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From pumping to breastfeeding

KCbabyKCbaby
in Preemies

After 27 days in NICU, my LO is finally home! While in NICU, I pumped BM for him. Now that we are home, I am BFing.

While in NICU, I was able to pump 2 -3oz per session and stored the extra milk in the freezer. With BFing, LO only drinks 1.5 oz or so per feeding and I only BF on one side. Since my breast still feels full afterwards, I pump that one side after each feeding.

My question is: Should I be pumping at all after each feeding? If so, should I pump on one or both breasts? or should I let my breasts adjust to LO's demand. I am afraid that my supply will decrease and never catch up again when LO starts to eat more.

Advice ladies?

Thanks!!! 

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Re: From pumping to breastfeeding

  • beachykeen1723beachykeen1723 member
    Keep pumping! It's great if you can have some extra saved. I would pump both breasts. Your body will adjust to LO's demands, but it will be an easier transition if you are pumping. Milk is good in the freezer for 5-6 months, so if you have the time, go for it! You don't have to do it every time, but maybe pump after your last 2 feeds of the day, so that way you get the fattiest milk.
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  • clyoungseyclyoungsey

    My thoughts only...

    "My question is: Should I be pumping at all after each feeding? If so, should I pump on one or both breasts? or should I let my breasts adjust to LO's demand. "

    I would give it awhile to see what happens, pumping in the mean time.  You don't want to loose your supply, but you don't want an over supply either.  A stash is always good to have.  I will save mine as long as my freezer allows.

     

     

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  • Mrs.tlcSMrs.tlcS member

    In my experience, an oversupply is easier to fix than an undersupply.

    I would keep pumping.  However, if you're feeding one breast only at each feeding, I might only fully pump the breast LO did not take (and maybe pump to comfort on the breast LO did take).  The volume they take in a feeding will increase, so you don't want to lose what you've got, but at the same time, overpumping and oversupply can be quite uncomfortable for you.

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  • At1stsightAt1stsight

    Yes, oversupply is easier to fix than undersupply. And it's nice to create a freezer stash. IMO though, you shouldn't pump after each feeding. LO needs to get hindmilk and the more oversupply you have, the more foremilk (low in fat and calories) LO gets. Do one or two extra pumping sessions per day to continue building your stash. And if you're using a freezer attached to your fridge (as opposed to a separate deep freezer), the milk's only good 3-4 months.

    GL!

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