A drop in breast milk supply in the evening is a common concern for many breastfeeding mothers. While it’s not always a cause for worry, understanding the reasons behind it can help you take steps to improve your supply.
Understanding the Evening Dip
Approximately 70% of breastfeeding mothers experience a temporary decrease in milk production in the evening hours, often between 6 pm and 10 pm. This phenomenon, known as the “evening dip,” is thought to be related to:
- Circadian rhythm: Hormones that stimulate milk production fluctuate throughout the day, with levels generally lowest in the evening.
- Increased prolactin release: Prolactin, the hormone responsible for milk production, is released in higher amounts at night. However, the body may temporarily release less prolactin in the evening due to the circadian rhythm.
- Fatigue: Exhaustion from a busy day can affect milk production, as fatigue has been linked to lower prolactin levels.
Why Is It a Concern?
While the evening dip is typically temporary, it can cause feelings of anxiety and frustration for mothers who are concerned about their milk supply. A drop in breast milk supply can lead to:
- Reduced breast milk intake by the baby: Less breast milk may mean that the baby is not getting enough to satisfy their hunger or nutritional needs.
- Increased fussiness and crying: A hungry baby may become fussy or cry due to insufficient breast milk intake.
- Reduced milk storage: A drop in milk production can deplete the breast’s milk stores, making it harder to meet the baby’s demands during other feedings.
Step-by-Step Approach to Boosting Evening Milk Supply
1. Nurse More Frequently:
- Offer the breast more often in the evening, even if the baby doesn’t seem particularly hungry.
- This stimulates prolactin production and encourages the breasts to make more milk.
2. Power Pump:
- Express milk for 15-20 minutes in the evening, even if you don’t feel like you have much milk.
- This sends a signal to your body to produce more milk.
3. Warm Compresses and Massage:
- Apply warm compresses to your breasts before breastfeeding or pumping.
- Massage your breasts gently in a circular motion to stimulate milk flow.
4. Relax and Hydrate:
- Stress and dehydration can both inhibit milk production.
- Take some time to relax, drink plenty of fluids, and rest.
5. Consider Fenugreek or Blessed Thistle:
- Certain herbs have been shown to support milk production.
- Consult with a healthcare professional before taking any supplements.
Tables for Easy Reference
| Step | Action | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nurse More Frequently | Stimulate prolactin production and encourage milk production |
| 2 | Power Pump | Signal the body to produce more milk |
| 3 | Warm Compresses and Massage | Stimulate milk flow |
| 4 | Relax and Hydrate | Reduce stress and dehydration, which can inhibit milk production |
| Herb | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Fenugreek | Supports milk production |
| Blessed Thistle | May increase milk supply |
| Time | Prolactin Level |
|---|---|
| Evening (6-10 pm) | Generally lowest |
| Night (10 pm-4 am) | Highest |
| Fatigue | Prolactin Level |
|---|---|
| High | Low |
| Moderate | Moderate |
| Low | High |
