Worth it to add a pump back?

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mapleleaf_momma
iVillage Member
Registered: 01-26-2011
Worth it to add a pump back?
3
 Thu, 05-26-2011 - 2:00pm

Hi Ladies

Four weeks ago I decided to drop to 3 pumps a day (I'm 6 1/2 months pp) or else lose my mind. Unfortunately, 3 was the unlucky number because I finally started to lose supply. At 4 pumps (40 min each) I was getting 37 - 40 oz. Now that I have dropped down to 3 pumps my supply has dropped to 32 - 36 oz and I suspect it may drop more (keeps dropping every week). My DD drinks 27-32 oz per day and I am really nervous that I may not be able to keep up. I have a good freezer supply but I am a worrier (have some ppd anxiety issues I'm trying to work through...and you all know what worry does to supply ;) ). So my question is do you think it's worth it to try and bring back the 4th pump but maybe just do 40 min, 20min, 20 min & 40 min instead? It is really stressful to try and pump for 40 min when dd is awake but 20 min is more reasonable. I may not empty completely but at least I would be getting an extra pump. Any thoughts or advise?

Thanks!

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sidneyem
iVillage Member
Registered: 02-09-2011
In reply to: mapleleaf_momma
Re: Worth it to add a pump back?
 Fri, 05-27-2011 - 6:30am
Well I am also at 3 pumps and my dd is 7 months. I never got near 40 oz! I would guess I pump about 30-32 oz now. I decided when I dropped to 3 pumps that I would be ok to use a little formula if needed. I haven't had to - but I just had that in my head. My dd is actually starting to decrease her milk intake so that helps. (she did drink 30+, now closer to 25, solids are helping). 3x per day has helped me keep it up longer. So I figure it is good for me. I'm sure going back to 4 pumps would help with your supply. I guess it is a matter of sanity. Maybe you could add a 4th pump on days that it works better for you - and know you could do just 3 if needed for a break? It does sounds like your supply is pretty good at 3x. How long has it held at 32-36? Several weeks?
mapleleaf_momma
iVillage Member
Registered: 01-26-2011
In reply to: mapleleaf_momma
Re: Worth it to add a pump back?
 Sat, 05-28-2011 - 7:17pm

Thanks sidneyem for your response. Was hoping you would comment since I know your LO is close in age to mine and we seem to be on a fairly similar pumping schedule. You always seem to have really helpful comments when you post and I can use advise from someone with a clearer head than mine these days :)

So I decided to try adding back a fourth pump for a little while to see if it makes a difference (6am, am nap, pm nap, and 9:30pm). I don't pump as long during the middle of the day sessions (20 - 30 min). Seems to be going ok for now. DD's napping has really settled into a pretty consistent routine lately so that helps. You asked about how consistent my supply is...I dropped to 3 pumps just after Easter

sidneyem
iVillage Member
Registered: 02-09-2011
In reply to: mapleleaf_momma
Re: Worth it to add a pump back?
 Sun, 05-29-2011 - 1:59pm
Well it sounds like 4 pumps may be the answer for you. HANG in there! You are doing a wonderful job and it is helpful if you can pump during naps. So much easier that way. I know it sounds silly - but look at all you have done so far!! You are an amazing mom! Whenever I start stressing about my supply (like everyday) I have to ask myself - and is this helping anything? nope;) So do what you feel is best for you now and TRY to not stress. I know it is hard. Your posts are always helpful:) THANKS!!
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