Can diabetes cause low breast milk supply?

Understanding the Connection Between Diabetes and Low Breast Milk Supply
Diabetes, particularly when it occurs during pregnancy, has been linked to challenges in breastfeeding, including a potential reduction in breast milk supply. This connection is increasingly recognized in both medical research and clinical practice, highlighting the importance of understanding how diabetes can affect lactation.
Diabetes and Milk Production
Research indicates that women with a history of diabetes during pregnancy are at a higher risk of experiencing low milk supply. A study conducted by the Centre for Breastfeeding Medicine at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Centre found that maternal glucose intolerance can complicate breastfeeding efforts, making it more difficult for new mothers to produce adequate milk for their infants . This is particularly concerning as breastfeeding is crucial for the health and development of newborns.
Physiological Factors at Play
The physiological mechanisms behind this phenomenon are multifaceted. Fluctuations in insulin levels, which are common in individuals with diabetes, can directly impact milk production. When blood sugar levels are not well-regulated, it can lead to hormonal imbalances that may hinder the body’s ability to produce milk effectively. Additionally, women who are overweight, a common issue among those with type 2 diabetes, may face further challenges in initiating and maintaining breastfeeding.
Breastfeeding Challenges and Solutions
While diabetes can pose significant challenges to breastfeeding, experts emphasize that these challenges are not insurmountable. Many women with diabetes can successfully breastfeed, and doing so may even help regulate their blood sugar levels. It is crucial for new mothers to seek skilled breastfeeding support early on to address any issues that arise, such as slow milk production or the need for supplemental feeding.
Conclusion
In summary, diabetes can indeed contribute to a lower breast milk supply, particularly when it is present during pregnancy. However, with appropriate support and management, many women can overcome these challenges and successfully breastfeed. Understanding the implications of diabetes on lactation is essential for healthcare providers and new mothers alike, ensuring that both mother and baby receive the best possible care during this critical period.

What negatively affects breast milk supply?

Causes of Low Milk Supply
This might happen if you: Limit your baby’s breastfeeding sessions. Remember, the more you feed on demand, the more milk you make. Give your baby infant formula instead of breastfeeding.

When is it too late to increase milk supply?

NO, it is NEVER too late! 🚫⏰ With the right pump, flange, and schedule, you can absolutely increase your milk supply at any stage of your pumping journey.

How does diabetes affect your breasts?

Diabetic mastopathy (DMP) is a breast-related complication of type 1 or type 2 insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM). It manifests as hard, fibrous, and painless masses in one breast or both breasts. These masses are benign and irregular in shape. Interestingly, this condition is also seen in men.

What causes a drastic drop in milk supply?

Stress is the No. 1 killer of breastmilk supply, especially in the first few weeks after delivery. Between lack of sleep and adjusting to the baby’s schedule, rising levels of certain hormones such as cortisol can dramatically reduce your milk supply.

What happens to a baby when mom has diabetes?

If diabetes is not well controlled during pregnancy, the baby is exposed to high blood sugar levels. This can affect the baby and mother during pregnancy, at the time of birth, and after birth. Infants of diabetic mothers (IDM) are often larger than other babies, especially if diabetes is not well-controlled.

Does diabetes affect breast milk supply?

Diabetes can impact breastfeeding in a variety of ways, said Dr. Ramos-Roman. For example, it can lengthen the time before some mothers establish milk production. Breastfeeding can also change maternal blood sugar patterns throughout the day.

What are the effects of diabetes on a pregnant mother?

Diabetes can affect pregnancy health
These include birth defects, stillbirth, and preterm birth. Additionally, among women with any type of diabetes, high blood sugar during pregnancy increases women’s risk of having a cesarean delivery.

What happens if I eat too much sugar while breastfeeding?

If the mother consumes a diet low in diverse nutrients but high in processed foods or sugars, the infant is highly likely to develop childhood obesity or even type 2 diabetes.

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.

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.