Working Mom Still Having Breastfeeding Issues with 5 Month Old

I think the only answer is to pump more frequently. I know it's hard to find those 15 minutes, but I just don't think your milk will keep up otherwise. Also, around 5 months is the time when some moms begin to see a slight decrease when they pump anyways! If your daughter is 20 weeks, she's received all the immunities she can get. At this point, it's about bonding and connection. So it's ok to supplement with formula. (I will probably get in trouble for saying that...but it's medically true...)

But definitely keep breastfeeding when you're home! That time together is so special! And you will probably keep up enough supply to do morning and night, at least for a partial feeding.

In terms of supplementation- my midwife said oatmeal, alfalfa sprouts, and cornmeal (muffins, tortilla chips, etc). But I think frequent pumping is the key!

Hi E.,

Just wanted to say welcome aboard!!!! You'll love this site. Give Ava a big kiss for me.

B.

Hi E.,
Just wanted to let you know I'm right there with you... I get even less milk per session though (only 1-1.5 total now).. and since my daughter has been on solids, its been worse.... I think some of us just don't make as much milk.. However, not pumping much does get very frustrating. I work three days a week and manage to get 3 short sessions in. We have just been supplimenting at day care with formula, and on the days I'm not working I still try to breastfeed her every three hours.
Sorry I don't have much advice.. just hang in there and congrats for breastfeeding! Good luck!

Hi E.,

Ideally you should pump more, but since it is only 2 days a week, you should be able to get around this. I suggest, if possible, try to pump earlier in the day since mom's make more milk in the AM. If you could squeeze in a couple of pumps in the morning, maybe you could still keep up your supply going longer stretches in the PM. That way the breast will not get too full, which decreases supply.

Also, when you are not at work, you could do some pumping between nusrsings, especially in the AM. I don't think you need to worry about baby being hungry, you may just need to give her the breast more often since she may get less at a time. This too will drive up supply. With experience you'll find a rhythm that works for both of you.

I nursed for 15 months, and worked full time. Like you, I had a lot of early hurdles. I stuck it out and I was so glad I did. It was very rewarding for my son and I.

I wish you the best!

C.

Definitely change your pump. Try the hospital grade Medela Symphony. Babies R Us rents it for $80/mo or $200 for 3-mos. I've used both the pump you're using and this one, and gotten much more milk from the latter.

The other thing to do is try pumping every 2 hrs for a weekend to make your body believe your baby is on a growth spurt. This might encourage the production of more milk.