How to decrease oversupply of breast milk?

Understanding Breast Milk Oversupply
Breast milk oversupply, also known as hyperlactation, occurs when a mother produces more milk than her baby can consume. While having an abundant milk supply might seem advantageous, it can lead to discomfort for the mother and feeding difficulties for the baby. Babies may struggle with the fast flow of milk, leading to issues such as choking, gas, and fussiness, even if they are gaining weight appropriately.
Identifying Oversupply
Recognizing the signs of oversupply is crucial. Symptoms may include a baby who frequently pulls away from the breast, excessive spitting up, or signs of discomfort during feeding. Mothers may also experience engorgement, leaking, or pain. If these symptoms are present, it may be time to consider strategies to manage and reduce milk production.
Strategies to Decrease Milk Supply
1. Adjust Feeding Positions: One effective method is to try laid-back breastfeeding. This position allows the baby to have more control over the flow of milk, which can help manage the oversupply. Feeding in a reclined position can slow down the milk flow, making it easier for the baby to cope.
2. Hand Expression and Pumping: Before breastfeeding, mothers can hand express or pump a small amount of milk to relieve pressure and reduce the initial fast flow. This technique can help the baby latch more comfortably and manage the feeding pace better.
3. Block Feeding: This method involves feeding the baby from one breast for a set period, typically 2-3 hours, before switching to the other breast. This approach can help regulate milk production by allowing the breast to empty more completely, signaling the body to produce less milk.
4. Frequent Burping and Breaks: During feedings, it’s beneficial to burp the baby frequently and offer breaks. This allows the baby to pace themselves and reduces the likelihood of overwhelming them with too much milk at once.
5. Consulting a Lactation Consultant: If oversupply continues to be a challenge, seeking help from an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) can provide personalized strategies and support. They can offer guidance tailored to the mother’s specific situation.
Conclusion
Managing breast milk oversupply is essential for both the mother’s comfort and the baby’s feeding experience. By employing techniques such as adjusting feeding positions, utilizing hand expression, and considering block feeding, mothers can effectively reduce their milk supply. If challenges persist, professional support from a lactation consultant can be invaluable in navigating this common breastfeeding issue.

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.

How many ounces is 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.

How do I stop oversupply of breast milk?

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.

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.

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).

How many ounces a day is oversupply?

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

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.

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.

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.

How to reduce breast milk supply naturally?

Occasionally express milk to relieve breast engorgement.

1. Use herbs. Research suggests that there are a few herbs that may help reduce your milk supply.
2. Apply cabbage. Cabbage may help soothe engorged breasts as you stop breastfeeding.
3. Take birth control.