pumping

[rydersmommy]

I am using a medela lactina select.. do pumps become less effective after a while? I've been back to work since DS was 6 weeks. He'll be 5 months on the 18th. And I pump twice a day 5 days a week.
I feel like I'm not anywhere close to being empty after I pump. My breasts are softer, but they still feel full, especially the right side.
I have been taking fenugreek, reglan and eating oatmeal a few times a week. Could I just have extra milk? Or is my pump not as effective as it used to be?
I really wish I could get it all out!! I know babies do a better job than pumps, but I used to feel emptier in the begining.
Sorry, I hope that made sense!

[madelsmama]

I think our breasts get accustomed to pumps at some point and don't respond as well. I've noticed pumping after my babies turned one was a bit more difficult (I don't pump as often as you; just on Mondays).

You could just have more milk with all your supplements. I have a different type of pump than you, but can you cycle it back to the rapid phase and go for another let-down or two? You could also try massage and heat after the first round of pumping and then go for a second one immediately following. Sometimes I lean over before I pump and give the girls a little shake, to help get milk down lower; try breast compressions during pumping as well.

[Mamacita]

Have you checked the soft parts on your pump? They need to be replaced periodically.

[rydersmommy]

They all look fine to me. I still get a decent amount of milk, but I just feel full still. Even after I turn the pump off, I can hand express some, not much. I just wish it would all come out! Then DS would NEVE have to have formula!

[Amy_G_]

Mix up your pumping session as much as you can. pump for 5 minutes, take a break and then pump for 5 more minutes. pump on a higher cycle then lower the cycle then back to the higher cycle. change the timing a bit if work will let you, try pumping a half hour earlier than usual. take in baby shampoo/lotion, soft baby booties, video, pictures or voice recording of baby "talking" to help with let down. bend over from the waist with your bra flaps open and let the boobs shake a bit, then massage, warm washcloth and pump. Take your pump apart, clean it, sterilize it again, and consider replacing any tubing or seals that are replaceable. try a handheld pump to see if you let down differently for that pump. watch tv or read a book with the pump covered so you can't judge the ounces and worry about them. add in a pumping session in the evenings, drive home, middle of the night.

mix it up and try to shake some more milk loose. ;)

[klynnw]

I have the same pump you do. I change the little white pieces once a month. They always look ok, but I can tell a difference in the suction after I change them.

[rydersmommy]

I'll give the shaking a try on monday! I'll also replace the valves and tubing see if that helps. Thanks for the tips ladies! :hugegrin: