Breastfeeding can be one of the most rewarding parts of motherhood, but it can also come with challenges. One common concern many mothers face is a sudden decrease in breast milk supply. This drop can feel disheartening, both emotionally and physically, as it impacts not only your ability to nourish your baby but also your confidence as a breastfeeding mother.
Fortunately, understanding the causes and solutions can help you navigate this phase with greater ease and confidence.
Signs Your Milk Supply is Decreasing
When milk supply changes, it can happen either gradually or suddenly. Understanding the difference between a gradual and a sudden drop is important for determining the best course of action.
- Sudden decrease: A sudden drop in milk supply often happens due to a specific trigger, such as postpartum stress, illness, or changes in feeding patterns.
- Gradual decrease: A gradual decrease in milk supply may occur as your baby naturally starts to need less milk, such as when they begin eating more solids or nursing less frequently. This is a normal part of the weaning process and does not necessarily indicate a problem.
Recognising the signs of either type of decrease is crucial for taking the right steps to address the issue. Below, we outline some key indicators that can help you determine whether your milk supply has decreased and what to do next.
Weight Gain Concerns
One key indicator of a decrease in milk supply is your baby's weight gain. Babies should typically gain about 30g per day during their early months. As they grow, this rate gradually slows down. If you notice your baby is not reaching these milestones, it may indicate that they are not getting enough milk. Regular check-ins with your paediatrician can help track your baby’s weight gain and catch any concerns early.
Signs of Dehydration
Dehydration is another indicator of low milk supply. Signs that your baby might be dehydrated include fewer wet diapers, dark or concentrated urine, dry mouth, or crying without producing tears. In severe cases, dehydration may lead to sunken eyes or a sunken soft spot on the baby’s head. It’s important to consult your healthcare provider if you observe these symptoms.
Baby's Behaviour
Your baby’s behaviour during feedings can also provide clues about your milk supply. If your baby seems unusually fussy, struggles to stay awake during feedings, or appears lethargic, it may signal that they are not getting enough milk. Babies often become frustrated if milk flow is slower, which can lead to them refusing to feed or fussing more frequently.
Common Causes of Sudden Decrease in Milk Supply
There are various reasons why milk supply might suddenly decrease, and understanding these causes can help you make informed adjustments.
Stress and Emotional Well-Being
High levels of stress can significantly impact milk production. When you’re stressed, the body produces more cortisol, which can interfere with the hormones responsible for milk production. Postpartum blues, anxiety, and depression can all contribute to reduced milk supply, making emotional well-being an important aspect of successful breastfeeding.
Sleep Deprivation
Sleep deprivation is another common reason for a drop in milk supply. The exhaustion of caring for a newborn can make it difficult to get the rest you need, but sleep is essential for maintaining your overall health and supporting milk production. Try to rest whenever possible by sharing nighttime duties with a partner or asking for help from family or friends.
Reduced Breastfeeding or Pumping Frequency
Milk supply is largely driven by demand — the more frequently you breastfeed or pump, the more milk your body will produce. Spending extended periods away from your baby or reducing pumping frequency can lead to a decrease in supply. This is often a concern when returning to work, but you can maintain your supply by scheduling regular pumping sessions during breaks. For more information, check out our blog on balancing breastfeeding and work.
Change in Diet
A balanced diet is crucial for maintaining milk supply. Breastfeeding mothers need an additional 450 to 500 calories each day to support milk production. Skipping meals or following a restrictive diet can reduce the nutrients and calories your body needs, leading to a decrease in supply. Make sure you’re eating enough nutrient-dense foods to nourish both yourself and your baby.
Medications and Hormonal Changes
Certain medications, such as antihistamines, steroids, and some birth control pills, can reduce milk supply. Additionally, hormonal changes, such as the return of menstruation or pregnancy, may temporarily affect milk production. It’s important to discuss any new medications with your healthcare provider to ensure they are safe for breastfeeding.
Health Conditions
Underlying health conditions can also impact milk supply. Thyroid issues, whether hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, can interfere with lactation. Additionally, conditions like mastitis, clogged ducts, or engorged breasts can reduce supply. If you suspect a medical condition is affecting your ability to breastfeed, consult with a healthcare provider for advice and treatment.
How to Increase Breast Milk Supply
If you notice a sudden drop in milk supply, there are several steps you can take to encourage milk production and support your baby.
- Prioritise Self-Care: Self-care is crucial when trying to increase milk supply. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep, eating well, and finding ways to manage stress. Rest is essential, so reach out for support if you need help with household tasks or caring for other children.
- Hydration and Nutrition: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Eating a well-balanced diet with enough calories, including foods that increase breast milk supply, can also help boost milk production.
- Power Pumping: Power pumping can help increase supply by mimicking a baby’s cluster feeding pattern. Try a schedule like pumping for 20 minutes, resting for 10 minutes, then pumping again. Repeating this cycle for an hour can signal your body to produce more milk.
- Skin-to-Skin Contact: Spending time skin-to-skin with your baby can naturally boost milk production by increasing oxytocin levels, the hormone that helps with milk letdown. This contact also strengthens the emotional bond between you and your baby.
- Consult a Lactation Consultant: Alactation consultant in Singapore can help you identify and troubleshoot issues like a poor latch or low supply. They can provide personalised advice and strategies to help you meet your breastfeeding goals.
- Mental Health Support: If you’re struggling emotionally, consider reaching out to a healthcare provider. Therapy or medication may be helpful in managing postpartum blues, anxiety, or depression.
Moving Forward with Confidence
Experiencing a sudden drop in milk supply can feel overwhelming, but it’s important to remember that this is a temporary hurdle. With the right strategies and support, you can work to rebuild your supply and continue providing nourishment for your baby. Every breastfeeding journey has its ups and downs, and it’s okay to seek help along the way.
At Hegen Lactation Centre, we provide tailored support to meet your unique breastfeeding needs. Whether you need practical solutions to boost milk supply or emotional reassurance, our experienced lactation consultants are ready to assist. We believe that every mother deserves the guidance and care to make her breastfeeding journey as rewarding as possible, and we're here to help you every step of the way.