Pregatips
In this article:
Knowing the science, the options, and the signs to look out for can help you make choices that work for both you and your baby, without feeling like you’re failing.
What Exclusive Breastfeeding Actually Means
When doctors or organisations like WHO say “exclusive breastfeeding,” they mean:- Your baby receives only breastmilk (directly or expressed) for the first six months
- No other milk, water, or solid foods, except prescribed medications, vitamins, or oral rehydration solutions if needed
- Breastmilk can be given by bottle, cup, or spoon if not fed directly at the breast
- The right balance of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates for your baby’s stage of growth
- Immune-boosting antibodies that protect against diarrhoea, pneumonia, and infections
- Digestive enzymes and hormones that help gut development
Why Some Mothers Struggle with Supply
Low breastmilk supply is not always about your diet or “willpower.” It can be due to medical, hormonal, or situational factors. Common reasons include:- Poor latch or positioning – If the baby isn’t latching well, the breast isn’t stimulated enough to produce more milk.
- Delayed initiation of breastfeeding – Ideally, breastfeeding should start within one hour of birth. Delays can make it harder for the milk supply to establish.
- Hormonal conditions – Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid imbalance, or retained placenta tissue can affect milk production.
- Previous breast surgery – Depending on the type, it may reduce milk gland or duct function.
- Maternal illness or postpartum complications – Severe anaemia, high blood loss at birth, or infection can temporarily lower the supply.
- Infrequent feeding or strict schedules – Milk production works on demand and supply; long gaps between feeds can reduce output.
How to Know if Your Baby Is Getting Enough Milk
Because newborns feed often and can cry for many reasons, it’s not always obvious whether they’re full. Signs of adequate intake include:- Weight gain – After an initial drop in the first days, your baby should regain birth weight by 2 weeks and gain steadily thereafter.
- Wet nappies – At least 6–8 wet diapers in 24 hours after day 5 of life.
- Content after feeds – Relaxed hands, calmer behaviour, and spontaneous sleep after feeding.
- Stool changes – By the end of the first week, stools should be mustard-yellow and seedy, not dark and sticky.
What to Do If You’re Not Producing Enough Milk
First, rule out and address reversible causes. A lactation consultant can check your baby’s latch, feeding position, and swallowing patterns. Medical support might include:- Frequent, unrestricted feeding – Offering both breasts each time, at least 8–12 feeds in 24 hours.
- Skin-to-skin contact – This stimulates oxytocin release, which helps milk flow.
- Pumping between feeds – Double pumping for 15–20 minutes can boost supply.
- Galactagogues (milk-boosting aids) – Certain foods (fenugreek, shatavari) and medications may help, but only under medical supervision.
Safe Supplementation When Needed
If exclusive breastfeeding is not possible despite best efforts, supplementation can be introduced without compromising your baby’s health. Options include:- Expressed breastmilk from you – Stored safely and given by cup, spoon, or bottle.
- Donor human milk – From an accredited human milk bank (available in some Indian hospitals).
- Infant formula – Only as per paediatric advice; prepare with boiled, cooled water in hygienic conditions to prevent contamination.
Myths and Pressures Around Breastfeeding in India
- Myth: If milk doesn’t “come in” by day two, it never will.
- Myth: Formula is harmful.
- Myth: Giving water in summer is necessary.
Exclusive breastfeeding for six months is ideal, but it is not always possible for every mother. Low supply is a medical reality, not a failure. The safest approach is to work with healthcare professionals to maximise your milk production while ensuring your baby is fed adequately through safe alternatives when needed. The goal is a healthy baby and a healthy mother — and that can be achieved in more than one way.
Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.
FAQs on Do You Have to Breastfeed Only? What to Do if Milk Supply Is Low
- Can I still partially breastfeed if I need to supplement?
Yes. Partial breastfeeding still provides your baby with immune and nutritional benefits. - Will drinking more water boost my milk supply?
Staying hydrated is important, but excessive water intake won’t directly increase supply. Demand through feeding or pumping is the main driver. - Is donor milk safe in India?
Yes, if it’s from a registered human milk bank that screens and pasteurises donations according to ICMR guidelines. - Can stress reduce breastmilk production?
Yes. Stress can temporarily affect milk let-down. Relaxation techniques and supportive environments can help.
