Too much breast milk? How to reduce oversupply

Breastfeeding is a natural process that provides many benefits for both the mother and the baby. However, some mothers may experience an oversupply of breast milk, which can be uncomfortable and even painful. In this blog, we will discuss the causes of oversupply and provide some tips on how to reduce it.

Causes of oversupply:

There are several reasons why a mother may produce too much breast milk. Some common causes include:

• Hormonal changes: During the first few weeks after giving birth, a mother’s body produces high levels of the hormone prolactin, which stimulates milk production. Sometimes, the body may produce more prolactin than necessary, leading to an oversupply of milk.
• Overstimulation of the breasts: Frequent breastfeeding or pumping can signal the body to produce more milk than necessary, leading to an oversupply.
• Skipping feedings: If a mother skips a breastfeeding session or pumps less frequently than usual, it can lead to an oversupply of milk.
• Other medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can cause an oversupply of breast milk.

Effects of oversupply:

An oversupply of breast milk can be uncomfortable and even painful for the mother. Some common effects include:

• Engorgement: When the breasts are overfull, they can become hard, swollen, and painful.
• Leaking: The excess milk may leak from the breasts, causing embarrassment and discomfort.
• Blocked milk ducts: An oversupply of milk can cause milk ducts to become blocked, which can be painful and lead to infection.
• Fussy baby: A baby may have trouble breastfeeding if there is too much milk, leading to fussiness and frustration.

How to reduce oversupply:

If you are experiencing an oversupply of breast milk, there are several things you can do to reduce it. Here are some tips:

• Nurse or pump less often: If you are breastfeeding or pumping more frequently than necessary, try reducing the frequency to help reduce milk production.
• Use a breast pump: If you are experiencing engorgement or need to reduce milk production quickly, using a breast pump can help to express some milk and reduce pressure on the breasts.
• Use cold compresses: Applying cold compresses to the breasts can help to reduce swelling and discomfort.
• Use cabbage leaves: Placing chilled cabbage leaves inside your bra can also help to reduce engorgement and discomfort.
• Talk to a lactation consultant: A lactation consultant can provide personalized advice on how to manage oversupply and ensure that your baby is getting enough milk.

Conclusion

An oversupply of breast milk can be uncomfortable and even painful for the mother, but there are several things that can be done to reduce it. By following the tips above and working with a lactation consultant if necessary, you can manage oversupply and ensure that your baby is getting the right amount of milk. Remember, it’s important to listen to your body and your baby’s needs, and to seek medical advice if you have concerns.