Everyone says it’s not common to be unable to produce enough breastmilk.

Low milk supply is rare, right?

Actually, we don’t have a solid number that defines how common low milk supply is. And we don’t need this number to learn how to not dismiss parents’ concerns and verify milk supply is meeting baby’s needs.

What we do know though is that the majority of parents can produce adequate milk with the right supports and plans in place. That doesn't make low supply rare, and it never makes it okay to dismiss a parent’s concerns based on a majority.

You can learn more about low supply including true low supply vs. perceived low supply here.

What should you do if you are concerned about your milk supply?

Contact a lactation consultant and get help! Milk supply concerns should always be evaluated thoroughly so that you can either rest easy knowing your milk supply is fine or be given your options to improve and manage your situation. Low supply doesn’t ever have to mean the end of breastfeeding, we have a lot of options to address concerns while maintaining your breastfeeding relationship.

Is there a supplement I can take to make sure I make enough milk?

There are a lot of companies out there selling various supplements and herbs, called galactagogues, to increase milk supply. They have fun names and various combinations with beautiful labels and price tags to match their marketing. Parents discuss them so frequently you would think almost all parents had milk supply issues (which is not true!).

If there was a magic pill out there I would be the first to tell you, but it doesn't exist. Galactagogues need to be tailored to your situation in order to work well. You can either work with a knowledgeable lactation consultant or check out the Guide to Galactagogues I created to help you take that DIY approach to increasing your milk supply.

Download the Guide to Galactagogues

If I work with a lactation consultant for low supply, what should I expect in order to know my concerns are being addressed?

Evaluate your actual milk supply based on baby weight gain and diapers, feeding habits, and pump output when applicable.
Evaluate your breastfeeding management to determine if you are getting enough stimulation and emptying your breasts frequently enough.
Evaluate for the possibility of a tongue tie if you are nursing, this is a common culprit of milk supply issues.
Evaluate your pumping technique and flange fit.
Evaluate your breast anatomy.
Consider bloodwork recommendations if you have low supply that is either not easily explained or corrected.
Consider galactagogues that are appropriate for your situation after other avenues of correction have been taken (you can’t use galactagogues to make up for infrequent or incomplete milk removal).

Can low milk supply be handled virtually?

Absolutely! We have to use a little creativity to make up for the lack of hands on evaluation of your infant’s oral skills and your breast anatomy, but there are tools designed to facilitate this in a virtual environment. Virtual care easily lends itself to working together over an extended period of time as most supply issues take some time to work on. If you are ready to figure out your supply concerns you can book here for a convenient consultation.