DS just turned 8 months old. He has been EBF and I pump at work for bottles. My job is very hectic and I haven't been able to pump more than twice during 9 hours there which I know has been my biggest problem. I was pumping two other times a day though, right before bed and first thing in the morning, and was just barely making enough for 12 oz for daycare.
Now though, I am getting less and less and had to start supplementing with formula. It just seems like my body isn't responding as well to the pump. This morning I only got an ounce from the side he didn't nurse from, and had to turn the suction up. My milk seems to be fine when I nurse so I don't think it is a supply issue.
I use the medela freestyle and had 2 sets of parts that I rotate. Should I try replacing parts to see if that helps? I always pump while plugged in to the ac adaptor, I have been focusing on drinking more water, tried power pumping, fenugreek, oatmeal, flaxseed, lactation cookies.
I don't mind supplementing, just worried I will lose my supply completely I am not ready to give up nursing.
Re: body not responding to pump
Breastfeeding Counselor with Breastfeeding USA
Babywearing Guide ** Newborn Carriers
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www.becomingmamas.com
Besides relaxing before you pump, are you massaging your breasts while you pump? I EPed hands free for a year and found massaging after a let down allowed more milk to come out. I equated it to wringing my breasts of the milk.
DS #1 born January 2010. DS #2 due June 2014.