Pumping Problems

[Mom2amiracle2012]

I know there is a breastfeeding forum, but I am going to try here first.

I had a csection on Memorial Day. I was 31 weeks and my baby is now in NICU. I am not able to breastfeed, obviously, because of his size. I have to pump and am getting an average of .75 oz per session. I have already pumped 7 times today and got less than 6 oz. I know thats not enough.

For being 7 days in, I am not sure where most women should be or how far behind I am. Does anyone have any advice or suggestions?

[NicoleCherie]

Have faith, it will get better. It could just be the stress of early delivery. Maybe take a cute picture of your baby to look at while pumping. It may help you relax and let down. :) good luck!

[Mom2amiracle2012]

Thanks for the support, girls. I am up and at it again this morning. Hopeffuully it will get better soon!

[FreshLove]

I remember at 2 weeks my LC said my son only needed 2oz at each feeding. And I remember when I pumped I never got that much until he was quite a few weeks older, but pumping just is not as efficient as direct breastfeeding. Keep up the good work though! Your boobies will get used to the pump soon and you should get more.

[NicoleW09]

I successfully relactated after having my dd. I got sick postpartum and my milk dried up because I was dehydrated.

You need to make sure that you're pumping every two to three hours, just as you would nurse your baby. I'm sure you're probably doing this already. Also remember that nighttime pumping is crucial because it's when the prolactin levels are highest and it helps boost your milk supply.

I would talk to the LC about starting fenugreek and blessed thistle. These are herbs that I took to increase my milk supply. Also, you could try Mother's Milk Tea, it's an herbal tea that increases supply and is sold at herbal/vitamin stores.

I did end up keeping my dd on formula as I was still unable to produce enough to satisfy her, but every little bit helps! And I agree that you're doing great!

[Ashelen]

You're doing great! keep at it! babies born prematurely benefit more than most by colostrum and breastmilk and you're an awesome mama to work so hard, because pumping stinks! definitely do the above and consult with the lactation consultant...keep at it mama, you're a star! 6oz seems like a small amount but every drop counts, and it'll get better - many women have trouble "letting down" into a pump. My son is exclusively breastfed and is now almost 10 weeks and gained a whole pound in two weeks after a slow weight gain start and even so I can only get a few oz of pumping, but the more I do it, the more I let down into the pump, so stick with it!

[Mom2amiracle2012]

The consultant is worried but just tells me to pump more often. I have been on the pump machine more today than off it. I was just wondering what others thought. But thank you!

[NicoleCherie]

My sister took awhile before her milk came in well. She had hers at 34/35 weeks. She's now a healthy kid and talks back with an attitude. Took her a few months to get going. (8 weeks?) Don't give up! She ended up being able to breast feed her even though she was bottle fed in the beginning. Just keep trying. :) it will increase in time.

[brit0585]

Talk to the lactation consultant at the hospital or your drs office if they have one. They will be able to help you the most.  Goid luck to you