Is it normal for milk supply to decrease when sick?

Understanding Milk Supply and Illness
For breastfeeding mothers, the question of whether illness can impact milk supply is a common concern. The short answer is yes, being sick can indeed lead to a decrease in milk production for some individuals. This phenomenon is influenced by several factors related to both the physical and emotional state of the mother.
Factors Influencing Milk Supply During Illness
When a mother falls ill, her body undergoes various changes that can affect milk production. Dehydration is a significant factor; when sick, many people may not drink enough fluids, which is crucial for maintaining milk supply. Additionally, stress and fatigue from dealing with illness can also contribute to a decrease in milk production.
Moreover, certain medications taken to alleviate cold or flu symptoms, such as antihistamines, can further impact milk supply. These medications may have side effects that inhibit lactation, making it essential for mothers to consult healthcare professionals about safe options while breastfeeding.
Maintaining Milk Supply While Sick
Despite these challenges, it is important for mothers to continue breastfeeding or pumping as much as possible during illness. Experts recommend that mothers should aim to nurse whenever their baby shows interest. This practice not only helps maintain milk production but can also support a quicker return to normal supply levels once the mother recovers.
Staying hydrated and well-rested is crucial during this time. Mothers are encouraged to prioritize self-care, as a healthy body is better equipped to produce milk.
Conclusion
In summary, while it is normal for milk supply to decrease when a breastfeeding mother is sick, understanding the underlying causes can empower mothers to take proactive steps to maintain their milk production. By staying hydrated, managing stress, and continuing to breastfeed, mothers can navigate the challenges of illness while supporting their breastfeeding journey.

How do I fix my milk supply after being sick?

Encourage your baby to breastfeed frequently and offer both sides to give your breasts the message to boost milk production—you’ll probably notice a difference within just a day or two. You may find breastfeeding while lying down lets you rest and nurse 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.

Will milk supply come back after being sick?

Supply usually returns once you get better, especially if you continue to nurse on demand or pump frequently.

How long does it take for milk to come back after illness?

A short-term drop in milk supply is common after illness or surgery. Often the supply quickly returns to normal, either in hospital or soon after you get home. More frequent feeds and plenty of rest will rebuild your supply to meet your baby’s needs in a few days.

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.

Does 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.

How to increase milk supply after being sick?

“Sometimes — but not always! — being ill can be stressful on your body, and you may see a dip in your supply,” tells Lori Theisen, Nest Collaborative IBCLC. To recover and protect your milk supply, she advises that you “Stay hydrated, eat well, get lots of rest, and nurse on cue.”

Do soft breasts mean low milk supply?

You do not have low milk supply because your breasts feel softer than they used to. The excessive fullness we experience in the early days of breastfeeding is about vascular engorgement (blood and lymph) and it’s about the body inefficiently storing unnecessary amounts of milk between feeds.

Can being sick cause low milk supply?

Getting sick. Just catching a virus or bug such as the flu, a cold, or a stomach virus won’t decrease your milk supply. However, related symptoms such as fatigue, diarrhea, vomiting, or decreased appetite definitely can.

How to tell if milk is drying up?

What are the signs your milk supply is decreasing?

1. Not producing enough wet/dirty diapers each day. Especially in the first few weeks of life, the number of wet and dirty diapers your child produces is an indicator of the amount of food they’re getting.
2. Lack of weight gain.
3. Signs of dehydration.