Milk supply and antibiotics

[little_O]

Saw my midwife and lactation consultant today and she said it was best I start the antibiotics and neurogenic for my mastitis.

Whilst my breasts have already improved, and I have been expressing to drain my milk, I have noticed tonight I didn't need to express at all the little miss fed for a lot longer and still seemed hungry.

Is it possible the antibiotics will reduce my milk supply? Seems crazy to go from one extreme to another!

[Kmn]

No, your supply hasn't gone down. Your babies appetite has gone up and she is asking your boobs to make a bit more tomorrow please. That is exactly what should happen during week 2, and it typically takes the form of cluster feeding in the evening, though it can vary a bit.

As she grows this will continue to happen sometimes - as long as she continues to grow and wee and poo (though the pooing can become quite irregular in a couple of months) then your supply is just fine.

[Kmn]

No, your supply hasn't gone down. Your babies appetite has gone up and she is asking your boobs to make a bit more tomorrow please. That is exactly what should happen during week 2, and it typically takes the form of cluster feeding in the evening, though it can vary a bit. You will probably be much fuller tomorrow - don't get engorged, let her feed as much as she wants to and also hand express if you feel over-full.

As she grows this will continue to happen sometimes - as long as she continues to grow and wee and poo (though the pooing can become quite irregular in a couple of months) then your supply is just fine.

[Barb Glare]

No, the antibiotics will not reduce your supply. Your breasts have become a bit blocked up. Feed your baby frequently and use icepacks to reduce the inflammation. And rest! You will be back on track in less than 24 hours.

[Sagres]

I've not noticed antibiotics having an impact on supply, but I was going to say the same as Barb, because there have been blockages the usual pattern of empty breast-signal to make more milk-more milk made-baby feeds-empty breast has been interrupted. Because your breasts probably haven't been 'empty' as such your body hasn't been getting that message 'I'm empty, fill er up thanks' and your body is thinking it can slow down the milk production. But yes, keep feeding her as much as she demands and your breasts will come to the party!

[peanutter]

I don't know that antibiotics have ever hurt my supply, but being sick, stressed and dehydrated certainly have!

Lots of water, lots of sleep, and lots of feeding and you should be ok, though.

Have some probiotics to try to balance yourself out, and keep an eye out for oral thrush in bubs, and on your nipples too.

Get well soon!