Breastfeeding

Help with let down...

LO is 17 weeks, and we've EBF since day one. I had been pumping to relieve engorgement for a while there, but since we decided I would be a SAHM, I quit when my milk regulated. I've got a bit in the freezer, but it's going on 2-3 months old. (And probably twice a week since we got home... So there's a little bit of "new" milk in there.) when I started pumping, I didn't need any help. I have a heavy let down and oversupply, so I would pump after feeding and get 2-3 oz per breast no problem. Well. We started a new business, and I have to leave the house for two or so days a week to work. I started trying to pump again, and like,.... Nothing comes out!! I use a manual and an electric. Just hardly an oz between the two! I feel like if I could have a letdown without him, I'd produce more. But I just can't. I've tried watching him sleep, looking at movies of him eating, looking at pictures of him... Nothing. If I'm lucky, I can stick my nipple in his mouth while he's asleep, and get a little sensation... But not enough for a full let down. Getting frustrated. Any ideas? I was even thinking of making lactation cookies.

Re: Help with let down...

  • I had the exact same experience OP. are you pumping both sides or one at a time.
    I started mother's milk tea and started pumping both sides instead of one at a time, that helps me more with let down. For me it took me 2 weeks to get better -now i can have 2-3 let downs per session and 3-4 oz per session.
    Pregnancy Ticker
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  • Ok. My electric pump is a duel, and I'm pretty sure I can't do just one side with it. My manual works fine, but it gets messy trying to pump while he feeds... I usually try this in the morning with his first feed. I think tomorrow morning I will try to feed him then pump right after. Drank a bunch of water today (won't lie... I don't drink enough.) The more I think about it, my supply started dropping during AF. With this happening every two weeks, I can see why my supply is having issues. Will an added pump session jump start a higher supply?
  • How long has it been slow?  I'm wondering if maybe it could be the start of a clogged duct?  Do you have any pain or any other symptoms?  I just bring it up because that's how mine started.  I had very slow output for a few days then pain and a hard spot developed.  Hopefully not, just something else to consider.  That and starting a business I'm sure is very stressful, which can have an impact on supply.  Make sure you're drinking tons of water and getting a moment to relax if possible.  Good luck!     :)
  • schesky said:
    How long has it been slow?  I'm wondering if maybe it could be the start of a clogged duct?  Do you have any pain or any other symptoms?  I just bring it up because that's how mine started.  I had very slow output for a few days then pain and a hard spot developed.  Hopefully not, just something else to consider.  That and starting a business I'm sure is very stressful, which can have an impact on supply.  Make sure you're drinking tons of water and getting a moment to relax if possible.  Good luck!     :)

    Slow really since it regulated, months ago. I just never had to pump out of necessity. It was more for comfort.. So now I feel like because it's necessary, my body won't do it! Lol
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