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Infant feeding

sudden drop in supply, is it 'six-month slump' or breast pump wearing out?

9 replies

Gemmitygem · 13/03/2007 14:41

Has anyone had this? DS is 5 months and a bit, my supply has dropped in the last week by about 10-20% (I express at work for his daytime feeds and I can't get the 8 oz per bottle I was getting before). I'm expressing extra after he's gone to bed, but now getting little then and expressing at 8 am instead, after his morning feed, but then not getting enough when I express mid morning.

He just started on a bit of veg and fruit during this time, could this be why? like psychologically maybe my body thinks he doesn't need me as much, even though I know he does?

any tips much appreciated

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tiktok · 13/03/2007 18:30

Don't think it is psychology, gemmity....this experience (producing less milk when some of the supply relies on pumping) is very common, but it can be turned round, simply by expressing more often. The volume of milk you produce in total will be what you want but you may need to have two or even three extra sessions with the pump.

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tinkerbellhadpiles · 13/03/2007 19:41

Hi Gemmitygem

The important question really is: has your DS noticed or complained? If not, things are probably balancing out and you don't have to worry. If it's a 'empty boobs' situation though I'd go with a few extra pumping session if you can bear it.

My milk supply seemed to plummet at four and a half months but I think things were just settling down a bit (before I had constant leaks, now they only leak if she wails and I can't get to her instantly!)

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NormaStanleyFletcher · 13/03/2007 23:29

Sorrryy - but tiktok - please could you come here

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Jenkeywoo · 13/03/2007 23:42

sorry to state the obvious but have you checked all parts of the pump? I pumped full time for DD as she wasn't able to breastfeed and once went a few days with producing less milk before I noticed a minuscule tear in one of the pump 'flanges' that was making all the difference. Good luck with it all and well done for pumping at work - not always easy to do.

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traceyn · 13/03/2007 23:48

should work allow time to express ?, i am am going back to work in three weeks and would love to know if i should be allowed time to express.

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shonaspurtle · 13/03/2007 23:54

Traceyn - I think you do have rights that mean your work has to accommodate you if you are expressing.

You'd be better off starting a new thread though as I'm sure there are lots of people on here who could advise you. Just click on the link that says add new thread on this topic .

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NormaStanleyFletcher · 13/03/2007 23:55

Ohhh yes they should allow time - will try to find the info for you

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traceyn · 14/03/2007 00:03

started new tread thank you x

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Gemmitygem · 14/03/2007 13:13

thanks all, seems better today.. managed to get 8 oz plus 6 oz..

I have the nanny breathing down my neck if there's even a tiny bit less in the bottle! makes me more nervous, specially since we've just started weaning and I don't want her trying to fill him up with baby rice or whatever...

will try to keep flowing!