How do you fix oversupply breastfeeding?

Understanding Breastfeeding Oversupply
Breastfeeding oversupply, also known as hyperlactation, occurs when a mother produces more breast milk than her baby requires. While having an abundant milk supply might seem advantageous, it can lead to discomfort for the mother and feeding difficulties for the baby. Symptoms of oversupply can include engorgement, leaking, and a baby who struggles to latch or becomes fussy during feedings due to the fast flow of milk.
Recognizing the Signs
Mothers experiencing oversupply may notice their baby is often unhappy during feedings, despite gaining weight and appearing healthy. This discomfort can stem from the baby being overwhelmed by the rapid flow of milk, leading to choking or gagging. Additionally, mothers may feel pain or fullness in their breasts, which can be exacerbated by frequent leaking.
Strategies to Manage Oversupply
Managing oversupply involves several practical strategies aimed at regulating milk production while ensuring the baby receives adequate nutrition.
1. Block Feeding: One effective method is block feeding, where the mother allows the baby to feed from one breast for a set period, typically 2-4 hours, before switching to the other breast. This approach helps to reduce the overall milk supply by allowing the first breast to become less full, which can signal the body to produce less milk.
2. Laid-Back Breastfeeding: Another technique is laid-back breastfeeding, where the mother reclines slightly while breastfeeding. This position can help slow the flow of milk, making it easier for the baby to manage the intake.
3. Pumping Adjustments: Mothers should be cautious with pumping. Over-pumping can exacerbate oversupply by signaling the body to produce even more milk. If pumping is necessary, it’s advisable to pump only enough to relieve discomfort rather than to empty the breasts completely.
4. Avoiding Milk Catchers: Using silicone milk catchers can inadvertently lead to more milk being removed than the baby needs, further contributing to oversupply. Mothers should consider limiting the use of these devices.
5. Consulting Professionals: It’s beneficial for mothers to consult with a lactation consultant or healthcare provider who can offer personalized advice and support tailored to their specific situation.
Conclusion
While breastfeeding oversupply can present challenges, understanding the condition and implementing effective management strategies can help mothers find relief and ensure a more comfortable feeding experience for both themselves and their babies. By adjusting feeding techniques and being mindful of pumping practices, mothers can successfully navigate this common breastfeeding issue.

Should I pump if I have oversupply?

If you or your baby are experiencing unpleasant symptoms of oversupply, the most important intervention will be to avoid artificially stimulating your production. Ideally, pump only when your baby takes a bottle and only the same amount your baby drinks in a bottle.

How do you get rid of oversupply of breast milk?

Let baby decide how long to feed
Give your baby enough time to completely finish one breast before swapping to the second breast. With oversupply, babies tend to take only one side per feeding. It is best not to express at all unless you are very engorged. Pump just enough to relieve the discomfort.

Will oversupply fix itself?

Once the body knows how much milk baby needs each day (by how often and how much baby breastfeeds), milk supply settles down to match their exact intake. This is called supply and demand. You’ll often notice less engorgement and more supple breasts once this change happens.

How many ounces of breastmilk is considered an oversupply?

If you pump in place of breastfeeding, about two or three hours from your last breastfeeding or pumping session—well, here is where your true oversupply will show us what it can do. If average is three to five ounces combined and you are getting that from each breast, you have an oversupply.

Will pumping every hour increase milk supply?

Pumping frequency varies based on individual needs, but many find pumping more for about an hour a day for a few days can help increase milk supply.

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.

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).

What to do if your milk supply is too high?

Try feeding positions that use gravity to slow the flow of milk, such as a laid-back nursing position. Burp frequently and give your infant breaks to pace him / herself. Firmly press the pinky side of your hand into your breast (like a karate chop) during the initial fast let down to slow the flow of milk.

How long does it take to fix milk oversupply?

There are a few different treatment plans to help mothers who are experiencing an oversupply of breast milk. Some approaches work quickly, while others will take up to 1-2 weeks to reduce the milk supply. Every mom and baby responds differently. You may need to try a couple of solutions to fully resolve the concern.

Can you gain weight from milk oversupply?

Only if they are combined with excessive weight gain is breast milk oversupply likely to be the cause. Babies are expected to gain around 900 g (2 lb) per month, but in cases of oversupply, they will put on much more – often around double that.