I pump 3 times while at work- every 3 hours. I am only able to get 4oz the first go round, 3 1/2 the second time, and about 3 the third time. How can i get myself to produce more milk? I drink tons of water and I am eating like I should, is there anything else I can do???
2006-10-13 02:45:50 · 18 answers · asked by Hannah M 1 in Pregnancy & Parenting ➔ Newborn & Baby
No you can't do anything about it. How much milk is produced depends on the body.
2006-10-13 02:47:36 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 3⤋
Well, for starters, you're still above average on pumping production. Congratulations! :)The average is between 1/2 an ounce and 2 ounces, for both breasts. Also, just keep in mind, that pumping is NEVER a good indicator of milk supply, in case you were worried about that. You can have plenty and the pump just isn't getting it.
That said, if you need to produce more milk for the pump, you should:
-Think about what pump you're using. Not all pumps are equally good, and it could well be a pump issue and nothing to do with your supply. Check the links for more info.
-Nurse more often when you're with your baby- this is always the best way to increase supply.
-Make sure you're pumping long enough, ideally, until there's nothing more coming out (you've probably got this one covered, but it's worth mentioning)
-You can also try breast compression (more info in links)
Good luck! I've been pumping for my daughter for about 10 months now.
2006-10-13 03:45:59 · answer #2 · answered by kalirush 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Pumps just arent as efficient at emptying the breast as the infant is. Especially more so in some women compared to others.
Try pumping more often, and for a little longer each time. If you continue to pump when you're not getting anything it stimulates your body to produce more. As though the baby were suckling and not done feeding. Since your body only produces what is used or needed, it has to be signaled to make more.
2006-10-13 03:04:16 · answer #3 · answered by amosunknown 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I had the same schedule and eventually the same problem. The biggest problem is that the pump just isn't as efficient as the baby. So, the longer you pump the more your supply will drop. :-( Eventually I tried using a prescription medicine called Reglan (generic metoclopramide) that is typically used for stomach problems (even in newborns) but has the side effect of increasing the milk supply in nursing mothers. If I remember correctly I took it for 10 days, and it did greatly increase my supply. I used it 2 different times while I was still pumping. Hope this helps...kudos to you for being diligent and pumping at work.
2006-10-13 02:56:04 · answer #4 · answered by JordanB 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I believe your milk production is based on the amount you pump or the baby nurses the more you will produce. Try to also hand express milk in the evenings while at home. Milk can be stored in the freezer. I always had more luck with hand expressing my milk. A little messy however, it worked better than a breast pump. Good luck to you. God bless
2006-10-13 02:55:07 · answer #5 · answered by ? 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
This is frustrating....first the more you pump, the more you produce...so for a while, I'd pump more frequently which will be hard at work.
Also, you'll hate this RELAX...tension makes you produce less milk...if your uptight or afraid someone will come in you won't produce as much.
Good luck and good for you for keeping this important thing up!
Call the Le Leche League for advice! Be warned...they can be a bit intense.
2006-10-13 03:09:34 · answer #6 · answered by jm1970 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
To get the milk to flow better before you pump, put a heating pad or hot water bottle, or a moist hot rag on the breast and let it sit and then pump. While pumping that one heat the other breast and then pump it. It seems to create a better flow, and you tend to get a little more out.
That is what I had to do.
Also all the above is correct the more you pump the more you produce, and a better increase of milk
Good luck
2006-10-13 02:55:18 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 1⤋
You may want to try the natural foods section at your grocery store for some tea that helps with lactation. Also pumping more often will help increase your supply. Try LaLecheLeauge.com. They'll have a ton of tips and other things to try to increase your production. Good luck!
2006-10-13 03:03:16 · answer #8 · answered by Melissa, That's me! 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Pump more often, and make sure that you're pumping or feeding at night. Your body stays intune to the schedule, and if you've stopped feeding at night, your body automatically thinks it's time to stop producing as much. Try pumping every 2 hours and for ATLEAST 15 minutes per side. I know it's going to be tough, but you have to think of what you want.
2006-10-13 02:52:31 · answer #9 · answered by Imani 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Pump or nurse more if possible that is the only way to increase your supply.Also, if you aren't relaxed with pumping you won't get as much. I know this might sound crazy but look at a picture of your child while you pump. Believe me it has worked.
2006-10-13 02:58:19 · answer #10 · answered by misty g 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Just continue to pump and nurse. Your milk produces at its demand rate. If you are a new mom, then you have to give it time.
2006-10-13 05:39:22 · answer #11 · answered by â¤??? ?å???? 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋