When you are learning about nursing, you probably keep seeing everyone talk about how to make MORE milk. But engorgement and oversupply of milk can also be an issue, as well.
Oversupply and engorgement can be painful and frustrating – especially for people who are nursing for the first time.
It is common and there are things you can try, however.
Here is what you need to know about oversupply and engorgement.
What are they?
Engorgement and oversupply are two different things. Generally, engorgement happens a few days after birth and can be painful or uncomfortable. Oversupply is when too much milk is produced.
How long does it last and do I need to worry?
Engorgement usually goes away in the first week, but oversupply can last – and have other issues.
The main issue with oversupply is, baby might get too much foremilk (which is the milk that comes first in a nursing session) and not enough of the richer, more filling hindmilk. Babies need a balance of both to be happy and healthy. Babies who are getting too much foremilk can be fussy and gassy.
Oversupply can also mean you have too quick of a letdown, which can cause baby to choke or gag. You might also notice baby gulping or pulling away.
What can I do?
If you have any questions or concerns, it is never a bad idea to seek out a good lactation consultant for help and advice. Also, waiting it out isn’t a bad idea either, as both engorgement and oversupply tend to resolve themselves, as the nursing relationship progresses.
Hang in there! The start of any nursing journey can be rocky, but help and support is available.
Everything Birth
At Everything Birth, we love supporting those who nurse – and their little nurslings.