Low milk supply

[hbradley2582]

I had my son on 6/2/08 and am trying to breastfeed but my milk supply has not increased since it came in 4 days ago. I have an electric double pump which I use every 2-3 hours plus I nurse my son when he is awake. I am getting very concerned because I am only getting a half ounce to an ounce of breastmilk at each sitting out of both breasts combined.

[caryn]

Does your child have 8-12 wet diapers and at least one bm per day? Is he frustrated at the breast?
if the answer is yes, I would suggest pumping at the same time every day, in the morning and at night. If the baby is satisfied, there is no need to pump every 3 hours.

[hbradley2582]

I am supplementing him with formula because he has lost so much weight. He lost almost a pound in the first week. I think this is my problem but now that I have been giving him a bottle I am not sure how to cut back on his feedings with the bottle and I am also wondering how long it is going to take before my milk supply increases. He gets frustrated at the breast alot because he is not getting enough to eat and I am getting very frustrated with breastfeeding but I don't want to give up.

[caryn]

I would see a board certified lactation consultant asap. Do you have any thyroid, pituitary, PCOS or hormonal fluctuations (PMS, irregular menses)?

[hbradley2582]

yes i was put on thyroid medication when I was 8 months pregnant because my levels were low. Could that be the problem?

[caryn]

Yes, have your levels checked. ;)