BF help!!!

MelRoy

My son is now 3 weeks, and bf has been going pretty good so far.  He is a very hungry boy, feeding every 1-2 hours for atleast 30 minutes total.  Since I will have to go back to work in 5 weeks, I started pumping this week after feedings (what an evil machine that is!).  I don't get much, not even 1/2 ounce.  Is this normal?  I asked the LC, and all she could tell me is my son is getting enough now based on his diaper count and weight gain.  Also, moms of older babies, how often does your baby eat and for how long each time?  TIA for any help!

linzpinz14

I suck at pumping.  So I'm not the best to give advice, but some of the advice I've got is to try to pump between feedings in addition to right after.  If you pump right after he ate, you may not have as much left.  Also try to think about him/ look at his picture when you pump.  Just keep pumping and hopefully you'll start to get more.  Good luck!

kmgourley

It is completely normal to get that much both right after feedings, and just in general when you first start to pump.  You have to learn pumping 'technique' and your body has to get used to it.  Look at the pumping stuff on kellymom.com for more info. 

My baby is way to distracted to remember to eat   BUT, I feed him about every 2 hours during the day when I am with him.  He eats for about 5 minutes, usually.  I am gone 8:30-6 M-F at school/work and he usually takes 3 bottles with 3.5-4 oz. of milk in them while I'm gone.  I've read that babies should eat approximately 1 oz. for every hour you are gone. 

psychogasm

You might be experiencing a growth spurt...where your son will just want to eat eat eat, and that affects your output when you pump.

You might want to consider a lactation tea or mother's milk tea to help up your production. And your LC is right...if your baby is gaining weight and pooping/peeing regularly, then it's all good. We can't "see" what they're consuming, but the output is good, so don't worry about it!

Good luck. And remember, the pump is your friend. :-)

Linds&Chris777

I was only getting an ounce or so when I first started pumping in the second week.  Just give it a couple more weeks and you'll be able to pump more.  I can pump about 5 oz at a time now and DS will be 5 wks tomorrow.