If you’re a new mom who has just started breastfeeding, it’s important to understand that there are certain things you can do that may decrease your milk supply. Here are five common mistakes to avoid:

💤 Mistake #1: Not Nursing Frequently Enough 😴

One big mistake that can reduce your milk supply is not nursing often enough. If you go too long between feedings, your body may start to think that it doesn’t need to produce as much milk. It’s important to let your baby nurse on demand, and not to wait for them to signal that they’re hungry.

A nursing mother holding her baby, looking happy and content.

🍔 Mistake #2: Not Eating Enough 🍎

Another mistake that can affect your milk supply is not eating enough. When you’re breastfeeding, your body needs extra calories to produce milk. If you don’t eat enough, your body may not be able to make as much milk as your baby needs. It’s important to eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats.

A plate of colorful and healthy food, including fruit, vegetables, and lean protein.

🚬 Mistake #3: Smoking 🚭

Smoking can also decrease your milk supply. Nicotine causes constriction in the blood vessels, which can reduce blood flow to the breast tissue and decrease milk production. Smoking can also affect the taste of your milk and make it less appealing to your baby. If you’re a smoker, it’s important to quit for your own health as well as for the health of your baby.

A picture of a cigarette with a red circle and a line through it.

💊 Mistake #4: Taking Medications That Suppress Milk Production 💉

Some medications can also suppress milk production. If you’re taking any medications, it’s important to talk to your doctor about whether they could be affecting your milk supply. Some medications that can decrease milk production include hormonal contraceptives, decongestants, and some antidepressants.

A picture of prescription bottles and pills on a table.

🍼 Mistake #5: Not Emptying Your Breasts 🙅‍♀️

Finally, not emptying your breasts completely can also decrease your milk supply. If you don’t completely empty your breasts during a feeding, your body may think that you don’t need to produce as much milk. It’s important to let your baby nurse until they’re full, and to offer both breasts during each feeding.

A picture of a breast pump and a bottle of breast milk.

By avoiding these five common mistakes, you can help to ensure that your milk supply is strong and healthy. Remember to nurse often, eat a balanced diet, avoid smoking and medications that suppress milk production, and always empty your breasts completely. Happy breastfeeding, momma! 🤱🏻💕

A picture of a mother breastfeeding her baby, with a big heart emoji in the background.