fbpx

This could be why your supply is dropping at 3 months

This could be why your supply is dropping at 3 months

It’s a common concern among parents with babies aged three to four months: a sudden decrease in milk supply. If this scenario sounds familiar, rest assured you’re not alone. Let’s explore the possible reasons behind this change and what you can do to ensure your baby is feeding adequately.

 

Understanding the Timing of Feeds

One of the primary reasons for a drop in milk supply is the timing of feeds. It’s a widespread belief, fueled by numerous sources online, that you should feed your baby at fixed intervals – every three or four hours. However, this regimented schedule might not suit every baby and can adversely affect your milk supply over time.

The Impact of Scheduled Feeding

Relying on a strict feeding schedule can lead to a gradual decrease in milk supply. This is often why parents notice a decline around the third or fourth month. The solution? Shift to a more flexible feeding approach. Consider adopting what I like to call “The Mama’s Method.”

The Mama’s Method: Feeding on Demand

“The Mama’s Method” emphasizes feeding on demand rather than adhering to a timetable. This means observing your baby’s hunger cues and offering milk whenever they seem interested, regardless of the clock. It’s perfectly normal to offer multiple feeds during an awake period; your baby may accept or decline.

Building Supply for Your Baby, Not the Clock

The crux of the matter is this: when you follow your baby’s lead, you’re building a milk supply tailored to their needs, rather than a predetermined schedule. Feeding on demand helps ensure your supply remains ample and responsive to your baby’s growth.

Engaging with Your Baby’s Needs

If this resonates with you and you’re experiencing a drop in supply, start by observing your baby’s cues closely. Adapt your feeding strategy to be more aligned with their needs, and watch how this change can positively affect both your supply and your baby’s satisfaction.

By focusing on your baby rather than the clock, you can mitigate issues with supply and nurture a healthy feeding relationship. If you have thoughts or questions on this topic, please share them in the comments. Let’s support each other through this journey!

 

If you need more support

I lead a team of Registered Nurses and Nurse Practitioners around the globe, who share my programs and who I personally mentor.

If you are struggling with your baby or child, you can reach out and we can help. We do in person and virtual feeding assessments. We also offer women’s health services and can help you achieve optimal hormonal health. Our services are often covered through insurance.

You can find the nurse closest to you here. If you need more help you can reach out to [email protected].

Thank you so much for being a part of our community,

Carrie Bruno RN, IBCLC, MSCP

SHARE THIS POST

Need Support?

Find Us Elsewhere

The Mama Coach- Content Campaign-18

About Us

The Mama Coach is a global team of Registered Nurses and Nurse Practitioners.

Our mission is to guide families through every stage of their parenting journey by providing evidence-informed education infused with non-judgmental support, compassion, and empathy.