Insufficient glandular tissue (breast hypoplasia)

Most mums make enough milk for their babies. But for some, their breasts don’t produce quite enough milk. One reason can be something called insufficient glandular tissue (IGT) also known as breast hypoplasia.

Glandular tissue is the part of the breast that makes milk. Hypoplastic breasts don’t have enough of this glandular tissue. It’s not the size of your breasts that’s important but their shape, placement and symmetry.   

You might have IGT if you have several of the following:

• Breasts are widely spaced (more than a 4cm apart)
• One breast is much larger than the other
• Tubular-shaped breasts (narrow base, long shape)
• Very large or bulbous areolae (as if attached onto the breast)
• No breast changes during pregnancy, after birth or both.

Some mums who have one or more of these signs go on to make a full milk supply for their baby. Others find that, even with all the information and support, they don't make enough and need to supplement. 

• Make a special plan just for you. Talk with an ABA counsellor or a lactation consultant.
• Think about expressing your colostrum before your baby is born
• Try to get breastfeeding off to the best start possible with lots of skin-to-skin contact with your baby and early, frequent feeds.
• Learn about positioning and attachment.
• Learn about options such as syringe or cup feeding and donor milk.
• Talk to your doctor about whether a galactagogue may help to increase your supply. 

You may find that even though you’ve tried everything, you still need to supplement. Apart from formula you could also consider donor breastmilk if available. The amount you supplement will depend on how much milk you make. You can give this extra milk using : 

• A bottle (see information on paced bottle feeding) 

• A cup 

• A supply line - a device which lets baby get a supplement as they suck at the breast.

Coming to terms with not being able to fully breastfeed can take time. It’s okay to feel a range of emotions about your experience and to give yourself time to grieve the breastfeeding journey you imagined.

Try talking with other mums, learning about what newborns usually do, and getting help from a ABA breastfeeding counsellor or lactation consultant. Share what matters most to you, so you can make a feeding plan that works for you and your baby. With support, many mums achieve their goals and have a fulfilling breastfeeding relationship. 

© Australian Breastfeeding Association December 2025