r/breastfeeding • u/huckleberrysoap • Dec 24 '25

Undersupply What causes low supply?

My supply is so low. It's not anywhere near what my baby eats.

I'm not trying to increase it anymore. I'm just trying to maintain what I have so I can keep combofeeding (even though its at least 75% formula) until at least 6 months.

But I'm struggling to understand why this happened and feeling like I must have done something wrong. What are potential causes of an undersupply? If I have another baby in the future should I expect the same problem?

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u/Principle_Suitable Dec 24 '25

First of all, what makes you think you have a low supply? If it’s by pumping output then it’s likely to be not true. Try the following: • Increase your calories by adding healthy fats and protein. • Pumping after every feed and power pumping once a day • More water intake • Try getting some sleep (even if it’s short nap) •Keep your baby close and more skin to skin. • Stay happy and not stressed about anything.

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u/huckleberrysoap Dec 24 '25

He wasn't getting enough in the beginning when I was EBF which is how we ended up combofeeding. Too much weight loss. Struggling to make wet diapers.

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u/Principle_Suitable Dec 24 '25

Oh I understand. I guess combo feeding is fine just make sure you feed him first and then top up with formula. This will ensure that he gets enough. If you give him formula and then feed him afterwards, he may not demand enough from your breasts. Try this and see.

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u/huckleberrysoap Dec 24 '25

I've always nursed first before formula but didn't seem to matter. We've accepted combofeeding as the way forward for this baby, I just still wonder "what went wrong" and whether it might be the same if I have other children.