Leaking is a super common (and often surprising!) part of breastfeeding.
It happens because of how your body regulates milk supply and responds to hormones. Here’s the breakdown:
There is a really beautiful side to breast milk leaks - something that many mums find frustrating at first but can also be seen as a quiet, powerful reminder of
your body’s connection to your baby.
1. The Hormone Response
(The Let-down reflex)
When your baby latches (or sometimes even when you think about your baby),
your brain releases oxytocin.
Oxytocin triggers the tiny muscles around the milk-making cells in your breasts to contract and push milk out — this is the “let-down reflex.”
Since both breasts are connected to the same hormonal signal, milk can flow (or leak) from the other breast while your baby feeds.
2. Oversupply or Full Breasts
In the early weeks, your body makes more milk than your baby needs while it’s figuring out supply.
When your breasts are very full, milk can leak spontaneously because of the pressure inside.
3. Triggers Beyond Feeding
Hearing your baby cry
Thinking about feeding
Warm showers (heat dilates ducts and relaxes muscles)
Physical stimulation (tight clothing / pressure)
All of these can cause milk let-down, leading to unexpected leaks.
4. Natural Pressure Release
Leaking is your body’s way of preventing engorgement and clogged ducts by releasing small amounts of milk.
Over time, as supply and demand balance out, leaking usually decreases or stops.
Ways to Manage or Reduce Leaking
1. Leakproof Nursing Bras
Soft, wire-free bralettes with built-in leakproof layers are a popular choice for convenience and confidence.
Obviously, imperative to not wear overly saturated bras and change them regularly to avoid dampness (which can irritate skin).
2. Apply Pressure
If you feel a let-down coming on (like tingling/fullness), gently press the heel of your hand or cross your arms over your chest to slow or stop flow.
Some mums tuck a clean cloth inside their bra and press discreetly in public if needed.
3. Don't Over Pump
If you pump too often, and unnecessarily, this will cause your body to create more milk that is not needed.
If you’re away from your baby, pumping can help regulate supply and avoid leaks.
4. Use a Milk Collection Shell
Instead of pads that absorb, some shells collect milk from the non-feeding side — so leaks don’t go to waste.
This milk can then be stored and used later.
5. Night Support
A soft, wire-free bra (like your Mumma Milla night bra 😉) can help overnight,
when leaks are often heaviest.
6. Know It Gets Better
For most mums, leaking settles down after the first 6–12 weeks as supply regulates.
It’s a short-term challenge, not forever.
