Stash Question (very long and complicated)

halliejo

My baby girl is 3.5 weeks, and I have to go back to my internship (basically a PT job) in 2.5 weeks and back to my "real" PT job in 4.5 weeks. I have been EBF since she was born, but I had been pumping in the mornings since she was a week old. However, we both got thrush last week, and before I knew about it, I combined that milk with the previously pumped milk. I do not want  to get  thrush again, so I don't want to pump again until we're done with our meds. Once I'm back at both jobs, I will work 4 hours Monday-Thursday mornings and 4 hours M-F afternoons with an hour in between, including travel time. Also, I have class for 3 hours on Tuesday nights (where I will NOT be able to pump.) When I pump without feeding her on the other side, I only get about 1/2 of what I get from pumping while nursing. She eats about every 3 hours. Is there any way I'll be able to build up enough of a stash with what little time of leave I have left? Am I going to have to supplement with formula? I'm so discouraged, and I cry every time I think about not being able to give her BM..

katxattack

I have been told that thrush milk is ok to use later. Just be sure to clean pump parts well and steam sterilize once or twice a day.

You may want to start pumping the opposite side that you feed from every feeding. That will help build your supply, and lessen the chance you will need to supplement.

pitterpatter129

I went back to work full time with zero frozen milk! I just feed whatever I pump the next day. Don't stress over it too much; it all works out. I should add that I only pump about 8 oz a day - exactly what he eats at daycare. I just pump at home in the morning/night to make up any lacking amounts.

mesmom2011

I have a small stash, but I do anything I can to avoid using it.  I pump the milk LO needs for the next day and I do not supplement with formula.  It sounds like you could pump in your car if needed, but I would say you should be fine.