What causes insufficient breast milk?
Aug 27, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
In general, insufficient milk supply may be caused by improper breastfeeding posture, stress and anxiety, medication effects, mastitis, or blocked milk ducts. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive appropriate treatment under the guidance of a healthcare professional. In daily life, maintain adequate fluid intake by ensuring sufficient consumption of water, soups, or other non-caffeinated, non-alcoholic beverages each day.
In general, insufficient breast milk may be caused by improper breastfeeding posture, stress and anxiety, medication effects, mastitis, or blocked mammary ducts. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive appropriate treatment under the guidance of a professional physician. Specific analysis is as follows:
1. Improper breastfeeding posture
During breastfeeding, if the baby fails to suck effectively or lacks sufficient sucking strength, milk within the mammary glands cannot be adequately emptied. This inhibits the secretion of prolactin, thereby reducing milk production. It is advisable to consult a professional postnatal care specialist or obstetrician to learn correct breastfeeding techniques and positions, ensuring effective sucking by the baby and promoting milk flow.
2. Stress and anxiety
Stress and anxiety trigger the release of stress hormones in the body, which can suppress prolactin secretion and subsequently reduce milk production. Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, and meditation may help lower stress levels.
3. Medication effects
Certain medications, such as contraceptives and antidepressants, may inhibit mammary gland milk secretion by affecting hormonal balance, leading to insufficient milk supply. During lactation, it is best to avoid medications that may suppress milk production, or adjust medication use under a doctor's guidance, or consider alternative feeding methods.
4. Mastitis
Mastitis may be caused by milk stasis or bacterial infection. It leads to local redness, swelling, and pain; the inflammatory response can damage mammary ducts and alveoli, impairing milk production and flow, resulting in insufficient milk supply. Symptoms may include breast redness, swelling, fever, and pain. Treatment may include antibiotics such as amoxicillin capsules, cefixime dispersible tablets, or roxithromycin capsules, as prescribed by a doctor.
5. Blocked mammary ducts
Blocked mammary ducts may result from abnormal duct development, high milk viscosity, or duct infections. Blockage causes milk accumulation in the breast, stimulating reduced milk secretion and causing symptoms such as breast pain, swelling, and fever. Techniques such as massage and warm compresses can help restore duct patency. Medical intervention may be necessary for professional duct clearance if needed.
Maintain adequate fluid intake daily by drinking sufficient water, soups, or other non-caffeinated, non-alcoholic beverages.
