I can bf but can't pump:(

[tintal]

I had this prob with my older daughter too. Both my kids breastfed great. My newborn is 3 weeks and I want to start pumping to build a stash but only get an ounce while using a double pump. I hate pumping I know I have the milk but not enough to pump?
I'm not sure what to do. I really don't want to use formula but I need to be away a couple times a month.

[jildez]

i had a ton of milk at the beginning, but was not a great pumper, now i almost never do it, but when i was in school, i found pumping while he fed, and saving a side at night- doing all the feedings on one side and then pumping on the other in the early morn, helped me get enough for him when i was gone. I hope that helps! Also, being dedicated and pumping regularly at the same time will help your body get ready for it- it took me a maybe 3 to 5 days to reliably get 2 to 3 ozs from each side when he had not eaten in 2 hours.

Oh! and what kind of pump do you have? A good pump will do much more- i use a Medela, but there are others that are good. If you got a Playtex or similar, you probably will not be able to get enough milk reliably with it.

[Bokonon]

An ounce is a very respectable amount to pump! The average woman pumps .5-2oz/session.

I agree that a good pump may make a difference.

[mommajb]

I agree that a good pump and pumping regularly can help. Pumping where you are comfortable mnetally and physically able to relax) can help with let down. Proper fitting flanges can also make a difference. Some women find the ones they start with are too small. Your nipple should not be rubbing, there should be no friction or trauma to the skin from the pumping experience.

[crystal_buffaloe]

Originally Posted by jildez

i found pumping while he fed, and saving a side at night- doing all the feedings on one side and then pumping on the other in the early morn, helped me get enough for him when i was gone.

This has worked really well for me (and I didn't know anyone else did it!). I primarily feed on one side at night (maybe not all feedings, but most) and the I pump from the other when I wake up.

Also, just getting used to the pump helps, I think. I got half an ounce at first and now I get 3-4 ounces in 10-15 minutes using a good single pump. I have an Avent Isis electric and I find that focusing on the one side to get a comfortable position and suction works out better and allows me to read while I'm doing it.