pumping question

Team Kimball

Sorry if I'm posting this in the wrong spot- I thought there was a breastfeeding board but I can't find it. So I started to get back into pumping after a hiatus (thrush) and have noticed that my left breast isn't producing when pumped. One night I tried doing compressions and got a full 4 ounces. Any ideas of why I now have to do compressions in order for milk to come? It's a pain b/c it makes pumping no longer hands free and a lot more work on my end! I use one of those hands-free bra's which may be too big, could that possibly be the problem for some reason? Anyone else have this happen?

lightgetsin

I think if you keep at it, it will come back to normal.

daniella2727

i don't have an answer for you but i have to do compression's too, not to get milk out, but to maximize the amount I get out.  I don't do it the whole time as I too use a hand free bra and work while I pump. But I agree that if you keep at it hopefully you won't have to do it in the future. Maybe that breast needs a stronger suciton?

poppyc8

i have to do compressions too.  not the whole time.  usually at the half way point.  i also find i get WAY more when i only do one breast at a time.  not sure why...sometimes i use a stronger suction level for one side and that helps

Team Kimball

I think you're right about the suction, out of curiosity, what hands-free bra do you use? I'm wondering if I should just cut holes into a sports bra b/c the one I have isn't supportive and I think I'd be better of if it had straps...

horsevaulter

We cut holes in a sports bra and it is pretty nice! Just make the holes a little smaller than you think they should be so it holds tighter. I get more when I do both breasts at the same time with my pump.. I agree you should just keep pumping and it will hopefully return to normal soon