Breastfeeding

Pumping TOO Much?

EBF, on demand, until this Monday when I returned to work (part time afternoons for 2 weeks before returning full time). I've always pumped on the right side in the morning to add to my stash, and get several ounces each time, but haven't pumped throughout the day since he was 2-3 weeks old.
So, when I pump in the afternoon, I'm getting 6+ ounces from Righty (my over achiever) and 1-3 from the left. This is taking me 25 minutes then I still have to redress etc, and work is not happy about my time away, especially when you factor what will be two additional pumps when I'm here all day. I have to make up my pump time on the same day, so it's adding an hour to my day!
I don't really have any slowdowns, and therefore no letdowns to stop inbetween. I do compressions and massage throughout.
I'm happy to build up my freezer stash, (there is no way Noob will use all this the next day, especially since he seems to be reverse cycling, hopefully that is temporary) but really need to cut down my pump time to 10-15 minutes max.

Is there a safe way to pump less time without risking plugged ducts & mastitis? Also, how can I reduce my daytime supply without reducing it overall? Please help, I need to know how to make less of this liquid gold (geeze, it really hurts to say that)
Thank you for your help!

Re: Pumping TOO Much?

  • pumping for 15 minutes should really be enough for most people. can you play with the settings on your pump? maybe turn up the suction or speed a little bit more to express the milk faster (while still remaining comfortable)?

    reduce your pumping time by a couple of minutes each day, until you're down to about 15 minutes-- then you won't be uncomfortably engorged and reduce the risk of clogged ducts. your body will get used to it

    you can reduce your daytime oversupply by reducing your pumping time. :)

    make sure that you nurse your LO on demand when you are at home. this will help to keep your supply strong.
This discussion has been closed.
Choose Another Board
Search Boards
"
"