Another BFing/pumping question

I posted today about my issues and then all of a sudden my dd just nursed like a champ for the first time- both breast more than 25 minutes each side.

Now the LC had told me no pumping until 2 weeks. But since I am having supply issues, should I pump after feedings? For how long?

Also, since she had a weight dip and I had to supplement to get her weight back up, I am nervous to just give her the breast and find out in 2 weeks that she dropped weight again.

I am going to call the ped. in the morning, but any advice would be great!

Re: Another BFing/pumping question

Hi! Congratulations! BF is so hard, so first of all, kudos to you for trying to stick with it!
My ped told me that pumping fora few minutes on each side right after feeding would help increase my supply when I had DS, and he was right. It's worth a shot, and since you are feeding your DC first, you will not be taking anything away from DC.

Good luck!

Re: Another BFing/pumping question

I think pumping after a few feedings for 15min would HELP your supply... I think the LC's say no pumping in REPLACE of nursing...

Also...if you are nervous- there is nothing wrong with offering a little formula AFTER she nurses....if she is still hungry than by all means feed your baby...If she isnt-she will refuse it.

Right now your body is just starting to figure out what it needs to do... but soon you will be able to FEEL whether or not your baby ate enough...


I take 2 fenugreek @ breakfast and 2 @ dinner- eat a bowl of oatmeal every morning- and drink lots of water all day long...I also pump after 3 feedings (at least)/day- to help keep up my supply...I feel it really helps!

Re: Another BFing/pumping question

How do you know you have supply issues? Are you basing it on what you're pumping? Pumping isn't a good indication of your supply. I know your DD dropped weight, but does she have enough wet and dirty diapers now?

If you are having supply issues, the best thing to do is nurse. Supplementing may affect your supply, but if you're really concerned she's not getting enough, you could continue to give formula. You need to do what you feel comfortable with. Perhaps you could try EBFing and see if your pediatrician is willing to do a weight check in a couple of days. This way, you'll have a better idea of how she's doing. Good luck!

Re: Another BFing/pumping question

My pediatrician and I were speaking and since after day 6 I was only producing 1-1.5 ounces of milk combined each time I pumped, she kind of suggested that was a very low supply and to just keep eating right and drinking.

My supply seems to have improved overnight, so I am on my way. I def. see that I am one sided really- right breast produces next to nothing.

I know dd is still hungry after feeding, so I give her formula to fill her up. I am scared to try and just EBF since I do not have another appt. until Aug. 20. The good news is she is taking my breast regardless of the bottle and the formula.

I am going to have to get myself some fenugreek and try that as well.