I think my supply is tanking

uagirl

LO takes 3 4 oz bottles during the day while I'm at work.  I was pumping enough to send 3 bottles, plus freeze one more.  Over the past week, I've dropped down to barely pumping enough for her bottles during the day.  I've had to dip into the freezer stash a few times to make sure she had enough to eat. 

Up until a week ago, I was pumping 7-8 ozs at my first session each morning.  Now I'm doing good to get 5.

I'm drinking at least 40ozs of water while I'm at work and another 20-30 at home each night.  I make sure that I'm eating enough, since I've seen my supply take a hit before when I don't.  I eat 2 packs of oatmeal each day for breakfast and I started taking More Milk Plus tincture last Saturday.  So far, no increase.  My supply has actually dropped more while taking it.  

I've added an extra pumping session at night after LO is in bed to see if I can help boost my supply.  Any other suggestions? 

MrsAO

When I was pumping and needed to produce more, if helped to add on a few minutes more of pumping at each session (maybe 5 for starters).  It took a few days to notice a difference but it did signficantly help.  I EP'd for 2.5 months.  Maybe the more successful BF ladies will have more/better advice.

Leelee06

MrsAO:

When I was pumping and needed to produce more, if helped to add on a few minutes more of pumping at each session (maybe 5 for starters).  It took a few days to notice a difference but it did signficantly help.  I EP'd for 2.5 months.  Maybe the more successful BF ladies will have more/better advice.

I did this too.  I pumped until no more milk came out, which ended up being 5-7 more minutes than usual.  This did mean I pumped for nearly 30 minutes, but I got a good amount of milk.  

You're doing everything right to increase your supply.  Have you been taking any antihistamines or decongestants?  That makes a huge difference in your supply.

ameliaandmatt

I also EPd for 2 months.  I would always pump until I was completely empty, plus an extra minute or two afterwards.  Have you tried the mother's milk teas?  They taste pretty nasty but I'd add a spoonfull or two of organic honey into it to make it a little bit more bearable.  I'd drink a cup of tea at each pumping session, plus I was taking fenugreek capsules.  Maybe after you nurse her you could try pumping afterwards to see if that helps get your supply back up.  Good luck!

MissLMS

It sounds like you are doing everything right. Try not to stress out. My bet is that your supply will recover.

amandabrooke81

All of those PP are great suggestions.  Just to put you at ease, I remember my supply fluctating at different times- but that doesn't mean your supply will ultimately taper off. We didn't wean until I chose to (started @ 9.5mos ended completely @ 10.5mos)

Also, I LOVE the lactation cookies! I'm honestly looking forward to having a reason to make these again Of course, what's not to like with all that butter, sugar & chocolate chips. Here's the food.com link https://www.food.com/recipe/oatmeal-chocolate-chip-lactation-cookies-by-noel-trujillo-192346

Also, you might want to page Sarah. I think she did a "nurse-in" with Avery once when her supply dropped? I think one of the best ways to up your supply will be to put Miss C to your breast more if possible (of course, I know it's not always possible with work schedule, logistics of travel, etc.)

ricejl

One thing I have heard is to look at pictures of your LO while you are pumping. I try not to be distracted at all when I pump, I've noticed that I don't get as much when I'm focused on something else. I hope it recovers soon!

sdkrlm

good luck!  your supply can definitely have ups and downs.  When I'd have a seemingly low supply, I would try to just add a few more pumping sessions (even short, 5 minutes) will help stimulate the breasts to make more milk.

I would pump at night after I fed Avery also just to add additional stimulation and be able to get an extra ounce or so. 

It sounds like you're doing everything right...just keep at it!