How to deal with leaking

Leaking is very common during breastfeeding, especially during the early weeks!

It can happen during feedings (on the opposite side) and even between feedings! Once milk supply regulates, toward 6 weeks postpartum, leaking often decreases.

**not everyone leaks - this is also normal!**

The hormone oxytocin is responsible for the let-down reflex. In relation to breastfeeding, oxytocin is typically triggered by nipple stretching (baby sucking at the breast or suction from a breast pump), but can also be triggered by baby’s cry, touch, smell or even thinking about baby, and this letdown reflex can cause leaking!

Leaking can also be caused by fuller breasts. This can occur with long periods between feedings, over-production (making more milk than your baby needs), and during adjustment periods if baby is sleeping longer and missing feedings (you may experience leaking around the time of baby’s missed feeding).

How to manage leaking:

  • Nursing pads: absorbent pads in your bra can help soak up any leaked breastmilk. There are disposable as well as reusable nursing pads! I recommend packing an extra set with you when leaving the house!

  • Milk collectors: if you want to collect your leaking breastmilk, milk collectors are a wonderful choice! You can wear them on the opposite side when breastfeeding and between feedings to catch any letdown! You can combine this collected milk and freeze it or use it for a bottle for baby (be sure to pump to replace that feeding when baby gets that bottle).

  • Pack an extra shirt or sweatshirt, just in case!

And remember: not everyone leaks! I experienced an oversupply with my first and still never once had a single drop of breastmilk leak, even when I was engorged. Not between feedings, not during feedings. Because of this, breastfeeding products like milk collectors and silicone pumps did not work for me. If you don’t leak, please do not be concerned that something is wrong!

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Hannah Cano RN, CLC

Hello! My name is Hannah and I have been supporting mothers in their breastfeeding journeys as a postpartum nurse for over 7 years. After experiencing a challenging breastfeeding journey with my first child, I was inspired to obtain my Lactation Certification. I created this website and the Instagram account @your.breast_friend to spread evidence based education and support to breastfeeding mamas, no matter what their breastfeeding journey looks like. I hope that I can positively impact your breastfeeding journey!

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What to expect: breastfeeding from birth to 24 hours