I think that there is a perception that breasts are supposed to remain 
full and very firm (maybe even leaky) throughout the breastfeeding 
experience. The reality is, at around six to eight weeks, the breasts 
almost feel normal again. This usually occurs simultaneously with baby’s 
growth spurt. Suddenly, a content baby wants to go to the breast 
frequently, is cranky when not attached and the behavior continues for 
several days AND mom’s breasts are soft. If not educated, women assume 
that they don’t have enough milk and begin supplementing because, “he was 
never satisfied”. How many times have you heard, “My milk just dried up 
over night!”?

 I always try to prepare moms for this 6-8 week transition period. I 
explain that the milk is maturing; becoming more condensed and thus their 
breasts will feel almost normal again. Then I mention that at the same 
time their baby will likely have a growth spurt and want to nurse more 
frequently. This behavior on the baby’s part DOES NOT indicate that they 
don’t have enough milk; just that their baby wants more. (all in the 
language!) It is simply another adjustment period for both breast and 
baby. I remind them of the many adjustments that the breasts have already 
gone through over the pregnancy and early weeks of breastfeeding. This is 
just another step.

When lactating moms understand the dynamics of this adjustment period they 
are more likely to respond to their baby’s cues, increase feeds and 
maintain a good supply. When they panic at these signs, milk supplies and 
babies generally suffer. Resuming her menstrual cycle is probably a result 
of not responding to her baby’s cues and supplementing feeds. Pacifier use 
could also be a cause. I do fear that with the new SIDS guidelines, 
encouraging pacifier use when breastfeeding is well established, we are 
going to see more and more babies and moms with these types of problems. 

Ellen Penchuk, IBCLC, RLC

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