Slings and increasing breastmilk volume

[NV42]

I have two questions regarding slings & breastmilk volume and how to increase it.

1. Can I use a sling from birth? Is there a required minimum weight/length for the baby before they go on a sling?
2. I am renting the Medela Sympony and I can go up to level 6 of intensity for expressing as 7 hurts. Does the intensity impact how much milk volume one expresses? Currently I am on 450ml per day which is not enough for both twins. 🙁

There are lots of slings suitable from birth, including fabric wraps and more structured carriers. All will say what weight they are suitable from, in the description. Do you have a sling library near you? Brilliant opportunity to try lots of styles out and check the fit.

Re pumping, the amount you pump is not representative of the amount you produce. Baby is much more adept at drawing out milk. Pumping should never ever hurt. Try popping along to a breastfeeding peer support group and getting them to check the fit of the flange - incorrectly fitting flanges can cause pain and restrict the flow of milk. Parts also need replacing, depending on how often they are used.

Are you using the correct size flange? You can buy a box of inserts with multiple sizes to test whether they make a difference for about a tenner. I bought this one, which has a measuring guide inside and i was surprised that i needed a much smaller flange than i expected. https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/aw/d/B0CMPBBHMZ?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title