Breastfeeding: Supply anxiety after mastitis

Hi I’m over 7 weeks postpartum and have recovered from mastitis recently which caused a drop in my supply unfortunately and I had to top baby up with formula… I now breastfeed him and then if he’s still unsettled or hungry I offer a bottle to check if he needs it… usually works as I am then reassured. I’ve been building my supply up slowly I think as baby is taking less and less formula over the last few days, but I find myself constantly worrying about how much I’m producing. Especially in the afternoons when he’s hungry and often unsettled after feeds (think my supply drops then) He’s doing a normal amount of wees and poos so I’m happy there but wanted some advice if anybody’s been through this ?

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Hi, I am sorry you had to go through that, it’s so painful, I’ve had it a few times. I can only tell you that your milk supply will definitely come back, it just takes a few days. I remember one day I woke up and pumped my normal amount before the mastitis, it was like it never happened. Hang in there, you are doing great! Xx

My little girl is also 7 weeks and I've just had mastitis. However, I've been using formula top ups since a few days old as my supply was insufficient due to difficulties getting her to latch. Managed to stop top ups after every feed but defo still need them late afternoon- tiredness etc absolutely affects my supply. Not noticed poorer supply since the mastitis but if you were feeling more tired and unwell I'm sure this could have affected it temporarily. Totally understand the constant worry of whether you're producing enough! It's tough but sounds like you're doing a great job!

Thanks for sharing @Sophie and @Lili ❤️

If you’re still giving baby a bottle I would pump at the same time as the feed that way you’re telling your body that baby needs milk at this time, and within a week or so your body will up the supply naturally, then you can BF on that feed. You’re doing amazing 🫶🏻

Thanks Nicole, I’m breastfeeding at every feed and then if needed topping him up with a bottle if he’ll take it. I will start pumping again that’s a good tip… would you recommend a good pump ? I’ve been told Elvie is great.

The Elvie has mixed reviews purely for the fact it’s so expensive for it just being a wearable! I had the momcozy s9 pros and they were amazing. I mainly BF but also expressed so my partner could feed my son too and they gave me the most milk output out of all pumps I tried. I’d suggest going for something around the price range of the momcozy in case you’re not 100% on them 🥰

Spectra s1- it's a hospital grade double pump with chargeable battery and handy nightlight!

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