Low supply is the inability to produce enough milk to exclusively feed an infant. This can be the result of anatomical challenges (such as insufficient glandular tissue or prior breast surgery), hormonal imbalances, inefficient breast milk removal, blood loss during delivery, or certain medical conditions including hypothyroidism and PCOS. The cause can also be unknown. For parents with low milk supply, combo feeding can help make up the difference between what their baby needs and what they are able to produce.

While pumping protections at work have improved in recent years, it can still be very difficult for someparents to pump at work. Additionally, some women don’t respond to a pump as effectively as they do with their baby, resulting in less milk output than their baby typically drinks. Combo feeding provides working parents the opportunity to supplement their expressed milk, or to skip pumping on the job entirely.

Exclusive breastfeeding is time-consuming, and unfortunately it’s a task that cannot be delegated to a non-lactating parent. Some families combo feed because it allows both parents to share the experience (and the responsibility!) of feeding, and provides another avenue for bonding for a non-lactating parent.

An unfortunate reality. The stress some women have about producing enough milk further reduces their ability to produce.High cortisol levels have been shown to impact prolactin levels, and prolactin levels must remain high to produce breast milk! Adding formula to your baby’s diet may help reduce stress for some families, making the feeding experience more enjoyable overall.