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Fast let-down

Updated: Sep 17, 2024



If you’ve noticed that your baby seems to gulp, cough, or pull away from the breast during feeds, you might be dealing with a fast letdown (also called an overactive letdown). This happens when milk flows from the breast too quickly for your baby to handle, causing them to struggle with the pace of feeding. While a fast letdown can be challenging, there are several ways to manage it so you and your baby can enjoy more comfortable and relaxed feeding sessions.



What is fast letdown?

Fast letdown occurs when milk flows out of the breast rapidly during feeding, often overwhelming the baby. This happens when the milk ejection reflex (letdown) is particularly strong, causing milk to gush out faster than the baby can swallow comfortably.

Some signs that you may have a fast letdown include:

  • Your baby coughing, gagging, or choking during feeds.

  • Frequent pulling off the breast or clamping down on the nipple.

  • Fussiness during or after feeding.

  • Clicking sounds while feeding.

  • Large amounts of milk leaking or spraying from the breast during letdown.

  • Baby swallowing quickly or gulping during feeds.

It’s also common for babies to become gassy or fussy after feeds due to taking in too much air while trying to keep up with the fast milk flow.



Causes of fast letdown

Fast letdown is often related to an oversupply of milk, but it can also happen in mums with a normal milk supply. When the milk ejection reflex is strong, the milk can come out in force, making it difficult for babies to manage the flow. Oversupply, frequent feedings, or pumping too often can sometimes contribute to a faster letdown.



How to manage fast letdown

Dealing with fast letdown can take some adjustment, but with the right techniques, you can help slow the flow and make breastfeeding more comfortable for both you and your baby. Here are some tips for managing fast letdown:


Feed in a laid-back or upright position

One of the easiest ways to manage a fast letdown is by changing your breastfeeding position. Feeding in a laid-back or reclined position allows gravity to slow the flow of milk, helping your baby better control the pace. You can lie back with your baby positioned tummy-to-tummy or use a more upright position like the football hold to give your baby more control.

Let the initial letdown pass

If your letdown is particularly strong, you can let the first letdown pass before allowing your baby to latch. To do this, express a little milk by hand or with a pump until the initial flow slows down, then latch your baby. This can help reduce the force of the milk and make feeding more manageable for your baby.

Take frequent breaks

If your baby seems overwhelmed during feeds, take regular breaks to allow them to catch their breath and recover. Let them come off the breast if needed, then re-latch when they’re ready. This can also help reduce the amount of air they swallow, which can minimise gas and discomfort later.

Burp your baby often

Since babies with fast letdown often swallow air while feeding, it’s helpful to burp your baby frequently during and after feeds. Burping helps relieve trapped gas and can prevent fussiness and discomfort after feeding.

Offer only one breast per feed

If you have an oversupply and fast letdown, offering only one breast per feeding session can help regulate your milk flow. Feeding from just one breast during each session allows the other breast time to adjust, which can slow down your milk production and reduce the intensity of the letdown. If your baby still seems hungry, you can switch to the other breast after the first breast has been emptied.

Paced bottle feeding

If you’re also bottle-feeding expressed breast milk, consider using paced bottle feeding. This technique mimics breastfeeding by allowing your baby to control the flow of milk and take breaks during feeds, which can prevent them from being overwhelmed by a fast flow.



Will fast letdown affect my baby?

While fast letdown can be challenging, most babies adapt over time. In some cases, they might struggle with the flow initially but learn to cope as they grow older and their feeding skills improve.

However, if fast letdown is causing your baby to refuse the breast, become very fussy during feeds, or not gain weight properly, it’s a good idea to consult a lactation consultant or healthcare provider. They can help assess the situation and offer more personalised advice.



Managing milk supply

Since fast letdown is often linked to an oversupply of milk, you may want to take steps to regulate your milk production. Here are a few strategies to help balance your supply:

  • Block Feeding: Block feeding involves offering the same breast for a few feeding sessions in a row, which helps reduce milk production on the other side. This can slow down milk flow and help manage fast letdown. It’s a good idea to chat to a lactation consultant before trying this method to make sure that it is the right management strategy for you. If this technique isn’t performed correctly, you could drastically lower your milk supply.

  • Avoid over-pumping: If you’re pumping to store milk, avoid pumping excessively, as this can stimulate more milk production and worsen the fast letdown. Pump only when necessary and try to pump just enough to relieve fullness rather than fully emptying the breasts each time.



You’re doing great

Dealing with fast letdown can feel frustrating, but with patience and some adjustments, most mums find a solution that works for them and their baby. Remember, every breastfeeding journey is different, and finding what works for you takes time. If you’re feeling unsure or need extra support, don’t hesitate to reach out to a lactation consultant or healthcare provider for guidance. You've got this!

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