How much is normal??

[raelooney]

I'm preparing to go back to work next week. I've been pumping on top of feeding regularly and also taking fenugreek to help build a little bit of a supply. I can usually pump on average about 8oz a day right now. Is this pretty normal with doing regular feedings? If so, how often should I pump at work and how much should I expect to get during that time frame that she isn't able to nurse? I want to be realistic in my expectations, at the same time really want to be able to keep her on just bm and not formula if I can avoid it.

[camille97]

Sounds like you're doing quite well if your LO is nursing full time and you're pumping 8oz a day! If you can pump as often as every 2.5 hours, that would be great. Not everyone can pump that often, though. I pumped every 3-4 hours and got 8 or 9 oz each time between the two sides. Sometimes I would get 11 oz if went too long and started leaking before pumping. HTH.

[Amy_G_]

A LOT of women don't quite get the amount that camille got when pumping, so don't get all worried if you can only get a couple ounces when you first start pumping at work. sometimes it's really hard to let down for a pump--they aren't all cute and squishy like babies. ;)

try to pump mid-morning, noon and afternoon if they'll let you at work. every few hours like baby likes to nurse. If you can get your pumpings on approx the time baby usually nurses, you'll get better output and avoid engorgement. I'd recommend taking a change of shirt for your first day, just in case you get leakage or unexpected let down at the wrong time of day.

there is a link at kellymom.com for bottle feeding a breastfed baby and you should check that out to get an idea of how to feed and how much.