Impaired Lactation: Review of Delayed Lactogenesis and Insufficient Lactation

J Midwifery Womens Health. 2021 Sep;66(5):631-640. doi: 10.1111/jmwh.13274. Epub 2021 Oct 1.

Abstract

It is estimated that as many as 1 in 20 women worldwide are unable to successfully breastfeed or provide adequate nutrition for their infants through their breast milk alone. Compromised nutrition in the early stages of life places the infant at risk for insufficient growth as well as serious and potentially disabling or life-threatening complications. This review summarizes risk factors associated with impaired lactation that may result in either delayed lactogenesis or insufficient lactation. The risk factors for insufficient lactation are categorized into preglandular, glandular, and postglandular causes. Impaired lactation can occur despite maternal motivation, knowledge, support, and appropriate breastfeeding technique. Although there is no clear way to predict who will experience impaired lactation, knowledge about the risk factors can enable health care professionals to better identify at-risk mother-infant dyads. Early intervention may help prevent infant complications associated with inadequate nutritional intake.

Keywords: breastfeeding; delayed lactogenesis; failed lactogenesis II; lactation failure; low milk supply.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Breast Feeding*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Lactation
  • Lactation Disorders* / etiology
  • Milk, Human
  • Mothers