Is it really low supply?

It’s common to wonder if you’re making enough milk, but many worries about supply are based on myths, not facts.

If you’ve noticed changes in your baby’s behaviour or your breasts, here’s what might be going on.     

• Young babies feed very frequently, often 8 to 14 times or more in 24 hours.
• Some babies keep feeding frequently as they grow.
• Cluster feeding is normal. Many young babies have very frequent feeds closer together for a period of time, often in the late afternoon or evening.
• Babies may be fussy at the breast or come on an off. Sometimes this is just a slow let-down, not a supply issue. Find ways to help your milk to flow.
• Breastfeeding is soothing. Babies may want to feed for comfort, not just hunger.
• As babies get older, feeds may become shorter—they get better at breastfeeding.
• Weight gain for breastfed babies slows after the first few months, even if your baby is getting enough milk.
• If your baby won’t settle after a feed they may be uncomfortable, tired or just want to be held. A quick top-up breastfeed can help.
• Signs of too much milk can look like low supply. If your baby is fussy or feeds often for comfort, check for other signs of oversupply—like a lot of wet and dirty nappies and green, frothy or explosive poos.

• Breast size doesn't affect how much milk you can make. Small breasts can make plenty of milk. Your baby may just need to feed a little more often.

• After a few weeks, breasts often feel softer and less full—this is normal.

• If your breasts feel empty at the end of the day, that’s okay. When babies feed frequently and remove milk well, your breasts won’t feel big and full. 

• You don’t need to wait for your breasts to 'fill up'. The more your baby feeds, the more milk you make. 

• Not feeling your let-down reflex? Many mums don’t. Watch for your baby’s sucking patterns. A rhythmical suck-swallow pattern with regular swallowing means your let-down is working and your baby is getting milk.  

• Expressing is a skill and takes practice. 

• The amount you express isn’t the same as what your baby gets. Babies are usually better at removing milk than a pump.

• If you express right after a breastfeed you may not get much—try waiting half an hour.

Key tip: 
Follow your baby’s lead and feed according to their needs. This will help keep your milk supply going well. If you’re worried, check your baby’s wet nappies and growth, or reach out for support.

© Australian Breastfeeding Association December 2025