I slacked on breastfeeding and want to do it more will my milk come in more if i start again?

Question

I had a pretty good labor and delivery but I was extremely sore and tired afterwards and wanted to recover, My milk came in pretty good at first and there were times when my nursing pads would be soaked if I didnt feed, but I am bottle feeding more and getting lazy on breast...I want to start pumping and nirsing more but I noticed that my milk has slipped off and not as much, if I start again will it come back in with a lot to be able to feed her on it alone and with no formula? How often would I need to pump and nurse???

Answer 1

It just depends on how often you're slacking. You'll have to pump and feed by breast all the time to get your milk supply back up. Breastfeeding is supply and demand, don't take that stuff for granted or it will go away. My milk supply got low because I would forget to pump at work, but I straightened up and quit skipping feeding times at work and my milk is fine now. Good luck!

Answer 2

I've heard of women resuming breastfeeding, so I know that it is possible although I'm not sure of the details. I'm not sure how often you would need to pump, but definitely nurse on demand any time your baby wants it.

You should get in contact with your local LLL or a lactation consultant (LLL might be better because you can contact them 24 hours a day and they are also FREE) right away. You can find your local LLL online at http://www.lalecheleague.org/ . They are very helpful and supportive, with lots of experience and resources. They should be able to tell you what you need to do. Congratulations on your baby and your decision to resume breastfeeding!

Answer 3

You should talk to a lactation consultant about how to get the baby back to the breast but check out
http://www.kellymom.com/bf/supply/relactation.html

The rule is usually pump ever three hours for 15 minutes and offer the breast to the baby before pumping.