receiving enough milk. A noticeable sign of decreased intake is a change in feeding patterns. Your baby might become unusually fussy at the breast, pull off frequently, or seem unsatisfied after a long feeding. Conversely, very short feeds can also signal insufficient milk transfer.
Diaper output is another indicator. Fewer wet diapers than expected signal insufficient milk intake; after the first few days, a baby should have at least six wet diapers per 24 hours with clear or pale yellow urine. A decrease in the frequency or volume of dirty diapers, especially after the first week, also suggests the baby is not getting enough milk.
Weight gain is a primary measure of a baby’s milk intake and overall health. While newborns typically lose some weight initially, they should regain their birth weight by about two weeks. Slowing weight gain or weight loss after this period indicates insufficient milk supply. Additionally, a baby not getting enough milk might appear lethargic, overly sleepy, or struggle to stay awake during feedings.
Signs in You (the Mother)
Changes in the mother’s body can also suggest decreased milk supply. A common sign is a reduction in breast fullness or engorgement. While breasts naturally soften as supply regulates, a persistent lack of fullness, even before scheduled feeds, might indicate lower production. You might also experience less noticeable or absent let-down sensations, the reflex that releases milk from the breast.
Decreased output during pumping sessions can also indicate a supply dip, though pump efficiency varies, and babies are often more effective at milk removal. If pumping consistently yields less than before, it suggests a decrease. Additionally, feeding sensations might change; breasts may feel less “emptied,” or the baby’s swallowing may sound less frequent or robust. A lack of leaking milk is not necessarily a sign of low supply, as this varies greatly among individuals.
Common Factors and What to Do Next
Several factors can contribute to decreased milk supply. Infrequent feeding or pumping is a common reason, as milk production operates on a supply-and-demand basis; less milk removal signals the body to produce less. An improper latch can also lead to reduced supply because the baby cannot effectively remove milk. Other influences include stress and anxiety, which can interfere with milk-producing hormones like prolactin and impact the let-down reflex.
Certain medications, such as some oral contraceptives, antihistamines, or decongestants, can also affect milk production. Hormonal changes, like the return of menstruation, or underlying medical conditions such as thyroid imbalances or diabetes, may temporarily reduce supply. Illness or breast surgeries can also play a role in decreased milk output.
If decreased milk supply is suspected, several steps can be taken. Increasing feeding frequency, aiming for 8-12 feeds in 24 hours, helps stimulate milk production. Ensuring a proper latch is important for effective milk transfer and supply stimulation. Skin-to-skin contact with the baby can also encourage milk production and release.
Staying well-hydrated and prioritizing rest supports milk supply. If concerns persist or the baby shows signs of dehydration or poor weight gain, seek professional help from a lactation consultant or healthcare provider.