What causes an oversupply of breast milk?

Understanding the Causes of Breast Milk Oversupply
Breastfeeding is often celebrated for its numerous benefits, but for some mothers, the experience can be complicated by an oversupply of breast milk. This condition, while seemingly advantageous, can lead to discomfort for both mother and child. Understanding the underlying causes of this phenomenon is crucial for effective management and ensuring a positive breastfeeding experience.
Natural Variability in Milk Production
One of the primary reasons for an oversupply of breast milk is simply natural variability in lactation. Some women may produce more milk than their infants require, particularly in the early weeks postpartum. This initial surge in milk production is a normal physiological response as the body adjusts to the demands of breastfeeding. However, for some, this oversupply can persist beyond the initial weeks, leading to challenges.
Feeding Patterns and Their Impact
Feeding practices play a significant role in regulating milk supply. When mothers adhere to a strict feeding schedule rather than responding to their baby’s hunger cues, it can inadvertently lead to oversupply. This is because milk production is largely driven by demand; the more frequently a baby feeds, the more milk is produced. Conversely, if a mother pumps excessively to build a supply, she may stimulate her breasts to produce more milk than her baby needs.
Moreover, using techniques such as milk catchers or frequent pumping can exacerbate the issue. These practices can result in more milk being removed from the breasts than the infant requires, reinforcing the cycle of oversupply.
The Role of Infant Feeding Behavior
Infant feeding behavior can also contribute to oversupply. For instance, if a baby has a poor latch, they may feed more frequently in an attempt to get the volume they need, which can signal the mother’s body to produce even more milk. This can create a feedback loop where the mother’s supply continues to increase, leading to discomfort and potential feeding difficulties for the infant.
Psychological and Physiological Factors
In some cases, there may not be a clear cause for oversupply. This phenomenon, sometimes referred to as Hyperlactation Syndrome, can occur without any identifiable triggers. It highlights the complexity of lactation, where individual physiological differences can lead to significant variations in milk production.
Conclusion
An oversupply of breast milk can arise from a combination of natural physiological responses, feeding practices, and infant behavior. While it may seem beneficial at first glance, it can lead to discomfort and complications for both mother and child. Understanding these causes is essential for mothers to manage their breastfeeding journey effectively, ensuring that both they and their infants can thrive.

How do you fix oversupply of breastmilk?

Block feeding ensures that one breast always contains leftover milk. This will trigger your breasts to reduce their milk production, and should gradually resolve oversupply of milk.

What is the cause of excess supply?

It indicates that there is more supply available in the market than there is effective demand from buyers. Excess supply can be caused by several factors: Decrease in Demand: If there is a decrease in consumer demand for a product or service, while the supply remains constant, it can lead to excess supply.

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 much milk is considered an 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.

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 causes high production of breast milk?

Some breastfeeding parents naturally produce more milk due to their genetics. You may also be at greater risk for hyperlactation syndrome if you have hyperprolactinemia. Certain herbal supplements may also affect your milk supply.

Which vitamin is lacking in breast milk?

Overall, human breast milk has been found to be low in certain nutrients in developed countries: vitamin D, iodine, iron, and vitamin K. Additional nutrient deficiencies have been documented in resource-poor countries: vitamin A, vitamin B 12, zinc, and vitamin B 1/thiamin.

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.

Why is my milk supply suddenly so high?

This is usually called oversupply. Some babies cope very well with a generous milk supply; however, others will be unhappy and uncomfortable even though they are gaining weight and appearing to thrive. Oversupply can also make feeding uncomfortable and increase the risk of mastitis.

What is the reason of oversupply?

Oversupply is an excessive amount of a product that is the result of when demand is lower than supply, resulting in a surplus.