Pumping for engorged breasts?

Question

I know that pumping isn’t usually a good solution when your breasts are temporarily engorged but this has become a frequent issue for me. I think I’m just producing too much for my little one to keep up with. (He’s gaining weight fine, I just produce a lot). Is it okay to pump just enough to prevent engorgement, if I am still exclusively breastfeeding?

Answer

I struggled with engorged breast all the time with my first. It took me months to figure out how to pump for comfort without making the problem worse. I eventually had to even block feed to get things under control.
With my second, I pumped one time to empty... then began only offering one side at a time and using a Haakaa on the other side. It's been so much better this time. For me, the nipple stimulation from a pump is what makes my overproduction worse... so the Haakaa helps with getting milk out without that stimulation. I've only had mastitis 2 times so far... instead of the million times I had it with my son.

Answer

Pump just until your breasts feel more comfortable and taper it down from there. 
I have had major oversupply with both babies (I usually get mastitis a few times the first few months I’m feeding them). 
I usually pump 1x a day starting at 10 minutes, then after 2 days cut it down to 8, then after another 2 days to 6 min, and so on. I still periodically have to pump it my baby misses a feeding since my boobs are part heifer. It also helps me to take a nice hot shower and think about my baby and feeding them to induce a let down. That typically is just enough to take the edge off. 
Your supply should regulate pretty quickly. Mine usually takes about 3-3.5 months to be “just right”.

Pumping for engorged breasts?

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