Overview
Most mothers make enough milk. Supply follows demand: the more milk is removed, the more is made.
Causes of low supply include poor latch, long gaps between feeds, past breast surgery, and some medicines.
Symptoms
Common signs:
- Worried about low milk supply
Less common
- Baby fussy at the breast
When to get medical care
Call 911A baby who is limp, hard to wake, struggling to breathe, or has blue or gray lips: call 911.
Get care todayFew wet diapers, or a sleepy baby not feeding.
See a doctor soonWeight not gaining.
Causes
Latch, infrequent feeding.
Does it spread or run in families?
- It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.
Who is more likely to get it
- Breast surgery
Diagnosis
Your baby's weight is checked.
Treatment
Boost supply.
Self-care
- Feed 8 to 12 times a day
- Pump after feeds
- Skin-to-skin time
- Offer both breasts each feed
- Drink to thirst and rest when you can
Prevention
To lower your risk or prevent problems:
- Feed early and often
Which doctor treats this
- Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
- They may send you to an OB-GYN or midwife; high-risk pregnancies may see a maternal-fetal medicine doctor.
Children, pregnancy, and older adults
- Mothers of preemies: Pumping often helps build supply.
Outlook
Often improves.
Most mothers can increase supply with support.
Getting ready for your visit
Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.
Questions to ask
- Is my baby gaining enough?
- Could a lactation consultant help?
Research studies
Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.
Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Low breast milk supply
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-12.