Can Breast Milk Run Out? Discover the Causes and Solutions

Source: Rohap via freepik.com

Breast milk is the main source of nutrition for babies, including protein, fat, vitamins, minerals, and components that support the immune system. Because it plays a very important role, many mothers start to wonder: can breast milk run out?

This question naturally comes up, especially when breast milk production feels lower or not enough to meet the baby’s needs. A decrease in supply can happen in certain conditions and often creates worry that breast milk will stop completely.

To understand this issue, this article will explain whether breast milk can really run out, what causes production to decrease, and how mothers can manage it safely and effectively.

Can Breast Milk Run Out?

Source: makistock via freepik.com

The question of whether breast milk can run out has a conditional answer. Breast milk can decrease when problems arise for the mother or the baby, yet mothers can still manage this as long as both are still in the breastfeeding phase.

However, the body naturally begins to stop producing breast milk gradually within five to seven days after the mother starts weaning, although some may need more time or even less time until breast milk no longer comes out at all.

So can breast milk run out? Yes, after a breastfeeding or pumping session, breast milk may run out before the body produces it again. But when it comes to stopping production completely, this happens naturally over time when the baby is no longer breastfeeding or when the mother stops pumping.

Signs That Breast Milk Supply Is Decreasing

Source: alexkich via freepik.com

Breast milk production naturally fluctuates. Sometimes breast milk flows abundantly so mothers can store a supply, but at other times the amount decreases. The causes of this decrease will be discussed in the next section.

Before that, let’s understand the signs that indicate a decrease in breast milk supply. These signs appear in the mother’s body and also in the baby.

4 Signs in Mothers

In the mother’s body, a decrease in breast milk supply appears through the four signs below.

• First, the breasts feel less full
• Second, the let down reflex does not appear, which is the reflex that releases breast milk when the nerves in the breast get proper stimulation to signal oxytocin release
• Third, the result of the pumping session decreases
• Fourth, the nipples feel sore or chafed

When these signs appear, they may show that breast milk production has decreased.

5 Signs in Babies

Not only seen in mothers, a decrease in breast milk supply also appears through the baby’s condition. Some signs mothers can observe include the following.

• First, the baby urinates or defecates less often
• Second, the urine appears darker
• Third, the baby does not gain weight or even loses weight
• Fourth, the baby becomes fussy and restless during breastfeeding
• Fifth, the baby breastfeeds more often but never seems full

A decrease in breast milk supply can be seen through these five signs, and if this continues for too long it can create new risks related to growth and development.

Mapping the Causes of Decreased Breast Milk Supply

Source: Freepik via freepik.com

There are always causes behind the challenges mothers face, including a decrease in breast milk production. Causes come from both the mother and the baby, so they need to be mapped and observed carefully for early detection and proper solutions.

From the mother’s side, decreased breast milk production can come from stress and fatigue, insufficient fluid intake, an unhealthy diet, the use of hormonal contraceptives, and health conditions that disrupt the body’s systems.

From the baby’s side, low breast milk intake can come from tongue tie, weak sucking ability or poor latch, an irregular breastfeeding schedule, and the use of pacifiers or feeding bottles with shapes that differ from the natural nipple, leading to nipple confusion.

3 Ways to Manage Low Breast Milk Supply

If low breast milk supply continues without proper action, it can affect both the baby and the mother. The baby may struggle to reach growth milestones and mothers may feel upset when the baby does not grow optimally.

Because of that, there are at least three ways to manage low breast milk supply.

1. Try to Increase Breast Milk Production

To increase breast milk production, mothers can do several simple steps.

For example, breastfeed more often or increase pumping frequency. This gives the body a signal that more breast milk is needed, which stimulates increased production. Mothers can also pump after breastfeeding sessions to ensure the breasts are completely empty.

Furthermore, gentle breast massage before, during, and after breastfeeding sessions can help stimulate greater breast milk production.

Support these efforts with a nutritious diet. Some foods and drinks are known to support breast milk production because of their nutrients and effects on the body. Then make sure to get enough rest and minimize stress. This helps the body maintain an ideal condition for producing breast milk optimally.

2. Ensure the Baby Breastfeeds Effectively

Effective breastfeeding means the baby receives breast milk based on their needs. Mothers can ensure correct positioning and proper latch so the baby receives enough intake.

Avoid using pacifiers or feeding bottles with teats shaped differently from natural nipples because they can cause nipple confusion. If mothers must use these baby care products, choose teats that closely resemble natural shapes.

Mothers should not hesitate to check the baby’s oral condition if previous attempts have not shown results. Tongue tie or tongue-tie must be managed according to the doctor’s recommendations.

3. Consult a Doctor or Lactation Consultant

The final method is consulting a doctor or lactation consultant who focuses on managing breastfeeding issues.

A consultation helps mothers receive proper support based on their condition so they can return to an ideal state for providing quality breast milk.

Mothers can also confirm whether any medical conditions exist that require more serious treatment.

Remember to stay calm and confident while facing this situation. Joining communities may help mothers gain other useful insights or receive the support they need.

Support Your Breastfeeding Journey with the Best Tools from Hegen

A decrease in breast milk supply is normal, yet it still needs proper management so production can return to stable levels. Besides maintaining a healthy lifestyle, mothers can support the breastfeeding process with effective pumping techniques using high-quality breast pumps from Hegen.

Hegen provides a selection of electric breast pumps and manual pumps that you can adjust to your needs. The practical breast milk storage system, with containers and lids that you can attach and replace easily, helps maintain the cleanliness and quality of breast milk so the essential nutrients for your little one stay protected.

I hope this explanation answers the question “Can Breast Milk Run Out” and gives clear guidance for mothers. To support every stage of your little one’s growth and development, always trust safe and high quality products for babies and breastfeeding mothers from Hegen.

 

References:  

• Halodoc. ASI Eksklusif. https://www.halodoc.com/kesehatan/asi-eksklusif.
• Alodokter. Menelusuri Penyebab ASI Berkurang dan Cara Meningkatkannya. https://www.alodokter.com/menelusuri-penyebab-asi-berkurang-dan-cara-meningkatkannya#:~:text=Tanda%2DTanda%20ASI%20Berkurang,tidak%20merembes%20hingga%20ke%20pakaian.
• HaiBunda. Kapan Produksi ASI Mulai Berkurang? Ciri dan Penyebab ASI Sedikit. https://www.haibunda.com/menyusui/20230413224311-54-302573/kapan-produksi-asi-mulai-berkurang-ciri-dan-penyebab-asi-sedikit.
• Prenagen. Penyebab Asi Berkurang dan Cara Mengatasinya. https://www.prenagen.com/id/waspada-inilah-penyebab-asi-berkurang-dan-cara-mengatasinya.
• KlikDokter. Let-Down Reflex Saat Menyusui: Apa Itu?. https://www.klikdokter.com/ibu-anak/ibu-menyusui/let-down-reflex-saat-menyusui-apa-itu.
• Siloam Hospitals. Ini 7 Cara Menghentikan Produksi ASI saat Menyapih Anak. https://www.siloamhospitals.com/informasi-siloam/artikel/cara-menghentikan-produksi-asi.