Breastfeeding?

Question

My hubby and I are ttc and I want to breastfeed. I know that lots of women have trouble producing milk the first few days/weeks. But dont you leak a little before u have your baby? So my question is, can you pump your breastmilk before the baby is born to help get your milk started???

Answer

Some women can but you really shouldn't. The FIRST breast feeding that the baby has is more than just milk it's called colostrum. There is a huge shot of protein to help boost the baby's immunity. You want to make sure that the baby gets that after birth.

Answer

This can cause premature labor and is not recommended unless directed to do so by your physician. I would definitely recommend speaking to your doctor before attempting to pump while pregnant. I hope this helps :-)

Answer

This is a good question for a lactation consultant. I think most women do not produce much, if any, before the baby arrives.

Answer

What the others said! Also if you don't pump a lot out once baby is here, don't worry. Some women just don't response to the pump well - does NOT mean your baby isn't getting enough milk straight from the source. When I pumped I was lucky to get maybe 2 oz total in 20-30 min but my DD was a chunk (exclusively BF for 1 year before introducing solids) and off the charts for height and weight.

Answer

You leak colostrum not milk. Milk comes in after baby is born. Pumping before hand causes sore cracked nipples and can cause premature labor. Don't do that. Babies stomachs are the size of marbles when they are born. They can't even handle a lot of milk for a few days.

Answer

Everyone is different. I for one didnt leak a drop while I was pregnant. It took a couple a days for my milk to acutually start coming down. I even spiked a fever in the process. It all depends on how things happen for you.

Answer

If I remember right.. once the placenta comes out a certain hormone is released that prompts the body to start milk production, google that and I'm sure it will help answer this question. You can try to pump but idk if anything will come out - it just like stimulates the area..?

Answer

Also, babies don't need a lot their first few days. I'd just get in touch with someone knowledgeable about your fears and have them help you to understand the process.

Answer

Thanks everyone!

Breastfeeding?

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