Slow let down

Slow‌ ‌Let‌ ‌Down:‌ ‌How‌ ‌to‌ ‌Speed‌ ‌Things‌ ‌Up‌ ‌And‌ ‌Stop‌ ‌Baby‌ ‌From‌ ‌Being‌ Frustrated‌ ‌ ‌

Let down is a reflex reaction in a breastfeeding mother where the milk production matches with milk delivery to her baby. Let down can be very active and be slow depending on certain physiological processes or hormonal changes within the mother. Although pumping has become very popular among parents and caregivers, it still won’t be sufficient for your baby if you are not having an active let down. 

Hey! By the way… any links on this page that lead to products on Amazon are affiliate links and I earn a commission if you make a purchase. Thanks in advance – I really appreciate it! .

Causes of slow let down include:

1)  Stress and exhaustion: Stress reduces our productivity and efficiency in everything we do. Therefore, it makes mothers unable to enjoy and connect with their babies during breastfeeding which causes slow let down. 

2)  Alcohol and caffeine consumption, substance abuse, and cigarette smoking: Alcohol in the form of wine and beer or tobacco intake through smoking is bad for expecting and breastfeeding women. It can interfere with the hormonal processes of the mother.

3) Improper latching: your baby can cause Slow let down by not latching properly to your breasts. When your baby latches on to your breast properly, he sends the stimuli to your body which produces the required breast milk.

4)  Sickness: Illnesses can affect the normal functioning of the body and in a breastfeeding mother, it can affect her let down.

5)  Surgical mishaps: for mothers who have a history of breast surgery, nerve damage from the surgery may cause slow let down. If you’ve had surgery and you experience a slow let down, then visit your doctor for proper examinations. 

Ways to fix slow let down 

Use a breast pump 

For mothers that aren’t already using a breast pump, pumping helps to optimize breastmilk production. Try using well-fitted pumps, whether electronic or manual, a little before feeding and after. Pumping before allowing your baby to reap the benefits of your hormones already at work and pumping after collects whatever is left that your baby didn’t get. Try to start at high speed but low pressure before slightly increasing the pressure and reducing the speed. It will be helpful to keep on pumping for a period of five to eight minutes. Keep going for a while and do not be discouraged by the quantity of milk expressed. 

Use Heat 

This can be in the form of a massage with warm towels just before feeding or being exposed to some warmth like a warm bath. The heat helps to regulate blood flow and stimulus, transfer within the nerves, and cause let down reflux. You could also have a cup of tea or warm milk or chocolate, which could also have the same effect.

Massage 

Massage should involve rubbing your breasts in a circular direction. You could also use what is called the Marmet Technique. It involves massaging your breasts and manually expressing milk at the same time. You hold your nipple between your thumb and index finger, then alternately push down to your chest and roll your finger to drain the milk. It also helps to bend forward and shake your breasts before starting the process.

Relax and Be Positive 

The best way to get anything done is to free yourself of all stress, so do some yoga! Try meditation, have a spa day, and pamper yourself! Studies have shown that doing something that relieves you of stress positively affects your milk production. Then, hold your baby while pumping or have a picture of your baby with you. Stay in a quiet and peaceful environment and think only of your little one.

Try Skin-To-Skin

Skin-to-skin is a technique used to get oxytocin for both you and your baby. This technique is used in new mothers to enhance lactation and help to enhance the connection between mother and baby. In the process, your baby feels safe and relaxes which in turn relaxes you. This then leads to a better let down.

Fix the latch 

When your baby is latched on properly, he stimulates the nerves that initiate letdown. Ensure that your baby’s mouth is open as you bring him to your breast and that his lower lip isn’t curled back into his mouth. Also, a bad position at the breast can hinder your baby from having a good latch; change between your breasts to find a suitable position. If any problems still arise, visit your pediatrician for more guidelines.

Improve on Your Nutrition 

Certain meals help to improve the amount of milk produced at a time for your baby. They contain phytoestrogen that acts like estrogen in the body and enhances milk production. They also work as relaxants which in turn help to reduce fatigue. This comes in handy as stress has been shown to affect general body functions and milk production in lactating mothers. The food you can eat to improve your breast milk production include:

  • Green Vegetables: They contain phytoestrogen that helps in milk production. 
  • Water: Stay hydrated throughout the day and ensure that you don’t stay thirsty for too long. Take short breaks during the day to have a cup of water, you can add lime, ginger, or a dash of honey to sweeten.
  • Oats and wheat: It contains healthy carbs, vitamins, and minerals to keep the immune system and protect the body while you breastfeed. 
  • Fenugreek: It is a healthy food choice and is very rich in vitamins and minerals. It contains phytoestrogen are like plant estrogen for milk production. They can be used in combination with other vegetables and various food recipes and soups.

By avoiding the above and working hard on a healthy and baby-friendly diet, you can bring back a more active let’s own that will satisfy your baby and reduce or stop any frustration. Also, try to do your best in all your choices, do not mix alcohol in your diet, and do not stress over things that can wait. Also, it’s okay to ask for help when things come to a head from your partner, doctor, family, and friends.

Check out the Ultimate Breastfeeding class to become a pro at breastfeeding within 90 minutes!

Scroll to Top
Scroll to Top