Can being sick make your milk supply go down?

Introduction
When it comes to breastfeeding, many mothers are concerned about the various factors that can affect their milk supply. One question that frequently arises is whether being sick can lead to a decrease in milk production. This inquiry is not just about health; it touches on the intricate balance between maternal well-being and infant nutrition.
Understanding Milk Supply
Breast milk production is a complex process influenced by hormonal changes, the frequency of breastfeeding or pumping, and the overall health of the mother. The body produces milk in response to the demand created by the baby. This mechanism is often referred to as the law of supply and demand, meaning the more a mother nurses or pumps, the more milk her body will produce.
The Impact of Illness
When a mother falls ill, several physiological changes can occur that may impact milk supply:
1. Physical Stress: Illness often brings about physical stress, which can lead to fatigue and dehydration. Both factors can negatively influence milk production. For example, if a mother is not consuming enough fluids or has reduced her calorie intake due to illness, her body may not be able to produce milk effectively.
2. Hormonal Changes: Certain illnesses can alter hormone levels in the body. For instance, conditions like the flu or a cold can trigger an immune response that might temporarily affect hormones responsible for milk production, such as prolactin.
3. Medications: Many mothers worry about the medications they may need to take when sick. Some medications can affect milk supply or the quality of milk. It’s crucial for breastfeeding mothers to consult with healthcare providers to ensure any medications are safe to use while nursing.
4. Nursing Frequency: If a mother is feeling unwell, she may nurse less frequently due to discomfort or fatigue. This reduced demand can lead to a decrease in milk production over time.
Reassurance and Recovery
It’s important to note that while being sick can affect milk supply, most mothers will not experience a significant drop in production if they maintain proper hydration and nutrition. The body is resilient, and with adequate rest and care, many mothers find their milk supply returns to normal.
Support Systems: Engaging support systems, whether it be family, friends, or lactation consultants, can also help mothers navigate breastfeeding during illness. They can provide encouragement, help with nursing positions, or offer practical assistance such as meal prepping.
Conclusion
In summary, being sick can indeed have an impact on a breastfeeding mother’s milk supply due to a variety of factors, including physical stress, hormonal changes, medication effects, and changes in nursing frequency. However, with proper care and support, many mothers can maintain their milk supply during illness. Understanding these dynamics can empower nursing mothers to prioritize their health while ensuring their babies receive the nourishment they need.

Is it normal for milk supply to decrease when sick?

Just catching a virus or bug such as the flu, a cold, or a stomach virus won’t decrease your milk supply. However, related symptoms such as fatigue, diarrhea, vomiting, or decreased appetite definitely can.

How to tell if breast milk is drying up?

The following are signs your baby isn’t getting enough milk:

1. Poor weight gain. It’s normal for newborns to lose 5% to 7% of their birth weight in the first few days – some lose up to 10%.
2. Insufficient, wet or dirty nappies.
3. Dehydration.

How do I get my milk supply back after being sick?

“Sometimes — but not always! — being ill can be stressful on your body, and you may see a dip in your supply,” tells Lori Theisen, Nest Collaborative IBCLC. To recover and protect your milk supply, she advises that you “Stay hydrated, eat well, get lots of rest, and nurse on cue.”

Do soft breasts mean no milk?

Your breasts feel softer
This happens as your milk supply adjusts to your baby’s needs. The initial breast fullness reduces in the first few weeks. At around 6 weeks, breast fullness is completely gone and your breasts may feel soft. This is completely normal and has no effect on your milk supply.

What decreases milk supply?

Other things that can also lead you to have low milk production include:

• Smoking or drinking.
• Some medicines and herbs.
• Hormonal forms of birth control. This is especially true for birth control that has estrogen.
• Nursing or pumping less often.
• Getting sick.
• Feeling stressed.
• Getting pregnant again.

Do soft breasts mean low milk supply?

Your breasts feel softer
This happens as your milk supply adjusts to your baby’s needs. The initial breast fullness reduces in the first few weeks. At around 6 weeks, breast fullness is completely gone and your breasts may feel soft. This is completely normal and has no effect on your milk supply.

Will my baby get sick if I’m sick?

While you’re sick, though, protect your baby from as many germs as possible. Babies have a higher risk of catching the flu and having health problems from it. So: Wash your hands well and often.

Will pumping every 2 hours increase milk supply?

Pump more often, from both breasts
Many women wonder how often they should pump. A general guideline is to pump every three hours. But if you’re trying to produce more breast milk, you can: Try pumping both breasts for 15 minutes every two hours for 48-72 hours.

What causes a drastic drop in milk supply?

A decrease in milk supply can be caused by a variety of different factors. A very common (and solvable) problem is not pumping or feeding enough. Because milk production works on a supply and demand basis, not pumping on a frequent schedule will signal to your body that it does not need to produce milk.

Will being sick affect my breast milk?

Not only is it safe but breastfeeding during illness is also a good idea. The CDC states, “A mother’s breast milk contains antibodies and other immunological factors that can help protect her infant from illness and is the recommended source of nutrition for the infant, even while the mother is ill.