Hyperlactation is when your body produces a lot of breast milk that comes out fast and forcibly, so that it leaks or sprays. Your baby may pull away, choke, or gag after the initial squirt of milk because she isn't able to swallow fast enough. She may also refuse the breast and act fussy.
Some people refer to this problem as hyperactive or overactive letdown. This description isn't entirely accurate because it implies that the problem is the letdown reflex rather than the milk production.
What causes it?
Overactive milk production is generally caused by an immature, unregulated milk supply, and will correct itself in a few weeks. However, some mothers continue to make an overabundance of milk even after their milk supply is established.
Some breastfeeding experts believe that this may be more of a problem for mothers with a lot of alveoli (the milk-producing glands) in their breasts. The average range is 100,000 to 300,000 alveoli per breast, and mothers with hyperactive lactation often fall at the top of the scale.
Certain hormonal imbalances, pituitary tumors, and medications can also put milk production in high gear. If you're concerned, see your doctor.
What should I do?
Before each feeding, hand express or pump just enough milk to slow down your flow. (You can squirt this milk into a cloth, or into a bottle to store for later use.) But don't pump too much or between feedings while you're trying to regulate your milk supply. The more you stimulate your breasts and the more milk you take out, the more you'll produce to fill demand.
To help your baby cope with so much milk, vary your nursing position. If you normally use the cradle hold, try having your baby sit up facing you to nurse (you may need to flex his head back a bit). Or lie back and nurse with your baby on top of you, letting gravity slow the flow.
To help cut down your milk supply, you need to "trick" your body into thinking your baby is weaning. You can imitate the weaning process by gradually giving your baby fewer or shorter feedings. Anytime you reduce the amount of milk that comes out of the breast it signals the body to cut down on production.
You can also use only one breast for two to four feedings. Put your baby to your breast as many times as she desires — just use the same one for up to a two-hour period. You can pump your other breast (but only a little) to relieve pressure. This technique should work in 24 to 48 hours.
Remember, as with most breastfeeding concerns, it can take as long as a week to see an improvement. In the meantime, understand that your baby's inability to handle your milk flow is not a rejection of you.
If nothing seems to work or you're concerned about a possible health problem, see your doctor or a lactation consultant.
Will it affect my baby?
Hyperlactation may make nursing more difficult for your baby, but it won't harm her. The good news is it means your body is producing plenty of the food your baby needs to thrive.
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