Home » Blog » Breastfeeding » How do you fix oversupply in one breast?

How do you fix oversupply in one breast?

Understanding Breast Milk Oversupply
Breastfeeding is often celebrated for its numerous benefits, but for some mothers, it can come with unexpected challenges, particularly when it comes to oversupply. This condition occurs when a mother produces more milk than her baby needs, which can lead to discomfort for both mother and child. While oversupply can affect both breasts, it is not uncommon for one breast to produce significantly more milk than the other, leading to feelings of lopsidedness and frustration.
Causes of Oversupply
The reasons behind an oversupply can vary. It may be a temporary issue, often resolving itself as the breastfeeding relationship matures, typically within the first six weeks. However, for some mothers, it can be a persistent problem. Factors contributing to this condition include hormonal imbalances, frequent pumping, or an overactive letdown reflex, which can overwhelm a baby during feeding.
Strategies to Manage Oversupply
Managing an oversupply, especially in one breast, requires a combination of techniques aimed at regulating milk production while ensuring the baby is adequately fed. Here are some effective strategies:
1. Adjust Feeding Patterns: One of the most effective ways to manage oversupply is to adjust how often you feed. If you are pumping or breastfeeding frequently, consider reducing the number of sessions. For instance, if you typically pump or express milk multiple times a day, try cutting back on one session. This can signal your body to produce less milk over time.
2. Nurse from the Affected Side First: When breastfeeding, start with the breast that has the oversupply. Allow your baby to nurse until they are satisfied before switching to the other breast. This approach can help regulate the milk supply in the overactive breast while ensuring your baby gets the foremilk, which is higher in lactose and can help them feel full.
3. Use Block Feeding: Block feeding involves nursing from one breast for a set period (usually 3-4 hours) before switching to the other breast. This method can help reduce the milk supply in the oversupplied breast by allowing it to empty more completely during each feeding session.
4. Consider Pumping Less: If you are pumping to relieve discomfort, try to limit the amount of milk you express. Over-pumping can exacerbate the issue by signaling your body to produce even more milk. Instead, pump just enough to relieve pressure without fully emptying the breast.
5. Seek Professional Guidance: If the oversupply persists or causes significant discomfort, consulting a lactation consultant or healthcare professional can provide personalized strategies and support. They can help assess your situation and offer tailored advice to manage your milk supply effectively.
Conclusion
While having an oversupply of breast milk might seem advantageous, it can lead to discomfort and feeding difficulties for both mother and baby. By understanding the causes and implementing effective management strategies, mothers can work towards achieving a more balanced milk supply. Remember, breastfeeding is a journey, and seeking support is a vital part of navigating its challenges.

Why is one of my breasts always engorged?

Engorgement in just one part of your breast could be from a plugged milk duct in that area. Anything that reduces or stops milk flow can cause a milk “log jam” in all or part of your breast. If the backup continues too long, you could end up with a breast inflammation or infection called mastitis.

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).

How can I reduce my milk oversupply in one breast?

Block feeding ensures that one breast always contains leftover milk. This will trigger your breasts to reduce their milk production, and should gradually resolve oversupply of milk. How long it takes varies from person to person. Block feeding will also help to reduce the amount of thinner foremilk your baby eats.

How long does it take to correct 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 fix a slacker boob?

WHAT TO DO ABOUT IT. As long as your baby is growing and thriving on your breast milk, there is nothing that needs to be done about a slacker boob.

How do I fix my milk supply in one breast?

When there is less milk production in one breast, pump on the less productive side after feedings and in between your regular feedings. Remember, when it comes to breastfeeding, demand=supply. This is an excellent way to increase breast milk supply in one breast!

Should you pump if you have oversupply?

If your goal is to continue to have oversupply, yes, pump. If the goal is to bring supply more in line with baby’s needs, I’d only hand express to relieve pressure. Over time, your supply should go down a bit to adjust to what the baby needs.

Why is one breast over producing milk?

Uneven breasts often become more noticeable over time because your baby starts to prefer one breast to the other. Milk supply in each breast responds separately to your baby’s sucking. If you feed more on one side, that breast will make more milk. If less milk is taken from the other side, it will make less.

How long does oversupply take to correct?

If you’re sure you have an oversupply of breast milk, but you and your baby are happy, there’s no need to do anything. Most cases settle down after the first few months. And as your baby grows, he’ll get better at dealing with a fast flow, and may come to enjoy it!

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

Leave a Comment