Breastfeeding is one of the most natural and beneficial practices for nurturing a newborn, offering a multitude of health benefits for both mother and baby. However, the journey to successful breastfeeding can sometimes be met with challenges, especially when it comes to breast milk production.
Many new mothers encounter concerns about their milk supply, especially in the early days after birth. Understanding the factors that influence breast milk production can provide valuable insights and solutions.
In this post, we’ll explore the five key components that affect breast milk coming in after birth.
Should You Supplement If Your Milk Isn’t Coming In?
Before we get into those five components, let’s break down one of the biggest emotional hurdles with breastfeeding: should you supplement with formula? This is an especially important question if you’re struggling with your milk coming in.
My mantra is always: “protect your milk supply and feed your baby.”
Supplementing, when approached thoughtfully, does not signify the end of your breastfeeding journey, but rather a supportive bridge to ensure your baby’s needs are met while your body adjusts and enhances its milk production. This decision is about nurturing – nurturing your baby with the nutrition they need and nurturing your ability to continue breastfeeding.
It’s about getting over the initial hump, allowing you to continue on your path of breastfeeding with confidence and peace. Remember, every drop of milk you provide is a gift of health and love to your baby, and sometimes, a temporary supplement is simply another way to express that love.
1. Insufficient Glandular Tissue
Glandular tissue in the breasts is responsible for producing milk, and its adequacy is important for a sufficient milk supply. If you suspect your milk supply issue may be due to this condition, consulting a lactation specialist can provide strategies and support for breastfeeding success.
With subsequent pregnancies, you’ll continue to build more of this glandular tissue. Therefore, if you can’t fully breastfeed your first baby, you may still have a decent milk supply with future babies.
2. Hormonal Deficiency
Hormones play a pivotal role in initiating and sustaining milk production. Issues such as thyroid imbalances, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or diabetes can disrupt the delicate hormonal balance required for lactation.
Sometimes, you can have hormone issues due to postpartum complications. We see this a lot in moms who have retained placenta. A retained piece of placenta will continue to secrete progesterone which will interfere with the ability to make milk.
Symptoms of hormonal deficiencies may include a delayed onset of milk “coming in” or a noticeable decrease in supply despite regular breastfeeding.
3. Damage to Nerves or Milk Ducts
The physical condition of the breasts can significantly impact milk flow. Nerve damage or blocked milk ducts, often resulting from surgery, trauma, or infection, can hinder the milk production.
Women who have undergone breast surgeries – including augmentations or reductions – may experience these challenges. Moms who have previously had breast cancer may also experience this challenge, as radiation or chemotherapy can cause damage to milk-making structures.
4. Nutrition & Hydration
Adequate nutrition and hydration are foundational for healthy lactation. Breastfeeding mothers need more calories and a well-balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals to support milk production.
Similarly, staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water is essential, as dehydration can lead to decreased milk supply. Incorporating a variety of nutrient-dense foods and ensuring you’re drinking enough fluids throughout the day is important for milk production.
A key component to this whole picture is making sure that you’re well cared for. This includes proper nutrition, hydration, and rest! It can be difficult to rest, especially when breastfeeding, but it’s such a critical need for milk production.
5. Breast Stimulation
Regular breast stimulation is important for initiating and maintaining milk supply. This can be achieved through breastfeeding a baby who is effectively transferring milk from the breast or the use of a breast pump. An electric breast pump is helpful to stimulate milk production if your baby is not doing well at the breast.
Navigating the challenges of breastfeeding can be daunting, especially when faced with issues related to milk supply. By understanding the critical components that influence breast milk production, mothers can take proactive steps toward addressing these concerns.
Remember, every breastfeeding journey is unique, and what works for one mother may not work for another. Patience, self-care, and seeking support from healthcare professionals and lactation consultants can provide the guidance and reassurance needed to overcome obstacles and foster a fulfilling breastfeeding experience.
As a dedicated breastfeeding medicine expert and a mom who’s walked the same path, I’ve crafted something just for you – a free guide designed to demystify the numbers that often seem so daunting. “Crack the Secret Code of Breastfeeding Math” is more than just a guide; it’s a beacon of confidence on your breastfeeding journey.
This invaluable tool is here to reassure you that you’re not just on the right path, but thriving on it. Whether it’s understanding your baby’s weight gain, managing your pumping schedule, or ensuring you’re meeting those all-important breastfeeding milestones, this guide has got you covered.
Confident breastfeeding starts here. Download the free guide now!
© 127 Pediatrics, April 2024
This article is for information purposes only. Please consult your personal physician for medical advice.
Dr. Andrea Wadley is a pediatrician and board certified breastfeeding medicine expert. She opened 127 Pediatrics in July 2018 as a way to provide a different option for families in the DFW area. In addition to pediatric care, she provides breastfeeding medicine consults both in person and online.
