Sunday, September 18, 2011

Pumping pumping pumping...

is what my life consists of now!  Of course that includes breastfeeding, diaper changes, and naps in between!  I'm currently pumping as I type this!  I was given this amazing hands free pump, the Medela Freestyle, and it has given me the motivation to pump again! 

Once I decided to strictly breastfeed both babies, I stopped pumping at that time, mostly because I was burned out!  I originally breastfed Rocco and then pumped for Maximus so I could add the extra calories to it.  Once Maximus was up to a good weight I stopped adding the extra and was just so exhausted from it all I needed a break.  The problem... I'm not producing enough milk for two babies!!!  I am desperately trying EVERYTHING to increase my milk supply!

I had an appointment with a Lactation Consultant on Wednesday.  I breastfed both babies while I was there.  They weighed them before and after to see how much they ate.  Maximus ate 2.4oz on the right side and Rocco ate only 1 oz on the left!  I have a retarded left breast!

On top of that, they think I have thrush on my nipples, which is why I'm still in pain when I breastfeed after 6 weeks (yes my babies are 6 weeks old now!).  Its very common with breastfeeding.  It can either appear on the mother, the baby, or both!  Luckily I just have it now.  So I am putting a cream on after each feeding/pumping.

My job now to increase my supply is to breastfeed, then pump after each feeding, 10 min on the right and 15 on my retarded left  This SUPPOSEDLY will tell my body to produce more!  I am still waiting for that to kick in!  I have also started taking Fenugreek, an herbal supplement that is supposed to also increase my supply.

To say the least, it is VERY frustrating!  I am very frustrated!  If it is supply and demand and my babies are demanding and my body is not supplying, I disagree with that theory.

If anyone has any other tips for increasing supply, PLEASE SHARE!!!

4 comments:

Ashley said...

fenugreek = amazing! just be careful, my boobs are so full i have to cut back now and then as it feels like my milk is coming in again and again!

Allison said...

Thanks for the tips! I'm pumping for one, and it seems like I'm barely able to keep up with just him! God love ya, woman!

My (In)fertile Confessions said...

Calmly... thanks for leting me know its working for you! What brand are you taking?

Anonymous said...

I know oatmeal is supposed to help increase supply. My left boob is retarded too.... I was only able to pump 30 mls out of it where as on the right side I am able to pump 90mls. I have been really diligent to pump and I have been able to increase the left to produce 45-60mls. So I think pumping works the best- as much I hate pumping- I think it is effective. I plan to start taking Fenugreek and I have been drinking mothers milk tea. Good luck!

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