Oversupply

Managing an oversupply of breast milk can be challenging, leading to issues like engorgement, fast letdown, and discomfort for both mom and baby. Here are some strategies to help balance supply:

1. Block Feeding (Best for Reducing Supply)

• Feed from one breast per feeding session (or even for 2–3 feedings in a row). Only feed from the one breast over the duration of 4 hours, then you can offer the next breast, and repeat this process.

• This signals your body to slow production while ensuring your baby gets fatty hindmilk.

• Switch breasts only when the first one feels empty or soft.

2. Nurse in a Laid-Back Position

• Reclining while nursing helps slow the milk flow.

• Let gravity reduce the force of a strong letdown.

• Side-lying nursing can also help.

3. Express a Little Milk Before Nursing (But Not Too Much)

• Hand express or pump just enough to relieve pressure before feeding.

• Avoid fully emptying the breast, as that signals your body to produce more.

• Avoid using a breast pump if you can, as this nipple stimulation can increase oxyotic and release more breastmilk. The breatpump provides more direct nipple stimulation that hand expressing, which is back behind the aerolea.

4. Burp Baby More Often

• A fast flow can cause gulping and gas.

• Frequent burping during and after feeds helps with digestion.

5. Use Cold Compresses After Feeding

• Apply cold packs (or chilled cabbage leaves) for 15-20 minutes to reduce swelling.

• Helps ease engorgement and discomfort.

• Do not fall asleep with cold compress/ice pack on your body!

6. Avoid Extra Pumping (Unless Needed for Comfort)

• Pumping too much increases supply, making the problem worse.

• If you must pump, do it just enough to relieve pressure. A few minutes at the most is all is needed.

7. Try Lecithin for Plugged Ducts

• If oversupply leads to clogged ducts, sunflower lecithin can help prevent them.

8. Work with a Lactation Consultant

• If oversupply causes discomfort or feeding difficulties, a lactation consultant can offer personalised strategies.

Feeding baby with a fast let down/spraying flow

• Keep a small cloth to hand, and when baby starts to look overwhelmed by milk or about to pull off, use the cloth to soak up the let down.

More information on oversupply through ABA

If you are finding your supply difficult to manage and having issues when feeding baby, we can lead you through some tips and tricks to make feeding comfortable for both of you.