Oversupply

It’s common in the early weeks of breastfeeding to make more milk than your baby can easily manage. For most mums, milk supply settles down after about six weeks to match your baby’s needs. 

But sometimes you might keep making too much, even as your baby gets older. 

• Your breasts still feel lumpy and tight, even after feeds.
• Your baby often gags or gulps at the start of a feed and may not want the second breast.
• Your baby gains weight quickly.
• They may be extra fussy or crying between feeds, especially in the evening.
• You're changing more heavy, wet nappies than usual.
• Your baby has a poo at nearly every feed (or more) and it's often green, frothy or explosive.

Several things can contribute to making too much milk.  

• Switching sides too frequently during feeds.
• Your baby crying a lot and wanting to suck for comfort, which increases milk supply.
• Expressing more milk than your baby needs. Sometimes mums are told to express in the early days to build supply but this can lead to oversupply if continued.
• Using a silicone milk catcher for leaking milk or to relieve fullness. These can remove more milk than would naturally leak, especially with prolonged use.
• Taking medicines or herbal products that increase milk supply. 

Some mums naturally make more milk—there’s a wide range of what’s normal.

If you think you have an oversupply, consider the situations above and make changes if needed. Then try these gentle strategies:

• Feed from one breast at each feed. If the other breast feels uncomfortable, express just enough to relieve the pressure.
• If your baby hasn’t settled and it’s less than an hour since the last feed, offer the same breast again.
• Try ideas for feeding with a fast flow—such as different positions or letting the initial milk flow into a cloth before latching your baby.
• Catch leaking milk with a simple container, cloth, or breast pad instead of a silicone milk catcher.
• If your baby needs comfort but isn’t hungry, try soothing techniques like rocking, cuddling, singing, massage, or a warm bath. Carrying your baby in a sling or taking them for a walk can also help. You can offer a clean finger or a dummy for sucking comfort.

Oversupply can feel overwhelming, but with a few adjustments, you can help your baby feed more comfortably and keep your breasts healthy. If you need support, reach out to an ABA breastfeeding counsellor on the National Breastfeeding Helpline.