Pumping

bballwife4

For those ladies that pumped, are pumping, or planning on pumping....when is the best time to start? How often do you do it? How do you work it into your schedule? Sorry, this is my first and I feel a bit clueless. I would appreciate any input

ashleylach

I started pumping right away but I wouldn't recommend that because it can create an oversupply.  I would start out pumping once or twice a day especially in the morning because you'll get the most output then.  Also, if your SO or DH wants to feed the baby a bottle, then you'll pump to replace that feeding. 

It's really when you're comfortable to pump is the best time to do it so when LO's sleeping or if LO is content, then take a 10 minute pumping break and do it really quickly before they wake up or start fussing.  I hope that helps!

tvdiva12

It's best to pump first thing in the morning, that's when your supply is the highest as your milk gets regulated during the night. I usually pump on the opposite side of what DD nursed from and do this every day to build my supply. I go back to work on Monday and I plan on pumping every 2 1/2-3 hours like she would when she eats to keep my supply up and to have bottles for the next day. My goal is not to have to dip into my supply if I don't have to. If you plan on EPing, just set a schedule for yourself when your LO would eat, pump and then give that bottle. Or, when they're eating pump on the other side as it will signal to your body that you have twins and it will make more milk. Good luck! It's hard work but so worth it

starkbaby22

I started pumping around 10 days after DD was born and my milk was in.  I first pumped in the mornings after first feed and then after 2nd feed, because I still felt engorged.  I went back to work at 3 weeks and started pumping every 2-3 hours to keep up supply.  I have been able to build a very nice stash because I was very dedicated to the schedule.  Now, at 10 weeks PP, I pretty much exclusively pump with the occassional nursing session, but I can go 4-6 hours between pumps and get about 6-7 oz.   

Totally agree with PP, it's hard work, but SO worth it!

firstmom2b

I've been using the nipple guard to nurse, so in my case, I have to pump, but even so, I barely do - as it doesn't seem necessary yet (my supply is fine).

 But from what I've read, you pump in the beginning for practice and just to prep your body for good supply later on. If you plan to pump for work, start pumping and putting stuff away for that about 2 weeks prior. 

 I think 2 to 3 times a day is definitely good enough - that's what I'm doing. I actually don't time it, I just wait for one of the "receptacles" to fill up - probably not a good strategy. I produce about 4 oz every time I pump. Reason I stopped timing is it because my LO sometimes will want food unexpectedly and I don't want to be drained right before he starts asking - it's a conundrum, advice appreciated : )