Why does my 4 month old milk supply drop?

Understanding the Drop in Milk Supply at Four Months
For many new mothers, the journey of breastfeeding can be both rewarding and challenging. One common concern that arises around the four-month mark is a noticeable drop in milk supply. This phenomenon can be attributed to several factors, including hormonal changes, feeding patterns, and external stressors.
Hormonal Changes
Around the four-month mark, many mothers experience fluctuations in their milk supply due to hormonal shifts. After the initial postpartum period, the body begins to adjust its hormone levels, which can impact milk production. Specifically, the balance of prolactin and oxytocin—hormones crucial for milk production and ejection—may change, leading to a perceived decrease in supply. This adjustment is a normal part of the breastfeeding journey, as the body learns to regulate milk production based on the baby’s needs.
Feeding Patterns
Another significant factor influencing milk supply is the frequency and effectiveness of breastfeeding. As babies grow, their feeding patterns often change. They may become more efficient at breastfeeding, which can lead to shorter feeding sessions. If a baby is not nursing as frequently or effectively, this can result in less milk being removed from the breast, signaling the body to produce less milk. Experts recommend that infants should ideally breastfeed 8 to 14 times in a 24-hour period during the early months to maintain a healthy supply.
Stress and Sleep Deprivation
The demands of new parenthood can also take a toll on milk supply. Stress and sleep deprivation are common among new mothers and can significantly impact lactation. When a mother is stressed or not getting enough rest, her body may produce less milk. It’s essential for mothers to find ways to manage stress and prioritize self-care, as this can help support their breastfeeding goals.
Dehydration and Nutrition
Hydration and nutrition play crucial roles in milk production. If a mother is not drinking enough fluids or consuming a balanced diet, her milk supply may suffer. Staying well-hydrated and ensuring adequate caloric intake can help maintain a healthy milk supply.
Conclusion
In summary, a drop in milk supply around four months postpartum can be attributed to hormonal changes, shifts in feeding patterns, stress, and nutritional factors. Mothers experiencing this issue should remember that fluctuations in milk supply are common and often temporary. Engaging in regular breastfeeding, managing stress, and maintaining proper hydration and nutrition can help support milk production during this transitional phase. If concerns persist, consulting with a lactation consultant or healthcare provider can provide additional guidance and support.

How breastfeeding changes at 4 months?

As babies get older they become much more efficient feeders, and a feed that may previously have lasted around half an hour may now take a significantly shorter time. However, the distractibility that starts at around four months for some babies may mean breastfeeds become more sporadic, especially during the day.

Does milk supply decrease at 4 months?

This is a common time to see breast or bottle refusal from a baby that was previously eating seemingly without issue. This 3-4 month timeframe is also a common time for breastfeeders to report a dip in supply because the less-than-optimal feeding finally catches up with them.

What is the average milk supply for a 4 month old?

For infants between 1-6 months old, the average is around 750 mL/25.36 oz a day. A single breastfeeding session might produce between 54-234 mL/1.82-7.91 oz of milk. A mom might nurse between 4-13 times every day depending on the baby’s appetite, how much milk is removed each session, and other external factors.

Why is my 4 month old drinking less milk?

Reasons for baby not drinking enough
Baby is too tired to feed effectively. Baby has poor appetite. Baby is prevented from effectively accessing the food (something is making it difficult for her to drink enough). Baby has impaired ability to suck.

What is the 4 month breastfeeding crisis?

4-month crisis (or developmental leap)
From the age of 4 months, babies are more likely to wake up at night. During the night feeds, they are now more demanding and nervous. They suckle every few minutes and ask for the breast while crying.

What is the bottle regression at 4 months?

At birth, babies have a natural reflexive suck (sucking automatically at the breast, bottle, pacifier), but this starts to shift between the age of 2-4 months to a voluntary suck. Meaning, that if bottle feeding is unpleasant, difficult or painful, they may start to reject the bottle around this age.

How much breast milk should I produce at 4 months?

~ 3 WEEKS TO 6 MONTHS
During this time, your supply will settle at around 24-32 ounces per day. Some babies need more, others less. Your supply doesn’t need to keep increasing forever.

What is the 4 month regression breastfeeding?

As babies get older they become much more efficient feeders, and a feed that may previously have lasted around half an hour may now take a significantly shorter time. However, the distractibility that starts at around four months for some babies may mean breastfeeds become more sporadic, especially during the day.

How can I increase my milk supply after 4 months?

How can I increase my breastmilk supply?

1. Ensure that your baby is attaching well and removing milk efficiently from the breast.
2. Be prepared to feed your baby more often — breastfeed on demand every 2 to 3 hours and at least 8 times in 24 hours.
3. Use both breasts at each feeding; if you can, offer each breast twice.

Why did my milk supply suddenly drop 4 months pumping?

If your milk supply has dropped, add additional feedings, encourage your little one to breastfeed for longer than usual, and/or pump more frequently. Take a nursing vacation. A few low-key days spent skin-to-skin with your little one, nursing on demand, can help rescue a dropping milk supply.