How to treat oversupply of breast milk?

Understanding Oversupply of Breast Milk
For many new mothers, breastfeeding is a journey filled with both joy and challenges. One such challenge that can arise is the oversupply of breast milk, also known as hyperlactation syndrome. This condition occurs when a mother produces more milk than her baby can consume, leading to discomfort for both mother and child. Symptoms can include engorgement, painful breasts, and a baby who struggles to latch or manage the flow of milk effectively.
Identifying Oversupply
Recognizing the signs of oversupply is crucial. Symptoms may include a feeling of fullness in the breasts, leaking milk, and a baby who appears to choke or gag during feedings due to the fast flow of milk. It’s important to differentiate between oversupply and other issues like breast engorgement or a rapid let-down reflex, as the treatment approaches may differ.
Strategies for Managing Oversupply
Once oversupply is identified, several strategies can help manage and reduce milk production:
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 feeding better. Feeding in a reclined position or lying down can also slow the flow, making it easier for the baby to latch and feed comfortably.
2. Pumping Techniques: If the breasts are overly full, mothers can consider hand expressing or pumping just enough milk to relieve pressure before latching the baby. This can help reduce the initial fast flow that may overwhelm the baby.
3. Feeding Frequency: Increasing the frequency of feedings can also help regulate milk supply. By allowing the baby to feed more often, the body can adjust to produce the right amount of milk for the baby’s needs.
4. Mindful Feeding: Paying attention to the baby’s cues during feeding is essential. If the baby seems sleepy or disinterested, it may be beneficial to allow them to suck gently, which can help reduce milk flow and subsequently lower production.
5. Consider Milk Donation: For mothers who find themselves with a significant oversupply, donating excess milk can be a fulfilling option. Many mothers in need of breast milk turn to formal or informal milk donation networks, providing a valuable resource for those unable to breastfeed.
When to Seek Help
If oversupply leads to persistent discomfort or feeding difficulties for the baby, it may be time to consult a lactation consultant or healthcare provider. They can offer personalized strategies and support to help manage the situation effectively.
In conclusion, while an oversupply of breast milk can present challenges, understanding the condition and implementing effective management strategies can help mothers navigate this aspect of breastfeeding. With the right approach, both mother and baby can enjoy a more comfortable and fulfilling breastfeeding experience.

How many ounces is considered oversupply?

4-5 oz
An oversupply of breast milk generally refers to a mother who is able to nurse her infant, or multiples, and is still able to produce a significant amount of breast milk (more than 4-5 oz) in a pump session after a feeding.

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).

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.

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.

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.

How many oz of breast milk is an oversupply?

If average is three to five ounces combined and you are getting that from each breast, you have an oversupply. If you are getting more than five ounces from each breast (and, ahem, you don’t have twins) then you have, let’s call it, an aggressive oversupply.

How do you solve oversupply?

How is breastmilk oversupply treated?

1. Feed your baby from only one breast at each feed.
2. Space feeds out — at least 2 ½ hours apart.
3. At your next feed, change to your other breast.
4. Continue this pattern for a few days.
5. You might need to hand express a small amount from the unused breast to relieve pressure or discomfort.

How to fix breast milk oversupply?

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 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.

How do you deal with too much breast milk?

Reduced stimulation helps decrease the volume of milk in each breast. You can also gradually reduce pumping volumes over several days or weeks. Stopping pumping abruptly can lead to clogged ducts or mastitis, so work with your healthcare provider to gradually reduce how often or how much you’re pumping.