What Do You Do If Your Milk Supply Suddenly Drops???
Many new mothers may experience a drop in milk supply along their breastfeeding journey. So what do you do if your milk supply suddenly dropped unexpectedly? While this can be disheartening, it is important to remember that it’s a common issue that can be resolved in most cases. In this article, we’ll explore the possible reasons behind the decrease in milk supply that you are experiencing and offer guidance on what you can do to address this issue.
5 Possible Reasons Why Your Milk Supply Suddenly Dropped
Before diving into solutions, let’s try to understand why your milk supply may have suddenly dropped in the first place. It is still important to speak with a lactation consultant for 1 on 1 advice because are several factors that may lead to this situation. Some medical conditions like thyroid disorders can also lead to a decrease in milk supply, but below are 5 popular causes:
- Hormonal Changes: You may be experiencing hormonal fluctuations which are related to your menstruation cycle, pregnancy, or postpartum period. This can have a huge impact on your milk supply.
- Stress and Anxiety: High levels of stress or anxiety can impact your milk production. You may be dealing with the everyday stress of raising an infant or balancing work with life. There may also be other changes in your life that are leading to stress and anxiety issues.
- Poor Latching: An improper latch by the baby can also result in less efficient milk removal, signaling the body to produce less milk. Are you really getting a good latch?
- Inadequate Feeding: Infrequent or insufficient feeding sessions can lead to reduced milk supply. Your child needs to be fed more frequently to stimulate milk production. How often are you feeding your child?
- Dehydration and Diet: If you are not drinking enough water, not getting the right vitamins or minerals, or consuming an insufficient amount of calories then it can also have a negative impact on your milk supply. What does your current diet look like?
5 Things To Do If Your Milk Supply Suddenly Dropped
1.) Stay Hydrated and Improve Your Diet
How can you improve your current diet? Do you have a balanced diet? Are you drinking plenty of water? Foods like oats, flaxseeds, and fenugreek may help boost milk supply. There are many foods that have been shown to boost milk supply. These are called galactagogues. I know it is hard for you to pronounce and spell but you can still discuss it with your healthcare provider. Some examples are fenugreek, blessed thistle, and lactation teas. You can also click here to learn more about 8 best foods for breastfeeding moms.
2.) Foster More Skin-To-Skin Contact
How often do you engage in skin-to-skin contact with your baby? Try spending more time with your child through uninterrupted skin-to-skin contact and it could promote healthier bonding while stimulating your milk production. skin-to-skin care is so essential for new mothers. Click here to learn more about the importance of skin-to-skin care after birth.
3.) Manage Your Stress
I know being a mother can be very stressful but it is important to take some time to find effective ways to manage your stress and anxiety. Stress management activities should be part of your regular routine. Activities like yoga, artistic expression, meditation, or talking to a therapist can be very beneficial in alleviating stress and maintaining a healthier lifestyle. What stress relief techniques have you tried in the past? Feel free to comment below if you have any tips that have worked for you.
Image source: Flickr, Mike Mozart
4.) Try Power Pumping
Consider incorporating power pumping sessions into your routine, even if the baby isn’t hungry. This involves pumping for shorter, frequent intervals to signal the body to produce more milk. By increasing the frequency of your pumping, you can ramp-up your body’s milk supply. Consider using breast compression techniques to help the baby get more milk out. Also, remember to make sure your baby has a proper latch to ensure efficient milk removal every time.
5.) Consult with A Lactation Consultant
If your milk supply issues persist, then feel free to consult with a lactation consultant today. Let us take some time to assess your specific situation in detail and provide you with more personalized guidance to solve your issue. Click here to schedule a lactation consult. Let’s talk about improving your milk supply.
Final Thoughts
A sudden drop in milk supply can be distressing for new mothers, but with the right support and strategies, it’s possible to overcome this challenge. Remember that a temporary decrease in milk supply is a common occurrence. By understanding the reasons behind the decrease in supply and taking appropriate steps to address them, you can get back on track. So stay confident in your ability to nourish your baby and be patient with the process and everything will turn out fine.
Kathy
Do you still need help?
Remember that every mother & baby is unique. So don’t hesitate to seek professional advice when needed. With patience, persistence and self-compassion, you can continue providing the best nutrition and comfort for your precious little one.
