Struggling with Low Milk Supply? Here's How to Increase It
Breastfeeding comes with many challenges and difficulties, which is why it is considered the most rewarding experience. One of mothers' most common challenges in their breastfeeding journey is regulating their milk supply. It can be discouraging when you’re giving your best, yet constantly worrying whether your baby is getting enough milk. The good news? If you’re struggling with milk supply, there are several natural ways to boost milk supply and feel more empowered in your breastfeeding journey.
Signs of Low Milk Production:
Before you start the drill of increasing your milk supply, confirm if you have a low milk supply. Normal feeding behaviors or growth spurts can be misinterpreted as a supply issue. However, if you have a low milk supply, you’ll experience these signs
:
• Fewer than six wet diapers a day after the first week
• Poor or slow weight gain
• A baby who seems constantly fussy and unsatisfied after feedings
If these symptoms are consistent, it’s wise to seek breastfeeding support from a lactation consultant to assess what’s going on and discuss how to fix low milk supply while breastfeeding.
What Causes a Drop in Milk Supply?
Understanding what causes breastfeeding problems like low milk supply can help you address them effectively. Common causes include:
• Poor latch or improper positioning
• Infrequent nursing or long gaps between feedings
• Stress and fatigue
• Dehydration and poor nutrition
• Medical conditions such as thyroid disorders, PCOS, or hormonal imbalances
• Early use of pacifiers or bottles disrupts feeding cues
Identifying the root cause will help you choose the best remedies for low milk supply that work for your situation.
How to Increase Low Milk Supply Naturally:
If you’re wondering how to increase low milk supply, remember that your body works on a demand-supply system. The more milk your baby removes, the more your body will make. Here are some practical, natural strategies to increase breast milk effectively:
1. Frequent Nursing Benefits
Feed your baby often, on demand. This sends a strong signal to your body to make more milk. During cluster feeding, your baby may want to nurse more often, which naturally boosts production.
2. Use a Power Pumping Schedule
One of the top pumping tips is adding a daily power pumping session. This mimics cluster feeding and can signal your body to produce more. A simple power pumping schedule involves:
- Pump for 20 minutes
- Rest for 10
- Pump for 10 minutes
- Rest for 10
- Pump for 10 more minutes
Repeat this once a day for a few days to stimulate increased production.
3. Hydration and Milk Production:
Staying hydrated is critical. Aim to drink a full glass of water every time you nurse. Hydration and milk production go hand in hand. Pair this with balanced meals to keep your energy up.
4. Eat Foods That Help Increase Breast Milk
Your diet plays a major role in supporting lactation. Here are some foods that help increase breast milk naturally:
• Oats: Rich in iron and linked to better supply
• Fennel seeds: May mimic estrogen and boost milk
• Almonds: High in healthy fats and protein
• Leafy greens like spinach and kale: Packed with nutrients
• Garlic: Believed to encourage longer nursing sessions
Combining these into your meals is a simple, effective way to support breast milk production.
5. Try Galactagogues for Breastfeeding
Galactagogues for breastfeeding like fenugreek, blessed thistle, brewer’s yeast, and lactation supplements can support supply. Many moms also benefit from herbal milk supply boosters in the form of teas or capsules. Always check with a healthcare provider before starting new supplements.
6. Perfect the Latch and Switch Sides
A shallow latch can cause milk to be poorly removed, leading to a drop in milk supply. Ensuring a deep, effective latch and offering both breasts during each feeding provides more stimulation and supports milk production.
7. Pump After Feeding
Even a few minutes of pumping after your baby nurses can be a helpful milk supply booster. It signals your body to produce more milk for the next feeding.
What to Do If Breast Milk Is Low Despite These Efforts:
If you’ve tried these breastfeeding tips and are still wondering what to do if breast milk is low, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Sometimes medical conditions, such as retained placenta or insufficient glandular tissue, need specialized care. Breastfeeding support from a lactation consultant can help you pinpoint issues and develop a tailored plan.
Remember, emotional well-being is important too. High stress levels can interfere with how to make more breast milk, so take care of your mental health and lean on your support system.
Final Thoughts:
Dealing with low milk supply can be overwhelming, but it’s a common hurdle—and one that many moms overcome with time and support. Whether you’re increasing frequent nursing, trying natural ways to boost milk supply, adding lactation supplements, or tweaking your breastfeeding techniques, small, consistent changes can make a big difference.
Be gentle with yourself. You and your baby are learning together. Stay consistent, stay nourished, and remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, not failure. With the right knowledge, patience, and care, you’ll feel more confident in your ability to increase breast milk and nurture your baby through this beautiful journey.
