How to reduce 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. This condition can lead to discomfort for the mother and feeding difficulties for the baby, including issues like choking or excessive gas. Understanding how to manage and reduce this oversupply is crucial for both the health of the mother and the baby.
Identifying Oversupply
The first step in addressing oversupply is recognizing the signs. Mothers may notice symptoms such as engorgement, leaking milk, or a baby who struggles to latch due to the forceful flow of milk. Additionally, babies may exhibit signs of discomfort during feeding, such as coughing, sputtering, or pulling away from the breast.
Strategies to Reduce Oversupply
Once oversupply is confirmed, several strategies can help manage and reduce milk production effectively:
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 them manage the intake better. Feeding while reclining or lying down can slow the flow and make the experience more comfortable for both mother and baby.
2. Pace Feeding: Implementing paced bottle feeding techniques can also be beneficial if the mother is using bottles. This method encourages the baby to suck and swallow at a natural pace, reducing the risk of overwhelming them with milk.
3. Hand Expression: Before breastfeeding, mothers can hand express or pump a small amount of milk to relieve pressure and reduce the initial fast flow. This can help the baby latch more comfortably and effectively.
4. Block Feeding: This technique involves feeding the baby from one breast for a set period (usually a few hours) before switching to the other breast. This method can help regulate milk production by allowing the breast to empty more completely, signaling the body to produce less milk.
5. Consulting a Lactation Expert: If oversupply persists, 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 and help troubleshoot any ongoing issues.
Conclusion
Managing breast milk oversupply is essential for ensuring a comfortable feeding experience for both mother and baby. By recognizing the signs and implementing strategies such as adjusting feeding positions, pacing feeds, and consulting with lactation experts, mothers can effectively reduce their milk supply and create a more harmonious breastfeeding relationship.

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.

How long does it take to reduce 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.

How many ounces is considered an oversupply of breast milk?

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.

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 do you fix oversupply of breast milk?

How to help oversupply

1. Rule out any health issues. Make sure your baby does not have a health issue that affects how they handle the milk flow.
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.

What is the 6 6 6 rule for breastmilk?

Or the 6-6-6 rule. Basically, breast milk is good at room temperature for 4 or 6 hours, in the refrigerator for 4 or 6 days, and in the freezer for 4 or 6 or 12 months.

How many ounces should I pump every 3 hours?

Some women respond better to pumps than others, and pumps don’t remove all the milk from your breasts in the same way a nursing baby does. If you are exclusively pumping, you will likely see about 2-4 ounces from pumping every 2-3 hours.

When does oversupply correct itself?

With oversupply, your milk may come out very fast. This can make it hard for your baby to swallow it. Oversupply usually only lasts for a few weeks after your baby is born.

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.