Low Milk Supply

Low milk supply can be a common concern for many mothers. For some, it may be perceived as low supply due to misinformation, or unrealistic ideas of what a normal supply is. For some though, they has truly tried everything they know and still are producing only small amounts of milk each day. They may reach out to their doctor or friend, but likely get no valid advice, if any at all. Their concerns often are diminished and unsupported. Formula supplementation is often a catch all recommendation regardless of feeding goals, or desire to understand the underlying cause of her low milk supply.

If we are looking at true case of low milk supply, there are several areas that should be evaluated and considered. They may include a breast exam, a medical history for mother, delivery intervention/history, current breastfeeding routine, infant oral function, flanges and pumps if partially or exclusively pumping, and bloodwork in some cases. Often, there are several factors at play. We need all the pieces to help solve the puzzle.

Can all causes of low milk supply be corrected? Unfortunately, no, they can not. However, a vast majority can be. Much more often than mothers are led to believe and who are quickly told “I'm sorry, some women just don't make enough milk.

That doesn’t mean the solution is always clear and simple. It doesn’t mean all professionals, or even all IBCLCs, are capable and willing to work along side mothers navigating this journey. Not everyone can focus and pursue further education in every area of health or lactation. However, a mothers care should not be less than because a professional is not equipped.

Mothers deserve an answer as to why her body is not doing the job she expected it be to able to do.

She deserves to be educated on optimal health and how it may be impacted her breastfeeding journey.

She deserves to understand why this is happening and what steps she can take to improve it.

She deserves to have someone walk through this journey with her and support her goals.

You may be well intended when you tell her “its okay if you don’t make enough milk, I didn’t either” or “I fed by baby formula and they are just fine” and you aren’t wrong, but you’re also not truly being supportive or validating her feelings or concerns. To really be there for the mother, help her find a provider, who care, who is education, and who will meet here where she is at.

If you feel you are struggling with low milk supply, I am here for you. As an RN and IBCLC, I am here to provide professional, comprehensive evidences based care. I’m here to help you put the pieces of the puzzle together, to optimize and understand your health, and maximize your milk supply if that is your goal. I hope you will give me the please of walking along side you, your friend,  or your family member to provider them with the compassion and support they deserve.

-Haley Willson RN, BSN, IBCLC