Breastmilk storage capacity

What exactly is breast milk storage capacity? 

Breast milk storage capacity refers to the volume of milk that can be held in the breasts at their fullest. It's a common misconception that this capacity is determined by breast size; however, it actually depends on the amount of milk-producing glandular tissue present. 

It's impossible to gauge a mother’s milk storage capacity simply by looking at her breast size. Each woman possesses a distinct combination of fatty tissue and milk-secreting glands. Research indicates a considerable range, with some mothers having as few as three milk lobules or ducts, while others may have up to fifteen.

How does storage capacity influence breastfeeding patterns? 

Now, let’s imagine two mothers with babies of the same age, both of whom have an established milk supply. One mother can store 75ml of milk per breast, while the other has a storage capacity of 150ml per breast. Both babies require roughly 750ml of milk daily. In this case, the mother with the lower storage capacity will need to breastfeed more frequently to satisfy her baby’s needs, whereas the mother with the higher capacity can feed less often.

While both babies receive adequate milk for their growth and development, their feeding routines do differ.

Issues can arise when mothers receive generalised advice, such as aiming for eight breastfeeding sessions in a 24-hour period, or adhering to rigid feeding and sleep schedules that overlook individual differences in storage capacity. A mother with a lower storage capacity who follows this advice might find herself with a hungry baby and a reduced milk supply, as her breasts may not be emptied often enough to stimulate sufficient production.

Mothers with higher storage capacity have greater flexibility in their feeding schedules, while those with lower capacity need to feed more frequently to prevent fullness and ensure ongoing milk production.

The important thing to remember is that the more often you empty your breasts, the more milk you will make. The fuller your breasts, the slower your milk production.

Typically, babies feed 8-12 times within a 24-hour timeframe, and frequent milk removal in the early weeks is crucial for establishing long-term milk supply. I can’t emphasise that understanding these variations is key to fostering a successful breastfeeding journey. 

The best advice I can give you is to be responsive to your baby's feeding cues, offer the breast frequently and flexibly.

Can you increase breast milk storage capacity?

Although it's not possible to increase your breast milk storage capacity, this aspect does not influence your overall milk production. A recent study conducted by Dr. Sharon Perrella has demonstrated that a mother’s breast milk storage capacity does not significantly increase with subsequent pregnancies. The research, which involved measuring storage capacity in mothers across multiple pregnancies, revealed only minimal changes among the participants. This finding suggests that storage capacity remains relatively stable, regardless of the number of pregnancies a mother has experienced.

However, it's essential to understand that your storage capacity doesn't determine your ability to breastfeed successfully; it simply influences the frequency your baby will need or want to feed.

Understanding and Adjusting to Storage Capacity

The variability in milk storage capacity highlights the significance of personalised care and tuning into your baby's needs. Trusting your body’s ability to nourish your child and seeking support when necessary are vital components of a successful breastfeeding journey. Regardless of whether your storage capacity is high or low, the right strategies can help you meet your baby’s requirements.

By recognising and adapting to your breast milk storage capacity, you can establish a feeding routine that suits both you and your baby. Again, I will emphasise the importance of observing your baby's feeding cues and responding to their needs.

Keeping track of your baby's nappy output and ensuring plenty of wet and dirty nappies will provide you with key indicators of a thriving breastfeeding relationship. If you have any concerns regarding milk supply, reaching out for professional guidance can provide you with tailored, evidence-based solutions.

Breast milk storage capacity highlights the individuality of each mother's breastfeeding journey. By understanding and adapting to your specific capacity, you can establish a feeding pattern that supports your baby's growth and development. Trust in your body's ability to nurture your child, and don’t hesitate to seek support when necessary. You can have a rewarding and successful breastfeeding journey with the right strategies.

By being attentive to your baby's needs and adapting accordingly, you can create a feeding routine that suits both of you, ensuring your baby thrives and flourishes.