I will be returning to work in January when my son is 14 weeks old. I will be away from him from 8am-6pm, so I am guessing about 4-5 feedings. I am guessing I will need to pump 16-20oz.

Right now (at 5 weeks old) I am averaging 2.5-5oz per pump session, but that is what I get between regular feedings on demand. I pump 1-3 times a day depending on how busy the day is. I always make sure I pump at least 4oz which my husband gives at bedtime (I pump at the same time as that feeding while I read to my older daughter), and I store the rest.

My question is, do you think I would need to pump 5 sessions while I am away at work if he is likely to eat 5 times, or could I probably pump 3 sessions if it means I can get the ounces I need? I have a feeling that pumping 5 times is going to make working stressful if I am stepping away to pump every two hours.. 3 sessions seem more manageable, and I could power pump during my lunch session..

I am just thinking out loud and looking for advice to help manage my expectations. I breastfed my older daughter for 14 months before I weaned her, but I was a SAHM then