Your baby suddenly wants to breastfeed constantly, is unsettled at the breast, and you feel like your milk is not enough. Welcome to the breastfeeding crisis - a phase most breastfeeding parents experience, and one that thankfully passes.
A breastfeeding crisis is not a sign that something is wrong. It is your body and your baby's natural way of adjusting milk production to your child's growing needs. In this guide, you will learn what is happening, when it typically occurs, and what you can actually do.
What is a breastfeeding crisis?
A breastfeeding crisis is a period when the baby suddenly wants to nurse much more often than usual. The baby may seem dissatisfied at the breast, let go and latch again, and generally be more unsettled than normal.
According to Ammehjelpen, this is about the baby signaling to your body that they need more milk. By breastfeeding more often, the breasts are stimulated to produce more. In other words, it is a smart biological system - not a sign that you have too little milk.
A breastfeeding crisis typically lasts 2-5 days, but this varies from child to child.
When do breastfeeding crises happen?
Breastfeeding crises often follow a pattern linked to the baby's growth periods. The most common times are:
Around 7-10 days
The first breastfeeding crisis often comes soon after milk production has started. The baby is growing quickly and needs more frequent feeds.
Around 3 weeks
Many experience the most intense breastfeeding crisis at around three weeks of age. The baby may want to nurse almost continuously at times, especially in the evening.
Around 6 weeks
Another common breastfeeding crisis. The baby is growing quickly and your body needs to adjust production again.
