Does breastmilk supply decrease when sick?

Understanding Breastmilk Supply During Illness
When a breastfeeding mother falls ill, concerns about her milk supply often arise. The relationship between maternal health and breastmilk production is complex, influenced by various factors including hydration, stress, and the nature of the illness itself.
Impact of Illness on Milk Supply
Research indicates that while some illnesses can lead to a temporary decrease in breastmilk supply, this is not universally the case. For instance, common viral infections like colds or the flu typically do not affect the composition of breastmilk or its safety for the infant. In fact, breastfeeding during such illnesses can be beneficial, as the antibodies produced in response to the infection can be passed to the baby, bolstering their immune system.
However, certain conditions can indeed impact milk production. Stress and dehydration are significant factors that can lead to a decrease in supply. When a mother is unwell, she may not drink enough fluids or may experience increased stress, both of which can hinder milk production. Additionally, if the illness causes fatigue or discomfort, it may become more challenging for the mother to maintain regular breastfeeding or pumping schedules, further contributing to a potential drop in supply.
Managing Milk Supply While Sick
To mitigate the risk of decreased milk supply during illness, mothers are encouraged to stay hydrated and rest as much as possible. Frequent breastfeeding or pumping can help maintain supply, as milk production operates on a supply-and-demand basis. If a mother is unable to breastfeed directly due to her illness, pumping between feedings can help stimulate production and prevent a drop in supply.
Moreover, it’s essential for mothers to consult healthcare providers regarding any medications they may need to take while sick. Some medications can affect milk supply, so understanding which are safe to use is crucial.
Conclusion
In summary, while illness can pose challenges to breastfeeding mothers, it does not automatically lead to a decrease in breastmilk supply. By managing hydration, stress, and feeding routines, mothers can continue to provide nourishment to their infants even during times of sickness. The key lies in understanding the body’s needs and responding appropriately to maintain both maternal health and breastfeeding success.

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.

What is the 3 month breastfeeding crisis?

As you may have read in my other blog about a baby’s breastfeeding crisis, a breastfeeding crisis, sometimes called a growth spurt, is a common phrase used to describe a phase where mothers may encounter significant breastfeeding challenges, typically related to an increase in milk demand from the baby.

Will milk supply come back after being sick?

Supply usually returns once you get better, especially if you continue to nurse on demand or pump frequently.

Does 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 is the 3-3-3 rule for breast milk?

The ‘Rule of Three’ guideline suggests allowing the baby to nurse for at least three minutes on each breast to ensure they receive a balance of foremilk (initial, thirst-quenching milk) and hindmilk (higher-fat, calorie-rich milk).

Do soft breasts mean low milk supply?

You do not have low milk supply because your breasts feel softer than they used to. The excessive fullness we experience in the early days of breastfeeding is about vascular engorgement (blood and lymph) and it’s about the body inefficiently storing unnecessary amounts of milk between feeds.

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.

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.

Can being sick cause low milk supply?

Getting 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.

What is the 5 5 5 rule for breast milk?

Something I recommend to moms is the 5-5-5 rule. Try and use milk within five hours at room temperature, five days in the fridge, and by five months in the freezer.