When does breast milk supply decrease?

There's no rule that breast milk "suddenly disappears" or "decreases in one day," which is why everyone around you has a different experience. Physiologically, milk production works on a supply-and-demand basis: the more your baby nurses or you express, the more milk your body produces. The most common reasons for decreased supply are:

• Baby's growth spurts (usually around weeks 3-6, month 3, month 6)—your baby wants to nurse more frequently, your milk seems insufficient but actually demand has increased, and within 2–3 days your body adjusts production.
• Starting solid foods—as the baby nurses less, milk naturally decreases. After 6 months, decreasing milk is an expected change.
• Stress, tiredness, not drinking enough fluid, decreased nursing frequency, waiting between feedings.
• Medications (some antihistamines, birth control pills) or new pregnancy.

So in short: if your baby is younger than 6 months and nursing frequently, it's hard to know if your milk truly decreased—usually your baby's weight gain and daily wet diapers show this. If you suspect a real decrease, consulting a lactation consultant or pediatrician is healthiest.

Note: This information is not medical advice; please consult your doctor for questions about medications and dosages.