Milk Supply 101: Signs, Myths & Support

Part of the Milk Supply 101 series - a gentle, clear guidance for breastfeeding mums. If you’ve ever worried that your milk supply is dipping, you’re not alone. Almost every breastfeeding mum questions it at some point. The good news? Many of the “warning signs” mums stress over aren’t actually signs of low supply at all. At Milk & Bloom, we want you to feel confident, not second-guessing. Here are five common things that do not mean your supply is low, even if they sometimes feel worrying. 5 things that aren’t signs of low supply 1. Your breasts feel soft After the first few weeks your body regulates and breasts often feel softer. This is normal and does not mean there’s no milk. Softer breasts usually mean your supply has adapted to your baby’s needs. 2. Your baby feeds often or cluster feeds Frequent feeds are part of how breastfeeding works. Babies feed more to encourage your body to make more milk. Cluster feeding, especially in the evenings, is usually totally normal. 3. Baby takes a bottle after breastfeeding Bottles often have a faster, easier flow than the breast. If bub takes a bottle after a feed, it doesn’t necessarily mean they were still hungry, sometimes it’s just easier to get extra milk from a bottle. 4. You don’t leak or feel let-down sensations Not everyone leaks, and not everyone feels the tingling of let-down. These are just individual differences. Lack of noticeable let-down does not equal lack of supply. 5. Baby is fussy at the breast Fussiness can come from many places - tiredness, teething, reflux, or a need for comfort. Use nappies, weight gain, and general behaviour as the better indicators of how feeding is going. A gentle reminder Your body is built to feed your baby, and most of the time it’s doing exactly that. If you’re ever unsure, checking nappies, weight and speaking with a lactation consultant (IBCLC), midwife or GP can give you the reassurance you need. If this helped you, share with a friend or save it for later. ❤️

If you’re breastfeeding, chances are you’ve worried about whether your baby is getting enough milk. It’s one of the most common concerns mums face but the truth is, in most cases your supply is perfectly adequate. At Milk & Bloom, we believe in lifting mums up and giving you confidence. Here are five reassuring signs that your milk supply is actually right where it needs to be. 5 signs your milk supply is on track 1. Baby is gaining weight steadily If your little one is following their growth curve (even if it’s on the smaller side), that’s a strong sign your milk is doing its job beautifully. 2. Plenty of wet nappies each day From the end of the first week onwards, at least 6 wet nappies a day is a clear, reliable indicator that bub is well fed. 3. Bub seems content after most feeds Cluster feeding and growth spurts are normal, but most of the time your baby should look satisfied and relaxed after feeding, which means they’re getting what they need. 4. You hear swallowing during feeds That gentle gulping or swallowing sound is music to your ears, it means milk is flowing and your baby is taking it in. 5. Baby is alert and meeting milestones When your little one is alert, active, and gradually hitting developmental milestones, it’s a great sign that they’re getting enough nourishment from your milk. A gentle reminder Every baby and every mum is unique. If you’re ever unsure about your supply, check in with a lactation consultant (IBCLC), midwife, or GP for reassurance. Most of the time, though, you can trust your body: it’s working exactly as it should. 💜 Next in the series Curious about what isn’t a sign of low supply? Read the next post: What’s not a sign of low supply. If this helped you, share it with a friend or save it for later. ❤️

What should you eat while breastfeeding? This guide covers the best foods for breastfeeding mums, from energy-boosting meals to snacks that naturally support milk supply. Written by a mum and cookie maker, it’s full of real-life tips to help you feel nourished, supported, and less overwhelmed in postpartum.