Low Milk Supply?

It may come as a surprise to hear that in Australia, only around 14% of mothers are breastfeeding their babies beyond 6 months of age. There is also an epidemic of low breastfeeding confidence amongst new mothers, many of whom who are diagnosing themselves with low milk supply – a problem which is not exclusive to Australia at all.

As soon as some mothers give birth to their babies, they embrace the idea of routines in order to help them manage motherhood. Routines can be very helpful in some areas of life – however breastfeeding your baby is one area where routines can backfire, resulting in low milk supply. Hearing of a mother’s feeding troubles, well meaning friends or family members may suggest ‘top-up’ feeds with formula, which only makes the problem worse.

No matter where you go around the world, you’re bound to hear mothers’ stories of ‘running out of milk’. Some say they just didn’t have enough milk from birth, so they had to start their baby on formula to make sure they were full. Sadly, some of those mothers end up shocked to find that after introducing bottles, their baby ends up refusing the breast.

In order to prevent unintentional weaning or relying on formula, its really important to try and solve any breastfeeding issues as best you can, as soon as you can. Ask around for recommendations for a great lactation consultant, ideally an IBCLC. Alternatively, you can call the breastfeeding helpline offered by the Australian breastfeeding Association, or La Leche League in the US.

But according to Dr. Jack Newman, MD, FRCPC, the following 7 beliefs are NOT good ways of judging if you have low milk supply issues – and the number one issue he addresses is one that I see an awful lot of the time.

Low Milk Supply Incorrect Assumptions #1: “My Breasts Do Not Feel Full”

After the first few days or weeks, it is usual for most mothers not to feel full. Your body adjusts to your baby’s requirements. This change may occur quite suddenly. Some mothers who are breastfeeding perfectly well never feel engorged or full.