If you suddenly notice a drop in your milk supply, don’t panic – this is a common breastfeeding problem that can be solved. It could be due to changes in your diet, stress, health, or even a change in how often your baby feeds.

We’ll look at some simple steps you can take to figure out what’s causing your milk supply to drop, how to restore it, and when you might need to seek professional help. By figuring out the issue, you’ll be able to take the right steps to keep you and your baby happy and healthy.

Is It Normal for My Breast Milk Supply to Decrease?

Sometimes your milk supply may decrease, and this is normal. Your milk supply may temporarily drop due to a variety of factors, including stress, hormonal changes, or changes in your baby's feeding habits. If you're worried, there are ways to increase your milk supply, such as feeding more frequently or using a portable pump, staying hydrated, and eating a balanced diet.

What Are the Signs of Low or Insufficient Milk Supply?

If you're worried about not having enough breast milk, here are a few signs to watch for:

• Your Baby Has Fewer Wet Diapers: Your baby should have at least six wet diapers a day. If they have fewer than six wet diapers, it could be that your baby may not be getting enough milk.

• Your Baby Is Gaining Weight Slowly: If your baby is not gaining weight as expected or is losing weight, it could be that they are not getting enough milk.

• Minimal Changes in Your Breasts: In the first few weeks of breastfeeding, your breasts should feel fuller before feeding and softer after feeding. The absence of these changes could indicate a supply problem.

• Your Baby's Behavior: If your baby seems unhappy or fussy after feedings, they may not be getting enough milk.

• Decreased Milk Production: If you notice a significant decrease in milk production when you're expressing yourself, this could be a sign that your milk supply is decreasing.

If you are concerned about these signs, it is best to speak to a healthcare provider or lactation consultant for advice and support. They will be able to give you the best breastfeeding products and tips to help you manage the situation.

Do My Baby's Feeding Patterns Affect My Milk Supply?

How you feed your baby plays a big role in your milk supply. If your baby feeds more often, your body will get the signal to keep producing milk. If your baby feeds less often or isn't emptying your breasts effectively, your milk production may start to decrease as you feel you can't process it.

You also need to respond to your baby's hunger cues. Introducing formula or not pumping can have an impact on your milk supply, so you need to consider when you can pump to maintain your milk supply. If you have any issues or changes in your milk supply, it's recommended that you speak to a lactation consultant who can provide you with valuable guidance and help you find the best way to maintain your milk supply.

What Are the Common Reasons for Decreased Milk Supply?

A decrease in breast milk supply is a major problem for breastfeeding mothers. Let’s look at some of the causes of a decrease in breast milk supply:

1. Inadequate Breast Stimulation and Emptying: If you don’t breastfeed or express regularly, your milk supply may drop. If you’re very busy at work and miss a few express sessions; this can cause your milk supply to drop, so try to keep a regular schedule of feedings or expressing to keep your milk supply steady.

2. Poor Sucking: If your baby isn’t sucking well, they may not be getting enough milk and your body’s milk production may start to drop. If you notice your little one is often fussy during feedings and not gaining weight as expected. This could be a sucking problem.

3. Maternal Health Issues: If you have a health condition such as a thyroid problem, this can also affect your milk supply. If you often feel unusually tired and your milk feels like it’s drying up, it may be time to get your thyroid levels checked.

4. Using Certain Medications: If you’re taking certain medications, such as birth control pills or antihistamines, this can reduce your milk supply. You can imagine starting a new medication and suddenly, you’re not producing as much milk as before. It’s best to discuss any new medications with your doctor.

5. Supplementing with Formula: If you start giving your baby formula, they may not breastfeed as much, which can cause your milk supply to decrease. If you start using formula at night to help you sleep, you can feel your overall supply decrease as your body adjusts to this new routine.

6. Sudden Changes in Routine: If you've gone back to work or traveled, for example, they can also disrupt your long-standing breastfeeding rhythm. Because you're back at work, you can't pump as often as before, and your milk supply may start to decrease.

What Can I Do to Help My Milk Supply?

Feed Often and on Demand

The more often and often you can feed, the more you can keep your milk production going. You can feed every 2-3 hours during the day, and if your baby is hungry before this time, you can feed earlier. This sends a strong signal to your body to keep producing milk.

Express After Feeding

When you finish breastfeeding, you can also express milk for 5-10 minutes using a manual or electric breast pump. This helps your breasts drain any remaining milk, signaling your body to increase levels and produce more milk. It's also a good idea to save a small amount of milk for when you need it.

Stay Hydrated and Eat a Healthy Diet

Drinking plenty of water and eating a balanced diet are very important for your milk supply. And experts recommend drinking at least 8-10 glasses of water a day, so you need to stay hydrated and fill up on fruits, vegetables, protein, and whole grains. This keeps your energy levels up and gives your body the nutrients it needs to produce milk.

Rest and Manage Stress

This is easier said than done, but try to rest when you can, such as when your baby is napping. Taking a little time to relax and de-stress can also make a big difference. You can choose yoga, meditation, or just some deep breathing to help keep your milk supply steady.

Avoid Smoking, Alcohol, And Certain Medications

It’s best to stay away from cigarettes and alcohol while breastfeeding, as both can affect your milk supply. Also, it’s recommended to discuss any medications you’re taking with your doctor. Some medications, such as certain birth control pills and decongestants, can affect your milk supply.

When Should I Consult a Lactation Specialist or Doctor?

If you are concerned about your milk supply, it is best to consult a lactation specialist or doctor as soon as possible. This is especially true if your baby has not returned to birth weight by 10-14 days old, or has not been gaining weight steadily since then. You can also consult a lactation specialist if you notice fewer than six wet diapers and fewer than three dirty diapers in a 24-hour period after the first week.

On the other hand, if your baby is constantly hungry and unsatisfied after feedings, or if your breasts do not feel fuller before feedings and softer after feedings. A sudden drop in the amount of milk you are able to express may also indicate a problem. Seeking professional advice can provide you with the necessary support and strategies to increase your milk supply and ensure your baby's health.