Breastfeeding Facts!!

Although many women complain about having low milk supply, 95% are merely perception of insufficient milk supply:

1. Very common (50% of breastfeeding mothers)
2. Common cause for weaning
3. Only about 5% of women will not produce adequate amounts of milk for their baby

Reasons a mother may falsely believe her milk supply is Insufficient are as follows:

1. Lack of education about normal breastfeeding patterns and behavior
2. Soft breasts
3. Growth spurts that instigate need for frequent nursing
4. The ease with which the infant eats from a bottle
5. Inability to express large volumes of milk
6. Does not experience MER or let-down
7. Frequently fussy infant - But gaining weight normally

Less common causes of Insufficient Milk Supply (the 5% of women who are affected):

1. Maternal hypothyroidism
2. Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
3. Previous breast surgery
4. Breast hypoplasia
5. Sheehan’s Syndrome
6. Retained placenta

Having said that, it can be concluded that with good lactation management practices, almost all women can successfully breastfeed their child. Please get help early when problem occurs from a Lactation Counselor or Lactation Consultant. Go to www.ilca.org and search under "Find a Lactation Consultant" Directory

Source: “Management of Common Breastfeeding Situations”, American Academy of Pediatrics