Is there really still milk in there? Can I run out of milk? I wish there was a way for me to know how much milk my baby is getting! Let's answer these questions for you.
These are two of the more common questions we get during consults! The answer: Yes, there’s still milk in there, no you won’t run out! This is one of many amazing biological feats of the breastfeeding body. Researchers estimate that about one-third of the breastmilk storage capacity is left even when baby “empties” the breast. Our breastfeeding bodies are smart, this is a conservation mechanism. If there were a time of famine or desperate need to feed a baby, we could. Amazing!
While about two-thirds of the breast storage capacity is available for the nursling at any time, the overall amount of breastmilk made in the breast is driven by demand and supply. To explain this, think about your refrigerator ice maker. If it’s just you at home taking out ice a few times a day for a cold drink, the ice maker does not need to make more ice very often. But if you have a party with 40 people over, ice will be removed all night long, and the ice maker will be running constantly to produce more. Mammary cells work on the same principle to make milk - the more the baby or pump removes, the more your breasts will make.
Milk is always flowing!
Need more help? Book a visit with Wisco Lactation! We offer home & office visit in SE Wisconsin and NE Illinois. We also offer virtual visits worldwide.