How do you fix oversupply of breast milk?

Understanding Breast Milk Oversupply
Breast milk oversupply is a condition where a mother produces more milk than her baby can consume. While having an ample supply of milk can be beneficial, it can also lead to discomfort for the mother and feeding difficulties for the baby. The condition can be confused with breast engorgement or a rapid let-down reflex, making it essential to identify the signs and implement effective management strategies.
Identifying Oversupply
Mothers experiencing oversupply may notice symptoms such as breast fullness, leaking milk, or a baby who struggles to latch properly due to the forceful flow of milk. Babies may also exhibit signs of discomfort, such as fussiness during feeding or excessive spitting up, even if they are gaining weight adequately.
Strategies for Managing Oversupply
To address oversupply, the primary goal is to reduce milk production while ensuring that both mother and baby remain comfortable. Here are several strategies that can help:
1. Adjust Feeding Frequency: One effective method is to reduce the frequency of milk removal. This can be done by breastfeeding one less time each day or allowing longer intervals between feedings. The body typically adjusts milk production based on demand, so decreasing the number of times milk is expressed can signal the body to produce less.
2. Hand Expression: Before breastfeeding, mothers can hand express or pump just enough milk to relieve pressure and allow the baby to latch more easily. This technique helps manage the initial fast flow of milk, making feeding more comfortable for the baby.
3. Positioning Techniques: Utilizing gravity can also aid in managing oversupply. Feeding in a laid-back or reclined position allows the baby to have more control over the flow of milk, which can help prevent choking or discomfort. Frequent burping and giving the baby breaks during feeding can further help them pace themselves.
4. Consulting Professionals: If oversupply persists or causes significant issues, reaching out to an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) can provide tailored advice and support. These professionals can offer personalized strategies and help troubleshoot any ongoing challenges.
5. Mindful Pumping: If pumping is necessary, mothers should consider reducing the duration and frequency of pumping sessions. Over-pumping can exacerbate oversupply, so it’s crucial to pump only as needed.
Conclusion
Managing breast milk oversupply requires a combination of understanding the condition, adjusting feeding practices, and possibly seeking professional guidance. By implementing these strategies, mothers can find relief from discomfort and create a more harmonious feeding experience for both themselves and their babies.

How many ounces is considered oversupply?

When feeding directly at breast, the average 1-9 month old will take about 2.5-5 oz of breastmilk per feed. In the context of oversupply, a woman may have 6 or more ounces in one breast alone.

What is the 120 pumping rule?

The first 12 weeks of your breastfeeding journey requires frequent breastmilk removal, stimulating healthy milk production. Studies show moms who exclusively pump for a minimum of 120 minutes per day can make enough to feed their babies primarily breastmilk.

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.

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.

Is it normal to pump every 2 hours only getting 1 oz?

According to the Journal of Gynecology and Neonatal Nursing, women produce about 440 to 1220 milliliters (15 to 41 ounces) of breast milk per day once lactation is established. This is just 0.5 to 1.7 ounces per hour. Pumping just 1 or 2 oz of breast milk in a few hours is normal.

How can I reduce my milk oversupply?

Follow the advice below to help reduce oversupply.

1. Rule out any health issues.
2. Nurse your baby often.
3. Positioning and attachment.
4. Let baby decide how long to feed.
5. Block feeding.
6. Cold compress.
7. Cabbage leaves.
8. Ask our breastfeeding experts.

Should I pump if I have 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.

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.

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.