Introduction
Breast milk is the ideal food for infants, providing all the nutrients they need for optimal growth and development. However, as infants grow, their milk needs change. Around 10 months of age, many mothers experience a decrease in their milk supply. This is a normal part of the weaning process, but it can be frustrating for mothers who want to continue breastfeeding.
Causes of Milk Supply Decrease at 10 Months
There are several factors that can contribute to a decrease in milk supply at 10 months, including:
- Natural weaning: As infants start to eat solid foods, they naturally begin to reduce the amount of breast milk they consume.
- Changes in hormone levels: After childbirth, hormone levels gradually return to normal, which can lead to a decrease in milk production.
- Stress or illness: Stress and illness can both affect milk production.
- Medications: Some medications can cause a decrease in milk supply.
- Pregnancy: Pregnancy can cause a decrease in milk supply, as the body begins to prepare for the birth of a new baby.
Symptoms of Milk Supply Decrease
The following are some of the symptoms of a milk supply decrease:
- Reduced breast fullness: Your breasts may feel less full and soft to the touch.
- Infrequent let-downs: You may notice that your milk does not let down as easily or frequently as it once did.
- Shorter breastfeeding sessions: Your baby may start to breastfeed for shorter periods of time.
- Less wet or soiled diapers: Your baby may have fewer wet or soiled diapers than usual.
- Weight loss: Your baby may not be gaining weight as well as they once did.
What to Do if Your Milk Supply Decreases
If you are experiencing a decrease in your milk supply, there are several things you can do to try to increase it, including:
- Breastfeed more frequently: The more you breastfeed, the more milk your body will produce. Aim to breastfeed at least 8-12 times per day.
- Pump regularly: Pumping can help to stimulate milk production. Pump for 15-20 minutes every 3-4 hours, even if you are not getting a lot of milk.
- Massage your breasts: Massaging your breasts can help to improve milk flow. Gently massage your breasts in circular motions for 5-10 minutes before and after each breastfeeding session.
- Apply warm compresses to your breasts: Warm compresses can help to relax the muscles in your breasts and improve milk flow. Apply a warm compress to your breasts for 5-10 minutes before each breastfeeding session.
- Drink plenty of fluids: Staying hydrated is important for milk production. Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water per day.
- Eat a healthy diet: Eating a healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help to support milk production.
- Get enough rest: When you are tired, your body produces less milk. Aim to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep per night.
- Avoid stress: Stress can affect milk production. Try to find ways to relax and manage stress.
- See a lactation consultant: A lactation consultant can help you to identify and address any issues that may be affecting your milk supply.
Conclusion
A decrease in milk supply at 10 months is a normal part of the weaning process. However, there are several things you can do to try to increase your milk supply if you want to continue breastfeeding. If you are concerned about your milk supply, talk to your doctor or a lactation consultant.
FAQs
1. Is it normal for my milk supply to decrease at 10 months?
Yes, it is normal for milk supply to decrease at 10 months as infants start to eat solid foods and their milk needs change.
2. What are some of the symptoms of a milk supply decrease?
Some of the symptoms of a milk supply decrease include reduced breast fullness, infrequent let-downs, shorter breastfeeding sessions, less wet or soiled diapers, and weight loss.
3. What can I do to increase my milk supply?
There are several things you can do to try to increase your milk supply, including breastfeeding more frequently, pumping regularly, massaging your breasts, applying warm compresses to your breasts, drinking plenty of fluids, eating a healthy diet, getting enough rest, avoiding stress, and seeing a lactation consultant.
4. When should I talk to my doctor about my milk supply?
You should talk to your doctor about your milk supply if you are concerned about your baby’s weight gain or if you have any other concerns about your milk supply.
Reviews
1. “I was so worried when my milk supply started to decrease at 10 months. I didn’t want to stop breastfeeding, but I didn’t know what to do. I talked to my doctor and she recommended that I see a lactation consultant. The lactation consultant was so helpful and gave me some great tips on how to increase my milk supply. I followed her advice and my milk supply increased within a few days.” – Sarah W.
2. “I was determined to continue breastfeeding my baby for as long as possible. When my milk supply started to decrease at 10 months, I was devastated. I tried everything I could think of to increase my milk supply, but nothing worked. I finally decided to wean my baby at 12 months. It was a difficult decision, but I knew that it was the best thing for my baby.” – Emily J.
3. “My milk supply decreased at 10 months, but I was able to increase it by breastfeeding more frequently and pumping regularly. I also started eating a healthier diet and drinking more fluids. It took a few weeks, but my milk supply eventually increased.” – Jessica D.
4. “I’m so glad that I didn’t give up on breastfeeding when my milk supply decreased at 10 months. I followed the advice of my lactation consultant and my milk supply increased within a few days. I’m now able to breastfeed my baby for as long as I want.” – Megan H.
