Problems pumping

[ToniaR]

Hello to all! I'm a brand new member hoping for some advice. My son is 7 months old and we've been nursing since day one! The last few days he's not been eating well at all so I've tried pumping to relieve discomfort and keep my milk up but I've not been able to pump much.

This has never been a problem for me before so I'm wondering if there's anything I can do or if my breasts just aren't responding to the pump?

Thanks

[Stephanie]

Congratulations on making it 7 months! That is wonderful.

It may be that previously you had an oversupply while you were pumping and now your supply has stabilized.

Do you pump daily, or occassionally?

[Switch]

Pumping is an art of sorts. The pump, while it tries, cannot stimulate your breasts like the babe can.

Stress can really affect your ability to let down for the pump, as well.

What kind of pump are you using?

When you say you baby isn't nursing well, what do you mean? Is it because he's sick or some other temporary issue? It is entirely possible that he is taking in what he needs and your supply will adjust accordingly and in that can you could relieve the pressure through hand expression.

Tell us more.

[ToniaR]

When Cameron was born we had alot of nursing issues. Because of that, I was pumping daily in addition to nursing and I know that I did have a huge milk supply. Several weeks, and many visits to the lc later, we found our rhythm and have been doing great ever since!

For the last two days he has just not been nursing well during the day. Mornings, bedtime and any night feedings are fine. But during the day he just seems to be sipping here and there. I think the problem stems from distraction (he's nosy) and I think he's starting to cut teeth.

I have a Pump In Style and have only been using it occasionally for the last several months. Mostly if I was going to be gone for the day and needed a supply. But with his feeding off, I've been very uncomfortable. While pumping, it feels as if I'm not getting a good let down. I've tried listening to my ipod, having a glass of wine but I'm just not pumping much out even after 3 hours since he's eaten.

I'm almost wondering if my breasts are just no longer used to the pump?

[KaraJ]

I'd keep pumping, but don't stress to much, even if it doesn't seem like much milk. If you feel like you are losing milk, you might try eating oatmeal. Yuck, I know, but it seems to work, even at one bowlful a day. Oh, and it has to be real oats, or quick oats, not instant. I think I read that on the Kellys Mom site.

[Tufftitty]

You can try breast compressions while pumping. It really helps me increase my output. I basically just use the C hold applying pressure in different areas around my breast when the flow slows down. When I find a spot that increases the flow I stay there for awhile. You could also try different flanges. I found the XL for the PIS work best for me. They also have the soft shield that some women like. You can also try breast compressions (http://www.kellymom.com/newman/15breast_compression.html)while feeding the baby. If it is distraction, you can try nursing in a dimly lit quiet room. DS is easily distracted too, so I know how you feel.

[ChestyLaRoo]

Drink lots of water, that always seems to help me produce more milk.

Sometimes I get a second let-down if I keep pumping.

You can try changing the "flappers" in the pump parts. I guess they get old and can work less well.

Try different pump settings. Sometimes the highest is not always the best at getting more milk.

[momoffaith]

You are getting good advice on the pumping ...

I just want to point out 2 things I read from the PP.

You say Cameron is distracted, have you considered a nursing necklace? You can bring it out (only) when Cameron starts to wander and it is designed to bring him back to the breast. You only bring it out when necessary so that it is a new toy - something special.

Oats ... you can use instant oats, oatmeal cookies, I can tell a huge difference if I have oatmeal creme pies by little debbie. I pump daily during the work week so I know exactly how much I'm outputting from the pump and with the oatmeal creme pies it can vary up to 4 oz a day (increase).

I believe from what you've written that the pump just isn't as efficient as your little one.

[ToniaR]

Thanks to all for the great advice! Pumping seems to be getting better but the best news is Cameron is eating much better! He cut his first tooth on Saturday, so that was possibly the problem.

[RENE31]

Maybe you should try pumping as often as possible to increase your supply. I've nursed since day one also, but right after my c-section I had to have my gallbladder removed. I couldn't nurse due to the pain pills I was on. I continued to pump ( and had to discard of course) but it seemed to slow down until I was able to nurse again. Now my supply has increased again. I don't know what it is about our bodies! Good luck to you!