help please - low flow or supply

abcmom12

So I'm driving myself crazy. My DD2 is 3wks3days now and I am still questioning my supply. Backstory, had to supplement with DD cause I didn't make enough milk. So bad I could pump all day and maybe get 2oz. Done better with DD2 but still have nights or horrible cluster feedings when she's at the titty every 30mins for several hours like tonight. Been letting her at the boobs when ever she wants and kick her off when she's falling asleep. Today I was offering both boobs each feeding instead of alternating per and it seemed to work better. Shorter feedings and nice long naps until around 7 when it's hungry hippo pulling, screaming and hitting the boobs for more. I have been compressing, drink a lot of water and eat healthy. She has a great latch and strong suck. Far as I can tell she's gaining weight and we get lots of wet and poopy diapers. I also hand compress after each feeding to help drain the boobs. What can I do to increase my flow and make more? Getting blessed thistle and fenugreek tomorrow but how much should I take a day? I'm trying not to crack and supplement again (had to Mon morning at 4a.m. after a 5hr cluster feeding from hell- had nothing left to give and was exhausted) been too nervous to pump in case I don't have enough for the next feeding. Please help, I can't go through this hell again a in and really want to breastfeed exclusively.

clwheel

Deep breath mama. That sounds about normal for that age. Some of the cluster feed may have been comfort sucking too. Sounds like you are doing everything right, I'm not sure I would start supplementing. 4 weeks there is a growth spurt too so maybe she hit it early

Kfran84

Sounds like you are doing great! There is a growth spurt at 3 weeks, which it sounds like you are in the middle of! You can get those herbal items if you want or make (or have someone make for you) lactation cookies. The recipe I always used can be found by googling Dr Momma lactation cookies.

3 wk growth spurt was hard. I feel your pain, but I think you're doing everything right.

abcmom12

Pumped after my morning feed and got an ounce! Going to track my output to see if it increases. Also I thought you should just pump 10-15 mins after nursing? 20 seems excessive unless you meant for just a pump session.

Melody330

Please do not track your output. What you pump in addition to nursing has absolutely NO bearing on your supply for baby. You will only stress yourself out.

20 minutes is bare minimum in most cases. 10 minutes is entirely too short.

I highly suggest you put the pump away and just put baby to breast as much as she needs. Please understand everything that baby is doing is completely normal for her age.