3 Signs Your Milk Supply Is Decreasing And What To Do About It
Deciding to breastfeed your little one is one incredible choice a mom makes. Breastfeeding has many benefits for both the mother and child. Every mother tries her best to breastfeed her baby at least the first 6 months of life. But it can be incredibly challenging for various reasons. But what if you are running on low milk supply? Is your body giving you any signs of your reducing milk supply? How do you figure out what’s normal and what’s not? Continue reading the article to learn about the 3 tell-tale signs of your decreasing milk supply.
1. Your Baby Isn’t Gaining Weight
Though it’s normal to lose some weight after birth, babies should gain steady weight after the initial 2 weeks. If you feel that your baby is losing weight, its best to consult a doctor (1).
2. The Color Of Their Poop
If your baby is pooping yellow at least twice a day for the first few weeks after birth, it’s an indication that your baby is getting enough breast milk. So if you notice any difference in the color of their poop or the frequency of it, it’s a sign that they might not be getting enough milk. In such cases, consult a doctor immediately(2).
3. Your Baby Seems Lethargic
If your baby doesn’t look content and happy after a feeding session, it might be an indication of low milk supply.
Signs That DOESN’T Indicate Low Milk Supply
Babies may give out signs to be fed many times throughout the day. This can lead to moms feeling like they are not feeding their baby enough. Or that the milk they are producing in each nursing session isn’t enough to meet their baby’s needs. But that may not be the case. Keep in mind that babies feed around 8 to 12 times every day once the milk supply really kicks in.
Here are other things that moms think is an indication of reducing milk supply, but are actually not (3):
- My baby wants to be fed every 2 hours. Am I not producing enough milk?
This is common among breastfed babies.
- I no longer have T-shirts soaked in my own milk. Though I’m happy about it I’m worried if my milk supply is reducing.
This is normal after full milk supply kicks in.
- My baby has suddenly started to feed more. There is a sudden increase in the feeding sessions.
This is probably because of your baby’s growth spurt.
- I have started pumping breastmilk. But I get very little milk after a feeding session.
Since babies are better at extracting milk than a breast pump, your leftover milk cannot be considered as a good indication of your milk supply.
- My girls feel softer than how they were before. Is it because of a decrease in my milk supply?
No, this is normal after full milk supply kicks in.
How You Can Boost Your Milk Supply
If you are worried about having a low milk supply, please don’t be. We’ve got you covered. Here are different ways that can boost your milk production so that your baby has a happy and fulfilling nursing session (4).
1) Breastfeed Soon After Birth
Do skin to skin contact with your baby right after birth. This will promote breastfeeding. Start breastfeeding within the first hour after you deliver if you can. Don’t wait too long.
2) Increase Your Feeding Sessions
Breastfeed your baby every 2 to 3 hours especially in the first few weeks after birth. This will be equal to 8 to 12 feeding sessions per day. If you have missed or skipped a breastfeeding session, pump your breasts so that it doesn’t affect your milk supply.
3) Check If The Baby Is Latched On Properly
Make sure that your little one is latched on well and positioned comfortably.
4) Breastfeed From Both Breasts
Make sure you breastfeed from both breasts at each nursing session. If you have been nursing frequently from only one breast, make sure you pump the other breast.
5) Avoid Smoking And Drinking Alcohol
Try to avoid smoking or drinking alcohol while you are breastfeeding as it can affect your milk production.
If you feel like nothing is working or that you aren’t able to produce enough milk, seek help before you switch to formula. You can consult a doctor or breastfeeding professional to help you increase your milk supply or help you find a better position to feed your baby. And always check with your doctor before you take any medications during your breastfeeding period.
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