Breastfeeding is a natural and rewarding experience. It provides essential nutrients and strengthens the bond between mother and baby. However, some mothers face challenges like hyperlactation syndrome, where they produce too much milk. While an abundant supply may seem helpful, it can cause problems for both mother and baby. Mothers may feel discomfort, engorgement, or pain during feeding.
Babies might struggle to latch or get overwhelmed by the fast milk flow. Recognising hyperlactation syndrome early is important. It helps mothers address the issue and seek support to manage their milk supply effectively. Regarding the same, we reached out to a few experts and asked about the causes of the oversupply of breast milk.
What Is Hyperlactation Syndrome?
Hyperlactation syndrome (HS), also known as "oversupply," happens when a breastfeeding person makes more milk than their baby needs. As per a study published on PubMed, it encompasses a range of conditions related to excessive milk production in breastfeeding mothers. It includes issues like milk stasis, blocked ducts, inflammatory or infectious mastitis, and breast abscesses.
Dr. Dipali Patel, Consultant Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Manipal Hospital, Pune, explained that excessive breastfeeding is usually not a concern. She stated that breastfed babies usually regulate their intake based on hunger and fullness. Although excessive breastfeeding is rare, some mothers may encounter challenges in the early weeks. These challenges include sore nipples, engorgement, and exhaustion from frequent feeding. She also noted that long feeding sessions without proper rest or nutrition can lead to dehydration or vitamin deficiencies in mothers.
Causes of the Oversupply of Breast Milk
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Dr Tanima Singhal, Pregnancy educator and Lactation Consultant, Maa-Si Care Clinic, Lucknow, shared that there is no single cause for the oversupply of breast milk. Instead, several factors can contribute to hyperlactation syndrome. Some of the key causes, according to the expert, are mentioned below.
- Overstimulation: Pumping too often or using a breast pump incorrectly can overstimulate the breasts. This tells the body to make more milk.
- Hormonal Imbalance: High levels of prolactin, the hormone that controls milk production, can cause hyperlactation. This is called hyperprolactinemia.
- Overuse of Galactagogues: Taking too many supplements or medications to boost milk supply can lead to oversupply.
- Feeding Patterns: Feeding on a fixed schedule instead of following the baby’s hunger cues can cause overproduction. If the baby doesn’t fully empty the breast, it signals the body to make more milk.
- Genetic Predisposition: Some people naturally produce more milk due to their genetics.
Treatment of Hyperlactation syndrome
To treat hyperlactation syndrome, the goal is to reduce excess milk production and make breastfeeding more comfortable. Some of the other options are mentioned below.
- Feed on demand instead of following a strict schedule. This helps adjust the milk supply to the baby’s needs.
- Ensure a good latch to improve comfort and milk removal.
- Use block feeding, where the baby feeds from one breast for a few hours before switching, to help decrease milk supply.
- If pumping is necessary, mothers should pump only enough to relieve pressure without increasing production.
- Apply cold compresses or cabbage leaves to reduce swelling and engorgement.
- Consider herbal remedies or medications, but discuss these with a doctor first.
Conclusion
A lactation specialist can guide mothers in managing hyperlactation syndrome. They offer personalized advice to ease symptoms and improve breastfeeding. If problems continue, mothers should seek medical help to address any underlying issues and ensure both mother and baby stay healthy.