November 2011 Moms
saraosu22
member
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giving up breastfeeding dream
saraosu22
member
I think I am going to stop breastfeeding because it seems that at this point I am just torturing myself. After being back at work my supply tanked and I have never been able to regain it even after trying milk thistle and fenugreek. It is so frustrating and disappointing as I had originally planned to supply her with breastmilk until 6 months. At this point, I am barely getting 8 ounces after pumping at least 4 or 5 times during the day. 
I just need to get over my disappoinment and move on but it's so hard! Anyone else given up because of supply issues?
I just need to get over my disappoinment and move on but it's so hard! Anyone else given up because of supply issues? This discussion has been closed.
Re: giving up breastfeeding dream
This. Also, are you EPing? Or nursing and pumping? If you are EPing, you need to increase the number of your pumping sessions.
I pump like 4-5 times/ day, and I EP. I do mix in a few days of pumping every three hours, that seems to boost my supply. oatmeal has helped as well.
When I pump, I make sure that I am hooked up for at least 15 mins and feel empty. I think that this also matters in addition to the number of sessions.
Are you using the right size flange for your pump? Have you tried replacing the membranes?
If you decide to continue breastfeeding, these suggestions may help you increase your output.
Ditto to what all the PP's said. Check the size of your shields and replace the membranes. If there is a hole in them, it won't work as well. Also, if you're not EP, try nursing exclusively on the weekends to boost supply.
At the end of the day, 8 oz is not horrible. It's still 8 oz of breastmilk and you can supplement.