I'm a FTM trying to BF. DS latch is so painful that I can't BF so I've been pumping. My supply is really low and most sessions I don't get more than 2 oz.
Yesterday I was traveling all day and didn't get a chance to express any milk. Then today when I tried to pump I couldn't get even a 1/2 oz from both breast combined.
I'm kind of freaking out because I really wanted to just BF, then when that didn't work out I got used to the idea of supplementing with formula and now I'm worried that I'll only be able to do formula. I feel like I'm failing.
Anyway, is there a way to increase my supply? If I keep pumping will it pick back up again?
Thank you very much for any advice you can give me. I need it!
Re: How can I increase supply? Please help!
I'm a second time mom and i am having low supply issues, too. Never had this problem with DS. I just looked at this site, but also met with a lactation consultant yesterday.
when you traveled yesterday, did you you breastfeed? I do know that you have to stay on top of this...if not, you'll never recoup.
GL
All of this. I have heard women on here say eating oatmeal can help. I drank mothers milk tea to help increase mine.
I agree with PP. I am 5 months in and have EBF my daughter the entire time. I eat oatmeal everyday and anytime that I've missed a day of oatmeal, I could tell a difference in my supply. Also, drink as much water as you can. I try to drink a glass or bottle of water each time I pump or BF. Fenugreek and blessed thistle (herbs) helped to boost my supply when I experienced a lull. You HAVE to pump as often as your child eats in order to maintain your supply. It might be a good idea to invest in a hands-free pumping bra and a car adapter so you can pump in the car. It has been a great help to me when work prevented me from pumping.
Also, your prolactin levels are highest in the morning so you should get a greater output in the morning when you pump. I can get 8 ounces from one side when I pump at 5 am (after going all night without feeding on that side). It is definitely possible to build your supply but you are going to have to stick with it. Don't give up!
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This. I EP and I pump every 3 hours, except at night(STTN) Your milk is supply and demand.. If you don't demand it, the body won't supply it. I only get about 5 oz total each session(except my AM session) which seems a little low but I keep up with her needs during the day and have a small freezer stash.
Everything PPs said. I wanted to add that More Milk Plus works crazy well and fast for me. I take a partial dose in the mornings and by my lunchtime pump I've been getting around 4-5 oz. I did an experiment the other day and took a partial dose before bed and I woke up somewhat engorged after 5 hours. I pumped and got 7.5 oz, then when on the way to work I pumped another 3. I won't be taking the evening dose anymore, but it helped prove to me that it does work.