Why is my milk supply decreasing?

It can feel unsettling when your milk supply suddenly seems to decrease.
Perhaps your breasts feel softer, or your baby seems more unsettled than before.

It's completely natural to think:
Is my milk production decreasing – and is there something wrong?

For many, it's a temporary phase, and there's often an explanation.

Milk production changes over time

At the beginning of the breastfeeding period, breasts often feel engorged and full.

Over time, production becomes more stable and adapted to your baby. This means that breasts may feel softer – without necessarily having less milk.

It can therefore feel like a decrease, even though the body is actually functioning as it should.

The most common causes

There can be several reasons why milk production may seem lower.

It is often related to:

• fewer feeds
• shorter feeds
• changes in the baby's needs

Milk production is demand-driven. If the baby nurses less, the body also produces less.

When the baby changes behaviour

Babies change quickly.

Some become more efficient eaters and spend less time at the breast. Others become more distracted and unlatch more easily.

This can give the impression that there is less milk – even though the baby is actually getting what is needed.

Stress and fatigue play a role

Your body is affected by how you feel.

Fatigue, stress, and lack of breaks can affect both the let-down reflex and the perceived milk supply.

This does not mean that production disappears – but that the body may need more rest.

What can you do yourself?

If you experience a decrease, you can support your body by increasing stimulation.

It can help to:

• offer the breast more often
• let the baby finish feeding
• have skin-to-skin contact

This sends a signal to the body to produce more milk.

When should you be concerned?

If your baby:

• is not gaining weight
• has fewer wet diapers
• seems persistently unsettled

...then it's important to have it assessed.

Otherwise, changes in milk production are often completely normal.

The most important thing: trust the process

Milk production is dynamic. It constantly adapts to your baby – and this means it will also change along the way.

When you support your body and respond to your baby's needs, production will, in most cases, find its balance again.

Is it too little milk – or just a phase?

Many become concerned that they have too little milk when production changes. But often, it's a natural part of the breastfeeding journey. If you want to be completely sure about the signs, you can read more here: https://mybelly.dk/blogs/amning/for-lidt-maelk

Sources:
Sundhed.dk