BM supply seems to be dwindling

charab33

My milk came in on Saturday, and I started pumping the next day.  LO seems to be eating well, and I have been pumping pretty well, but yesterday it seemed like I could only get about 2 oz./20-30 minute pumping session.  The day before I was doing about 6oz.  Where did all the milk go???  I don't go back to work for a while, but I want to build up a decent stash.  How can I produce more milk?  This also makes me question if LO is getting enough.  He nurses for about 20 minutes on average every 2-3 hours.  Is this enough?

elsaklynch

Have you tried Fenugreek tea or those infusion drinks that are made to boost supply? Here's one...worth a shot: https://www.mamaista.com/2009/12/18/breastfeeding-made-easy/

Rizzo5

Don't go by pump output regarding if baby is getting enough.  Does LO have about 6-8 wet/dirty diapers in a day?  If so then you're fine.  Is LO gaining weight?  If so...again your fine.  I had to start pumping right away b/c DD was in the NICU for a bit but (and I don't know you're direct situation) if I were you I'd put the pump down for the next few weeks and BF only.  The pump doesn't get your milk going nearly as good as baby does.Personally I feel this is why my supply is so terrible.  I now have to FF and BF.

Rizzo5

Also...if you do want to start building a stash right away...one thing you could do is pump for about 10-15 min AFTER nursing.  This is something my LC recommended. 

charab33

I have been pumping for 10-15/breast after BF 2-3X/day.  Our pedi said not to do more than that for now.  Maybe I will put the pump down for a little while.  I just want to be prepared for when I do go back to work and I want my "ladies" to be used to the pump so while I'm at work I can pump enough for LO.  Thanks.

julyjennifer

I agree with the PP who said not to go by the pumping out put for figuring out what your supply is doing right now.

Based on what you said about how your LO feeds, it sounds like you are doing just fine.

Your LO is just over a week old.  Your supply is still regulating.  Maybe all the extra milk is going...into your LO!  Your LO may be getting the hang of things and getting more efficient at getting your fabulous mama milk into him or her!   I would put the pump aside for another week and a half--let your LO set your supply, then add in 1-2 pumping sessions after that.

When you go back to work, your gals will be used to making all the milk your LO usually drinks during the day.  They will probably have no problem and you will be just fine!

Rest, nurse on demand, sleep, drink plenty of water and eat plenty of good food--you are doing great!