Do soft, flaccid breasts = supply issue?

Shema N

My baby just turned a week old and my milk came in a few days ago. Up until today I noticed I went through cycles where my breasts would become very firm, full and uncomfortable to the point where I?d have to pump a bit to relieve the discomfort before latching baby. Then this past evening it seems like my breasts aren?t ?filling up? and becoming firm prior to feedings as in the past few days.

My baby is feeding longer and more frequently. So I?m not sure if my flaccid breasts are due to the frequency and length of feeds OR if the baby?s frequent need to eat is b/c my supply is going down? He had his weigh in with the peds yesterday and is gaining which is reassuring. But the issue with having deflated breasts didn?t start until today. So does this sound like I have a supply issue?Help!

honkytonk_kid

No!

Size, shape, feeling, engorgement, etc have nothing to do with how much milk you are making. If your baby is nursing more frequently and for longer, there just isn't time to get engorged. That's ok!

One week olds can nurse all.the.time. That's normal- it doesn't mean you don't have enough milk. If he's gaining and making enough diapers, you're making enough milk.

tokenhoser

Watch the baby, not the boobs. If the baby is making lots of diapers (at least 7 in a day, most of which should be poopy at this point) and gaining weight, you're fine.

We aren't all walking around engorged for a year +. Odds are you are just feeding frequently enough to avoid engorgement, which is a good thing. 

Shema N

Thanks for your responses!I'm so nervous about maintaining a good supply. I guess I was worried b/c it seemed like I was looking a lot "fuller" before but suddenly my breasts are back down to their pre-nursing size which makes me wonder if there's enough milk. But sounds like I don't have to worry...

tokenhoser

When you're feeling brave enough to leave the house, find a breastfeeding support group to go to. It really helps to have a bunch of women going through the same things and helping you have confidence that what's happening to you and your baby is normal. Or to help you find solutions if there is a problem. I miss my group a lot now that I'm back at work!