Can't Pump

Steflb · January 2015

Long story short, I can't seem to produce milk when I pump. Even when full, I get next to nothing. My LO is gaining and produces W/D diapers like he should, so I know I'm making adequate milk for him. (Which was a battle in itself!!!) Does anyone else have this problem, or has anyone experienced this and overcame it? If so, please enlighten me!! The LC I've been working with told me I need 27mm flanges, which is what I am using. She also told me I need to work on pumping, but I get discouraged when I sit for 20min and basically get less than 1/10 of an ounce, combined, to show for it! I've tried relaxing, not looking while pumping, etc. Hasn't worked. What gives? I know some women can't let down for a pump, but I'm going back to work eventually, so this will be a huge issue in the future!

If it makes a difference, I am using a brand new Medela PISA. All parts are in working order.

lmlee15 · January 2015

Are you pumping before/after nursing? Is baby near by? I was told immediately after nursing i shouldnt get much bc she should be doing all the work and that if i looked at a picture of her or at her while pumping that it would help my milk come down. Just some thoughts. Gl!

Steflb · January 2015

I'm trying to pump in lieu of nurse when pumping and giving a bottle would be more convenient, time wise, and also in the AM when LO nurses on one side; therefore, I'm pumping when full and should be getting a couple ounces vice next to nothing. I usually get milk right when I start pumping for a few seconds and that's about it. I've tried 24mm flanges and pumpin' pal flanges. My LC fit me last Friday for 27mm. I've also tried to pump after nursing to try and increase supply; this is when I don't expect anything because I know I likely won't get much after LO nurses. However, and this may seem like a stupid question, is the pumping even effective for me to increase supply if I don't react and let down for a pump? I meant to ask my LC about this and forgot.

Steflb · January 2015

I pumped in front of her last week. She said I had to work on it by relaxing, etc. I'm trying.to no avail and getting frustrated! My pump is brand new and suction is good. I've tried different speeds and it's all the same. If I set it on the highest setting it hurts.

AmCheri · January 2015

I always did much better when I massaged at the same time. In fact, for me, it made a dramatic difference in the amount I pumped. Have you tried that?

RayRay007 · January 2015

I agree with PP's, sounds like you need to relax. I take a few deep breaths and turn on Netflix and take my mind off of it and it seems to work.

Steflb · January 2015

@AmCheri‌ - yes, I massage while pumping. I also have Lansinoh warm compresses I can use while pumping.

@casey78‌ - I've tried to simultaneously pump and nurse and i don't get any more or less than pumping alone. Most times I've pumped LO is in the same room as me.

I've worked so hard to get to a point where I don't have to supplement LO with formula! I wish pumping would have proven to come easy so I'd have one less battle to fight.

Redwingchica · January 2015

Have you tried pumping after taking a hot shower? My LC said that was a great time to pump. So sorry you're going through this. I know it must be frustrating.

ejb23 · January 2015

I would certainly try to reconnect with your LC. Sounds like something isn't working properly and I'm sure there is a solution. Can you try hand expression- while not easy it could get you to let down then start the pump?

Steflb · January 2015

@casey78‌ - I've not tried a manual pump, but I do have one. I'll have to try it out. I figured an automatic, hands free one would be better!

@Redwingchica‌ - I haven't tried pumping after a shower. I usually nurse after. This would only be a situational fix, no? I wish I could take a bath 3x while at work!

@ejb23‌ - I'm meeting with her again next week. I hope she has good insight so I can provide ample milk once back at work! Also, I'm not the best at hand expressing, but if it helps, I'll give it a go!

Thank you ladies for all your responses!!

bkramer08 · January 2015

Possibly look into trying a hospital grade pump.

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