What If Your Milk Supply Is Actually Perfect?

I’ve got a bit of a rant for you today. It’s not the typical how-to or pump comparison post—but rather something that’s been bugging me every time I scroll through social media. There’s this one phrase that keeps popping up, and honestly? It makes me cringe every time I hear it.

It’s a term that’s meant to be positive—maybe even a little proud—but underneath, it carries this heavy emotional weight that so many moms feel when they’re breastfeeding or pumping.

So, here’s my little PSA for every pumping mom, breastfeeding mom, or combo-feeding mom out there. Let’s talk about this term, what it really means, how it might be impacting your mindset and your milk supply—and why I’d really love to replace it with something better.

(This post was originally a video. Check it out, here!)

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Let’s Talk About the Phrase: “Just Enougher”

You’ve probably heard this one before, or maybe even said it yourself:

“I’m a just enougher.”

Or…

“I can’t afford to miss a pump—I make just enough.”

It’s usually said with a mix of pride and panic. And I get it. Saying you’re a “just enougher” means you’re working so hard to meet your baby’s needs, and you’re doing everything you can to hold on to that supply. But what it also implies—often unintentionally—is that your body is barely keeping up. That you’re on the edge. That your milk supply is fragile or somehow not enough.

And that, my friend, is not true.

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The Truth About Being “Just Enough”

Here’s the real story: if you are making enough milk to meet your baby’s needs—you are doing exactly what your body is supposed to do.

You’re not “just” anything.

You’re doing a perfect job.

Here’s the thing that often gets overlooked: most babies need about 24–30 ounces of breast milk per day once your milk supply has regulated after the first few weeks. If you’re producing that amount—whether through direct breastfeeding, pumping, or a combo—you are exactly enough. Not barely. Not almost. Not “just.”

Let’s also be really clear about this: oversupply is not the goal.

I know it might look like the dream when you see someone online with an overflowing freezer stash, but an oversupply can actually bring problems like clogged ducts, mastitis, longer pump sessions, and feeding issues for your baby. More milk isn’t always better.

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So… What Should We Say Instead?

Let me introduce a new term I’d love to see us adopt instead of “just enougher.”

Ready?

Perfect Amounter.

I know—it’s a little awkward. But stay with me.

“I’m a perfect amounter. I make exactly what my baby needs.”

Say that out loud. Seriously. Try it. Doesn’t it feel better?

There’s no “just” in there. No lack. No desperation. Just confidence. Clarity. Truth.

Because if your baby is gaining weight, having enough wet diapers, and seems generally content, then your body is meeting their needs—and that’s all we can ask for. That’s perfect.

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The Problem with the “Just Enough” Mindset

Here’s where things get tricky. You often don’t hear this term until pumping enters the picture. That’s when we start measuring milk in ounces and milliliters, tracking every drop, and comparing ourselves to every Instagram post or YouTube tutorial out there.

It’s easy to fall into this trap:

“I’m pumping 25 ounces a day—barely keeping up.”

But what did we expect?

If your baby is managing your supply through regular breastfeeding, your body is incredibly efficient. It’s not going to waste energy making more than your baby needs. That’s just smart biology.

When we introduce pumping, we suddenly gain data—but also doubt. And that’s when so many moms start feeling like they’re falling short, even when they’re meeting every single one of their baby’s needs.

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The “Perfect Amounter” Mindset

I want to shift your perspective. Here’s how you can start embracing the Perfect Amounter Mindset—even if you’re exclusively pumping or combining breast and bottle:

1. Stop Comparing Yourself to Overproducers

That mom who makes 50 ounces a day isn’t doing better than you—she’s just on a different journey. You don’t need to match her. You just need to feed your baby.

2. Be Aware of Social Media and Marketing

Some brands want you to believe you’re not enough unless you’re filling four bottles per pump session. That’s not the reality for most people. Be skeptical. Protect your mindset.

3. Celebrate How Your Body Adjusts

Your supply is supposed to regulate. It will fluctuate with growth spurts, illness, or even hormonal shifts. This flexibility is a feature, not a flaw.

4. Low Pump Output ≠ Low Supply

Say it with me: what you pump is not the full picture of your supply. Pump output only measures what the pump can remove—not necessarily what’s available to your baby.

5. Trust Your Baby’s Cues

If your baby is growing, peeing, and seems satisfied—you’re doing great. Period. No app, chart, or freezer stash can replace that real-time feedback from your baby.

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You Are Doing Enough. You Are Enough.

I know how easy it is to feel like you’re falling short—especially when you’re measuring everything and scrolling through highlight reels of other moms’ milk hauls. But the truth is, feeding your baby is not about chasing excess.

It’s about being present. Trusting your body. Trusting your baby.

“I make exactly what my baby needs. I’m a perfect amounter.”

I want that to be your new mantra. Let’s retire “just enougher” for good.

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Need Support?

If you’re struggling with supply, worried about your pumping routine, or just want someone to help you create a sustainable back-to-work plan—I’m here for you.

👉 I’ve created a free guide with the 7 steps to building a successful back-to-work breastfeeding plan. You can grab it right here.

And if you’re ready for more support, check out our coaching program for pumping working moms who want to protect their milk supply and thrive in their careers.

You’ve got this. Let’s stop saying “just” and start saying “perfect.”

Happy pumping!