Lactation consultants stated that breast size does not impact the quantity of breast milk production during breastfeeding.
It further revealed that mothers with smaller breasts could produce as much milk as those with larger breasts.
PUNCH Healthwise reports that nutrition and child health experts have emphasized that the key factor in milk production is not breast size, but the frequency of latching.
In commemoration of the 2024 World Breastfeeding Week, celebrated annually from August 1st to 7th, experts aim to raise awareness and promote the benefits of breastfeeding. This year’s theme is “Closing the Gap: Breastfeeding Support for All.”
The specialists debunked the common misconception that larger breast size leads to greater milk production. They stressed that babies who latch on to the breast at least 12 times in 24 hours would stimulate milk production, regardless of their mother’s breast size.
Dr. Moji Odetoyinbo, a paediatrician and breastfeeding specialist, explained that many believe breast size significantly impacts milk production. However, she noted that all women, regardless of breast size, can produce enough milk to feed their babies. By prioritizing frequent latching, mothers can ensure a healthy milk supply and provide their babies with essential nutrients.
Dr. Odetoyinbo highlighted the role of the hormone prolactin in milk production. “Prolactin is stimulated by the frequent latching of the baby, which sends a signal to the mother’s body to produce more milk. This hormone is not affected by breast size, so even mothers with smaller breasts can produce ample milk if their babies latch on frequently,” she stated.
She emphasized, “A woman’s ability to produce milk is not determined by her breast size, but by the frequency and effectiveness of her baby’s latching. Mothers with smaller breasts can produce just as much milk as those with larger breasts, provided their babies latch on frequently enough. The key to milk production is the stimulation of breast tissue through frequent latching.”
In addition to frequent latching, the physician recommended that mothers pay attention to their overall health and well-being to support milk production. “Adequate hydration, a balanced diet, and sufficient rest can all help support milk production and overall breastfeeding success,” she advised.
Beatrice Ogunba, a Public Health Nutritionist at Obafemi Awolowo University, echoed these sentiments. She emphasized that breast size has no bearing on a mother’s ability to produce milk, which is predominantly influenced by the frequency of breastfeeding sessions.
Ogunba, who is also a breastfeeding and complementary feeding expert, asserted that both small-breasted and large-breasted women are capable of producing the same volume of milk. She advised mothers to ensure their babies latch onto the breast at least 12 times within 24 hours. Regular feeding is crucial for maintaining an adequate milk supply and supporting the baby’s nutritional needs.
“It is not about the size. Breast size is irrelevant when it comes to how much milk a mother produces. A woman with small breasts will produce just as much milk as a mother with large breasts. The frequency of latching on the breast determines the production of milk. Mothers should latch their babies on the breast at least 12 times in 24 hours,” she noted.
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Credit – PUNCH Healthwise
