While I’m no expert on this subject of overactive letdown and oversupply of milk, I’m excited to share this information with other Moms! I’m still trying to figure this all out myself, because my hope is that my baby who is suffering from the same symptoms I spoke about in Part I of this article, is actually having a problem with my supply, and NOT a problem with the foods I eat.
However, in my case, I am currently cutting out dairy, soy, chocolate, corn, eggs, and nuts. I also have a prescription for an acid reflux medication if dietary changes don’t work, and we started my sweet little baby on a probiotic too. So, I am currently in the thick of it all trying to figure out why my child is so fussy! It’s a daily struggle.
But, the hope is that with adjusting my supply, I can solve all his aches and pains and can start adding food back into my diet. But, in some ways, things like this are just an experiment by each individual mother based on her own child and her own supply. If you are suspicious that this could be your problem too, then there are a few things that can help, but always consult your physician too.
Positioning of the infant while breastfeeding. When you have an overactive letdown, and your baby is choking on your milk, then baby becomes frustrated and so do you. Your baby may even not want to nurse! I know my little guy refuses to sometimes. But, if you can position your baby where his head is above your nipple, rather than below it, then you might have more luck with him managing what is coming at him so fast.
Pumping or expressing a little milk before feedings so that baby gets more of the hind milk. You have to be careful not to pump too much. You definitely don’t want to increase your supply when you already have too much to begin with! Just an ounce or two will help get the fore milk out of the way, and get your baby to that precious hind milk. Getting too much of the foremilk is the main cause of the symptoms mentioned in part I. Some Moms, like myself, may even be able to express just a little into a towel and wait until the flow stops to put your baby back on the breast.
Switching breasts LESS often during feedings. Also known as block feedings. Most people will warn you to feed your baby from both sides at every feeding. If you have an oversupply, forget that advice! Instead, focus on one breast at a feeding. If this does not lessen your supply, then try only switching breasts every other feeding. In other words, go 4-6 hours before switching breasts rather than switching breasts at every feeding.
You will have to experiment with what works for you and your supply. However, never do anything too drastic at first. Take your time, and give yourself a week or two to see results. Always consult your baby’s pediatrician when struggling with this issue. However, sometimes following your instinct might be the best thing to do for your baby!
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