Can you start pumping again after stopping for a week??

Luckie519

This is more of a pumping question, so I'm sorry if this is not the right place to be posting.

I started BF DD immediately after she was born. The first week went really well, but the second week, things went downhill. I developed mastitis in both breasts. My OBGYN said it was one of the worst cases he had seen.

I stopped BF because it was too painful and started pumping, which also hurt too. I was only pumping .25 oz between both breasts at each pump session (every 3 hours). I became frustrated and just have up, so I stopped pumping.

Now, a week later, my mastitis is gone and I feel much better. I'm regretting the fact I stopped. Is it possible to start pumping again? For now, I'd like to just pump. I'm scared to death of getting mastitis again. I'm just curious if it's possible to start back up again? I was leaking a bit yesterday, so I'm still lactating. Also, my OBGYN said most women's supply comes back up once the mastitis clears up, but now I'm afraid with the mastitis and stopping, I've screwed myself.

Anyone have any experience or advice? TIA!

sishamarie

No expirence, but i would think it would be beneficial to pump, and pump often to regain milk supply.

knittinlins

I have heard this referred to as re-lactating and i think it is possible. I am currently trying to up my supply after EPing for the last month because I want to try bfing one last time.

mommatotwo2

Well, there is no harm in trying, for sure. I'd get the baby back to the breast ASAP, that will be your biggest challenge, if she's been mostly bottle fed. Breastfeed at least every 2 hours, every 3 at night, and on demand as often as baby wants. If you can't get baby to the breast, I'd rent a hospital grade pump, and pump every 2 hours, around the clock, every 3 at night minimally. Lots of water, rest, good nutrition (plenty of calories). I'd probably call an LC and ask for their advice on starting up again. You will have done some damage to your supply this early in the game, but anyone could certainly understand why you had to stop- though for future reference, and I've never had mastitis, so I am only speaking from what I've heard/read- it's really best to keep nursing through it, it helps clear the infection.  At any rate, good luck and definitely don't feel guilty- even giving your baby that first week of breastfeeding was a huge benefit and formula really is ok.