Breastfeeding

first time pumping--questions

DS is 2 weeks old, and I have a Medela Freestyle. 

The pediatrician suggested pumping for a few minutes prior to feeding DS due to a possible overactive letdown.  I figured I'd give it a shot today and try a full pumping sessions.  However, I was very disappointed.  Almost nothing came out--less than 1/2 ounce.  Is this normal for a first time pumping 2 weeks postpartum?  I'm worried I won't be able to pump enough milk to feed DS when I go back to work in June.
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Re: first time pumping--questions

  • Agree with pp, your body needs to learn how to let down for the pump, try looking at baby or even just thinking about baby while you pump helps some women, you can also apply heat pads to your breasts before and during pumping, but just be careful to not go crazy with pumping in the beginning unless your pumping to replace a feed it can lead to oversupply issues which can be a huge pain ! Literally
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  • You'll get a lot more when pumping to replace a feeding than when pumping in addition to feeding.

    It's also completely normal for it to take your body time to adjust to getting a letdown for the pump. 

    I would try pumping one side while feeding the other to help your body learn how to respond to the pump.
    all of this.

    when you are BFing full time, you will not get a lot when you pump. remember, when you are at work, you will be missing feedings, so you will get a lot more milk. when i pumped when i was at home on maternity leave, i would get an ounce or less.

    don't worry!

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