A drop in milk supply can be caused by a variety of factors related to breastfeeding practices, maternal health, lifestyle, and hormonal changes. Key causes include:
- Insufficient breastfeeding or pumping frequency : Milk production operates on a supply-and-demand basis, so if the baby is not nursing or pumping often enough, milk supply can decrease
- Stress and anxiety : High stress levels, especially in the early postpartum weeks, raise cortisol hormones that can dramatically reduce milk supply
- Hormonal changes : Changes due to menstrual cycles, birth control pills (especially those containing estrogen), pregnancy, or postpartum hormonal shifts can lower milk production temporarily
- Baby’s feeding habits : Ineffective latch, infrequent feeding, or starting solids (which reduces breastfeeding) can cause supply to drop
- Maternal health issues : Illness, fatigue, dehydration, certain medications, smoking, and medical conditions like thyroid problems, PCOS, or past breast surgery can reduce supply
- Supplementing with formula : Using formula in addition to breastfeeding can reduce the baby’s demand at the breast, leading to decreased milk production
- Poor nutrition and hydration : Not eating enough calories or drinking enough fluids can negatively impact milk supply
- Other factors : Retained placental fragments, severe postpartum hemorrhage, or anatomical issues in the baby (e.g., tongue-tie) can also affect milk production
Addressing these causes typically involves increasing breastfeeding or pumping frequency, managing stress, ensuring good hydration and nutrition, reviewing medications with healthcare providers, and seeking lactation consultant support if needed
