Can I pump less if I have an oversupply?

Understanding Oversupply and Pumping
For many breastfeeding mothers, the concern often revolves around not producing enough milk. However, an oversupply can present its own set of challenges. If you find yourself in a situation where you have an oversupply of breast milk, you might wonder if you can reduce the amount you pump without negatively impacting your supply.
The Nature of Oversupply
Oversupply occurs when a mother produces more milk than her baby needs. While this might initially seem advantageous, it can lead to discomfort for both mother and baby. Babies may struggle with feeding due to the fast flow of milk, which can cause issues like choking or excessive gas. Additionally, mothers may experience engorgement, pain, or even conditions like mastitis due to the excess milk.
Can You Pump Less?
Yes, if you have an oversupply, you can pump less. However, it’s essential to approach this carefully. Reducing the frequency or duration of your pumping sessions can help signal your body to decrease milk production. This is because milk supply is largely driven by demand; if you pump less, your body may respond by producing less milk over time.
However, it’s crucial to note that making sudden changes to your pumping routine can send mixed signals to your body. If you reduce pumping too drastically, you might experience discomfort or engorgement, which can lead to complications. Therefore, it’s often recommended to gradually decrease the amount you pump rather than making abrupt changes.
Strategies for Reducing Supply
1. Gradual Reduction: Start by reducing the time spent pumping during each session or by dropping one pumping session per day. This gradual approach helps your body adjust without causing significant discomfort.
2. Monitor Your Body’s Response: Pay attention to how your body reacts to these changes. If you experience pain or engorgement, it may be necessary to adjust your strategy and possibly pump a little more until your body stabilizes.
3. Consult a Lactation Expert: If you’re unsure about how to manage your oversupply, consulting a lactation consultant can provide personalized guidance tailored to your situation.
Conclusion
In summary, if you have an oversupply of breast milk, you can indeed pump less to help regulate your production. However, it’s important to do so thoughtfully to avoid discomfort and complications. By gradually adjusting your pumping routine and monitoring your body’s response, you can find a balance that works for you and your baby.

What happens when you have an oversupply of breast milk?

This can make your breasts feel swollen and painful. It can also cause your baby to be fussy during feedings, along with other symptoms. Your healthcare provider or a lactation consultant can help you figure out ways to produce less milk, making breastfeeding a more comfortable experience for you and your baby.

How long does it take to reduce oversupply while breast?

It takes a few weeks for your supply to settle down to what your baby actually needs. It is not unusual in the early weeks to feel as if you have too much milk, and to have times when the breasts feel full or even engorged. This is not the same as oversupply.

Can pumping too much decrease milk supply?

“Pumping increases milk production if a mother is pumping in addition to nursing her baby. But if she is pumping and then skipping breast feedings, pumping may decrease milk supply.”

How many ounces of breastmilk is a full supply?

For example, a more typical amount of milk for a mom to produce is 570-900 mL/19.27-30.43 oz a day.

Will oversupply correct itself?

An oversupply normally settles down in time as your supply regulates. But if it persists beyond six to eight weeks, the following might be helpful: Check your baby is latching well at the breast. Leaning back when feeding can help to slow the flow down if your baby finds it hard to latch (Trimeloni and Spencer, 2016).

How many ounces per day is oversupply?

If average is three to five ounces combined and you are getting that from each breast, you have an oversupply.

How many letdowns per feed?

There are usually 2-4 letdowns per nursing session, but you may not realize it unless you pay close attention to baby’s suckling pattern.

Can drinking too much water cause oversupply?

Drinking too much water could potentially decrease breastmilk supply. “Over hydration can impact the posterior pituitary, decreasing the hormonal regulation, and thus decreasing milk supply,” Kirts says. “Additionally, the body adjusts to regulate electrolytes which further impacts milk production.”

Should I pump less if I have an oversupply?

Make sure you are only expressing a small amount – 1 ounce or so – to prevent making an oversupply problem worse. The goal is to feel some relief from engorgement, but not to pump fully.

Does leaking breasts mean good milk supply?

You can leak breastmilk for a variety of reasons including having a full supply, or if your body is not yet sure how much to produce, if your mature milk is starting to come in, if you’ve missed a feeding, or even if you are just thinking about your baby.