You are currently viewing: Medela - English
You can select an alternative Medela website in one of these countries:

Products

Breastfeeding Challenges

Mammary Hypoplasia: What To Do If You’re Diagnosed

Time to read: 4 min.

Mammary hypoplasia, also known as insufficient glandular tissue or IGT, is a very uncommon condition that can cause low or no milk production.

A mom breastfeeding her baby and supplementing the diet using Medela's Supplemental Nursing System™ (SNS).

You’ve probably heard about how breastfeeding is normal and natural – and it is, in most cases. Most women are capable of making enough milk for their babies to be healthy and happy, but some women are simply physically unable to produce milk despite their best efforts.

Mammary hypoplasia, also known as insufficient glandular tissue or IGT, is a very uncommon condition that can cause low or no milk production. Women with mammary hypoplasia simply did not develop proper mammary tissue during adolescence, but their breasts may be small or large.

Signs of Breast Hypoplasia

Signs of mammary hypoplasia include:

  • Narrow, widely spaced breasts
  • Areolas appear swollen or puffy
  • Asymmetrical breasts, where one is much larger than the other
  • Breasts do not grow or change during pregnancy, and milk never “comes in” around 3 days after giving birth

When it appears that a mom’s body doesn’t make enough milk to feed her baby, it’s important to first explore all the possible causes, such as latch and positioning, breastfeeding habits (such as supplementing with formula), and the possibility of baby having tongue tie or other oral issues. If you think you may have mammary hypoplasia, reach out to a lactation consultant or your healthcare provider. They can help rule out other factors that could be causing low supply and suggest options such as supplementing feedings at the breast with aSupplemental Nursing System (SNS), finding a milk donation center, or pumping and bottle-feeding as much milk as you’re able to make.

Above all else, know that it’s okay – don’t be hard on yourself because you have trouble making breast milk. Enjoy your breastfeeding experience – you’re making a big difference in your little one’s health and well-being.

Related Products
Medela Symphony® breast pump | INITIATE. MAINTAIN.

Symphony PLUS® breast pump

Engineered with Initiation Technology™ proven to help mothers initiate, build, and maintain their breast milk supply

Read more
Medela Reusable bottles 2.7 oz, designed for collecting, storing, handling, pasteurizing and feeding breast milk

80 mL Breast Milk Containers, 12 count

Read more
Medela PersonalFit™ PLUS breast shield side view

PersonalFit™ PLUS Breast Shields

PersonalFit™ PLUS Breast Shields are clinically proven to deliver more milk and more comfort

Read more
Medela Symphony® breast pump | INITIATE. MAINTAIN.

Symphony PLUS® breast pump

Engineered with Initiation Technology™ proven to help mothers initiate, build, and maintain their breast milk supply

Read more
Medela Reusable bottles 2.7 oz, designed for collecting, storing, handling, pasteurizing and feeding breast milk

80 mL Breast Milk Containers, 12 count

Read more
Medela PersonalFit™ PLUS breast shield side view

PersonalFit™ PLUS Breast Shields

PersonalFit™ PLUS Breast Shields are clinically proven to deliver more milk and more comfort

Read more
Related Articles

Articles that may be of interest

Breastfeeding Challenges

Too little breast milk? How to increase low milk supply

Read more
Medela advice breastfeeding special needs baby
Inclusive Breast Milk Feeding

Feeding a special needs baby

Read more
Inclusive Breast Milk Feeding

What is the Medela SpecialNeeds Feeder?

Read more
Breastfeeding Challenges

Too little breast milk? How to increase low milk supply

Read more
Medela advice breastfeeding special needs baby
Inclusive Breast Milk Feeding

Feeding a special needs baby

Read more
Inclusive Breast Milk Feeding

What is the Medela SpecialNeeds Feeder?

Read more

Get the app!

The Medela Family app helps you to keep track of your baby’s needs from pregnancy to nursery.


  • Pregnancy
  • Breastfeeding
  • Pumping