Breastfeeding: What Causes a Low Milk Supply

LOW BREAST MILK SUPPLY AND HOW TO PREVENT IT

Breastfeeding is a natural and wonderful way to nurture your child. Natural does not mean that lactating is always easy. Sometimes it can mean a low milk supply. While low milk is not common, if present, can be stressful for mothers. 

So, what causes a low production in breast milk? According to the Mayo Clinic, there are a variety of reasons why your milk might not be flowing. Here is a list of possibilities:

• Waited too long to start breastfeeding can inhibit breast milk to flow.

• Your baby is not breastfeeding long enough. The average time for nursing is roughly 10 minutes. If your baby is feeding for less than 5 minutes, he or she will not be receiving the right amount of breast milk to grow properly and your breasts will not be sufficiently drained of milk.

• Certain medications can inhibit milk production.

• Issues with latching. If your baby cannot latch onto your breast properly, you may want to see a nurse, doctor, or specialist about different breastfeeding techniques.

• Previous breast surgery can be an inhibitor.

• Pregnancy-induced high blood pressure.

• Premature birth.

• Maternal obesity.

• Insulin-dependent diabetes – if poorly controlled.

• If your baby goes through a growth spurt, your baby will want to nurse more. You might seem like you have a low milk supply. Your body should recognize this and within a few days, your milk supply should naturally increase to the needed amount.

There are a number of ways to optimize breastfeeding and support a healthy milk supply. Here are a few methods:

• Try to breastfeed your baby soon after birth. A baby will likely feed within the first hour and waiting too long can lead to lower milk production.

• Make sure your child is properly latched and feeding in a proper position. If the breast milk is not flowing properly, it can reduce in production.

• Switch between breasts. If you use one breast only, make sure to pump the one not used. Using only one breast can cause an issue with your supply. You can also pump both breasts to relieve pressure.

• Breastfeed as often as possible. This can mean every 2-3 hours for the first couple of weeks or 8-12 times a day – and night.

• Inactive breasts will start to decrease milk supply. If you miss a breastfeeding session, make sure to pump your breast milk.

• A pacifier can interfere in breastfeeding – try to hold off using one for the first 3 to 4 weeks.

• See your doctor about your medication – some medications can lower your breast milk supply and might be questioned to use while lactating.

• Avoid alcohol and nicotine – Both substances can interfere and decrease your breast milk.

• Use a high-grade supplement like Fenuboost. This supplement – containing 100% pure fenugreek – through plant-based support has been trusted by mothers for decades. The guaranteed quality of Fenuboost makes it a bestseller among mothers. Each bottle is traceable to the Canadian farm where it was grown as well as locally produced through the highest standards. Made by a family for a family.

 *These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.