Mothers who decide to breastfeed, pump or do a combo of both will likely face breastfeeding challenges at some point in their feeding journey. From low milk supply and inadequate milk expression to oversupply, there are common issues many lactating mothers experience. Read to uncover the top three breastfeeding supply issues and how to solve them. 

Here are 3 of the top issues when it comes to milk supply

Oversupply

Some mothers make too much milk and have overstimulated breasts.

Undersupply

Undersupply is very rare. However, if you exclusively pump or pump at work, your milk supply can dwindle over time. The pump doesn’t stimulate your milk producing hormones the same way as a baby.

Inadequate milk expression

If you don’t pump or feed regularly, due to lack of privacy or time, your body gets a signal to make less milk. Over time inadequate milk expression leads to undersupply. 

How to prevent low milk supply

To prevent an undersupply, limit these herbs that decrease milk production. Limit use while breastfeeding or use to decrease oversupply/ when weaning: 

• Oregano
• Parsley
• Peppermint
• Sage
• Spearmint
• Thyme
• Black walnut
• Chickweed
• Geranium 
• Lemon balm
• Periwinkle herb
• Sorrel
• Yarrow

How to increase milk supply without herbs or medication

Whether you're just starting out on your feeding journey or you're well into it, many mothers look to increase their milk supply. Here are some tried and true tips on how to do so without any herbs or medication:

• Avoid alcohol and smoking
• Practice hand expression or breast massage. 
• Practice power pumping: you can pump in between feeding sessions or continue pumping after the last drops of milk have been expressed.
• Try Kangaroo Care, also known as skin-to-skin with baby.
• Breastfeed on demand (or more if baby sleeps longer stretches)
• Offer both breasts for each feeding if baby seems interested. 
• Switch multiple times from breast to breast if the baby is tired/falls asleep too quickly
• Feed frequently, at least 8-12 times in 24 hours and at least every 3 hours at night.
• Rest, a balanced diet, and water are all very important. And also often very hard to do during times like these. Eating foods one-handed such as Nunona Mama Balls, while breastfeeding or using the time to catch up on drinking water will help a lot. You’re doing great and sharing your first meals with your child!