Pumping Questions??

Question

So, I'm almost 4 weeks pp, and even though I don't go back to work until 10 weeks, I want to start pumping and build up a supply.  It's quite the commitment, and I have a couple of questions.

1.  Was your pumping results less than mediocre at first?  I know I'm going to get less than a normal pumping session since I'm pumping about 30 min after breastfeeding (little one still likes to eat every 2 hrs), but I still feel like I'm maybe getting a 1/2 oz a session.  I've read thT 1.5-2 oz is normal when still breastfeeding.

2.  I know you can mix cold with cold when storing, so if I'm not pumping a lot right now, is it okay to mix from several sessions??

3.  Little girl pees all the time, so I know she's hydrated, but these pumping results make me worry that my supply isn't there :/ like it should be

Answer

Pumping has no indication of your supply. You little one is sooooo much more efficient at getting your milk out then the pump. Also watch everything that is supposed to increase your supply. Sometimes it will do the exact opposite. I suggest finding breastfeeding groups on Facebook for help! Breastfeeding mama talk is great!

Answer

One of the above comments is great - seriously, drink as much water as you can! I go through loads in a day and have a good supply. From what I've read it increases milk production like nothing else.

Answer

Try pumping 30-45 minutes after your first morning feeding. That's when I usually get the best results.

Answer

Drink a lot of water! As much or more than when you were pregnant! I am exclusively pumping and bottle feeding breast milk and I can pump 8-10 oz total from both boobs each pump session. I drink a ton of water and when I don't drink enough water, my pumping results are noticeably less.

Answer

You can put them together once they are both cold. So temporarily store them separate in the fridge then add them together once they are both cold.

That's what I was pumping at first. Your baby is more efficient than the pump so she is probably getting more than that. As long as she is gaining weight like she should and has wet diapers she's good.

To increase my supply I started taking fenugreek and made lactation cookies. Now I pump (usually) a minimum of 2 oz total each time

Pumping Questions??

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