Pumping advice

[flymo79]

Hi all, am confused by pumping! Midwife suggested to boost my supply, so have been expressing using elec pump after morning and evening feeds. I only get about 1oz a time so in 48 hrs have just enough to give dd a top up feed if she has a fussy evening and the boob doesn't seem enough. So the thing is, my pumping sessions don't seem to be improving on output, and I am stuck because I pump after she feeds. But I can't bear for her to miss a feed for me to pump, so I'm confused about how this is supposed to work!!!
TIA

Thanks! Have been trying the flipple though often she won't gape wide enough. Does anyone have any advice for what to do when she gets frustrated at the end of a feed? I feel like she might not be getting the fatty stuff, perhaps a reason she's not gaining much weigh?? She tends to fuss, bobbing on and off, crying and I can only switch boobs a few times before she gets really worked up

To be honest I had to top up after each feed for that reason, but it is soul destroying and meant it took me ages to build up supply. if you do have to do this remember they tell you on the box quite a large quantity of formula per feed. Since she has had bm 20 or 30mls may be enough and will ensure she doesn't need to go too long between feeds. I used a bottle that came with the pump - a calma I think- and she never had any nipple confusion.

Someone else may have better advice, but ime building your supply is a gradual process and the formula helps keep her gaining weight while this happens.

The flipple did not work instantly for me, but I persevered and after a few days correcting at each feed it seemed to fall into place. I know it seems silly but try saying "open wide" and open your mouth to show her. There were a couple of other videos I found. I am on my phone so cant link but I think I searched correcting a shallow latch.

I know it is frustrating and I felt like such a failure, but you are not alone. Many women have similar problems, but no one warns you in advance. You will get there. My dd will be one in a few days and is lying in my lap feeding as I type. Keep posting here for moral support!

Also whilst generally the baby gets calories even if you dont eat well, if you are having supply issues I think remebering to eat well is important. Eat lots of protein and foods like oats are meant to help. Treat yourself to some cake or biscuits and have a snack during the night. Drink lots of water. If nothing else eating and drinking enough will make you feel strong and well during this energy draining time.

Thanks cookie, you are a real help xxxx