I had the same thing happen when I was pumping at work, but it didn't seem to have an effect when I was feeding him directly. what kind of pump are you using? If you are using a hand pump or battery, you may want to try a hospital grade electric pump. You can rent them from most large hospitals for a small amt every month. Also try drinking more fluids and pumping more often if you can. Hope this helps! ↑ |
When I changed pumps it made a world of a difference. At first it worked great but after a while the motor got worn and slowed down. I didn't even notice until I got a new pump. I guess it also helps to pump more frequently but I know that isn't always possible. I've read the best time to pump is around 3AM but I'm not sure why. ↑ |
Lee,
I had the same experience as Tia with my first pump not working too well. But then I bought a used Medela pump and that worked fantastic!
I would recommend you increase your pumping if at all possible. This will increase your milk production. If you cannot increase your time at work, try pumping shortly after a feeding. This will aid in increasing your supply. Make sure that you do it after a feeding though, so that you will have enough time to provide your baby with a good supply at his/her next feeding.
Remember your breasts work on a supply and demand type of cycle. Never skip a feeding or pumping, for that sends your breast a signal to slow down on production.
You can always supplement with formula when necessary, I had found myself doing that occasionally. Just make sure that you always pump when you supplement, to increase your own milk supply.
And relax. Remember to relax. Being tense can limit our supply also. Maybe that's why the 3 am time Tia mentioned. We usually are very relaxed at that time, lol.
Good luck! ↑ |
My daughter had that problem. She tried a different approach that might be of interest to you. We went to the health food store and looked in a big book to find an herb which would help. She started taking Blessed Thistle and the next day she noticed more milk. Now it's been several months and she has plenty of milk, no more problems. She got the herb in capsule form and takes 2 after breakfast, lunch & dinner. She hasn't noticed any unpleasant side effects. Hope this helps. ↑ |
Hello. I just had twins January 31st. I am nursing, but all of a sudden I went from pumping 8 ounces to barely 2 ounces. I am now having to supplement to keep my twins eating healthy and on schedule and supplementing is something that I did not want to do. Does anyone have any tips on how to get my milk supply up and enough for two??? Please HELP!!!! ↑ |
Jenni,
Congrats on your twins!
In your situation, I would strongly recommend you get in touch with a Lactation Consultant. Your doctor should be able to refer you to one or the hospital where your babies were born should have one on staff. I have always found them to be free of charge.
If by some odd chance you are unable to locate a Lactation Consultant, get in touch with the La Leche League (their website has a listing of leaders. Call which ever one is closest to you. No need to be a member, the leaders are more then happy to help you. Leave a message if they are do not pick up, they will return your call.)
www.lalecheleague.org
I wish you all the best! Don't give up. ↑ |