Breastfeeding Basics

Hi Yarly,
Are you also breastfeeding, or just pumping? If you are also breastfeeding in addition to pumping, you are making a lot of milk!
How often are you breastfeeding? Pumping? Do you need a large supply of stored milk because you will be away from your baby for a long time?
Beth

Yes I’m breastfeeding mainly at night time and early morning. I will be going back to work soon. When I breast feed and I wait 30 minutes to an hour after to pump but don’t get a lot so I pump mainly in the afternoon and bottle feed it to my baby once she hungry.

Hi Yarly, if you can add in some breastfeedings during the day, that could help a lot. Feeding more is the best way to produce more milk. And continue with the vitamins, tea, and water.
Beth

Hi Julia,
Yes, keep breastfeeding your baby! It's almost certain that your baby has already been exposed to whatever you have, and your breastmilk has targeted protection to specifically fight what you have! It is the best way to protect her.
I hope you feel better soon! Keep up the good work, and nurse on!
Beth

Hi Kayli, it's definitely not too late to start pumping! You have plenty of time!
You definitely don't need huge amounts of milk stored up, just enough for a day or two! So you can start now, pumping a couple times a day about an hour after feeding. Hope this helps!
Beth

Hi Hannah,
Is it possible to feed him directly again? Adding in some feedings can help a lot with supply. Also, how often are you pumping? If you can add in a pump or 2, or get at least 8 to 10 pumps per 24 hours (one of those in the middle of the night), that could make a difference.
While you're pumping, be sure to use gentle massage, and hand express for a few minutes after pumping - this produces quite a bit more milk.
Power pumping once a day can help too - pump for 10 minutes, rest for 10, repeat for one hour, once a day.
Continue eating lots of high quality calories and get plenty of fluids to drink.
Hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions!
Beth

Hi Courtney, it sounds like she is exploring and enjoying her world. Try to feed her when she's drowsy, and in a quiet, boring room. Sing or talk quietly to her so that she will focus on your face while nursing. Try to keep her hand occupied with your own fingers. This is very likely to be a short term, temporary phase and she'll get right back to business. Keep up the good work!
Beth