Chronic lactation insufficiency/chronic low milk supply

Chronic lactation insufficiency (CLI), also known as chronic low milk supply (CLMS), is the production of less milk than is required to exclusively feed an infant for the duration of the feeding relationship, despite following best practices and the adequate management of infant-side complications. CLI/CLMS is distinct from other experiences of low milk supply in that it persists long-term.

These best practices encompass support from lactation professionals, including with latch and positioning; frequent removal of milk through nursing and/or pumping; and keeping the parent-infant dyad together. Infant-side complications include issues with the infant's oral anatomy such as ties or cleft palate; prematurity; and any other issues that could affect oral motor skills and/or effective milk removal.

An estimated 5-15% of lactating parents experience chronic lactation insufficiency.

Source: Lee, S. & Kelleher, S. L. Biological underpinnings of breastfeeding challenges: the role of genetics, diet, and environment on lactation physiology. Am. J. Physiol. Endocrinol. Metab. 311, E405–22 (2016). 

Lactating Parent

When referring to people who produce milk (lactate) we often use the term “lactating parent” rather than “woman” or “mother.” The Low Milk Supply Foundation’s core mission is to advocate for all people who experience chronic low milk supply, and that includes lactating persons who do not identify as mothers. While all mothers are inherently parents, not all people who are able to carry a baby or lactate identify as mothers. If you identify as a woman and a mother, that’s great! It is not our wish to diminish or dismiss your experience. Rather, by using the word “parent,” our goal is to hold space for others to be supported as well.

Breastfeeding/Chestfeeding

Breastfeeding or chestfeeding refers to the act of providing milk at the breast or chest, either from a human nipple, an SNS/supply line, or both. We may use these terms together or interchangeably to acknowledge that not all parents who feed their babies in this way identify as having breasts. See our gender statement above.

Breast/chestfeeding is also distinct from lactating. A parent can lactate without breast/chestfeeding. Many parents pump or express milk and feed it to their baby using a bottle, cup, syringe or other feeding method. There are many parents who exclusively express; they pump/express milk and rarely or never latch. Some people who express milk also use the term breastfeeding/chestfeeding.