Update: pumping and working problems...

[Raven67]

Hi all, in reference to my sad post below....(I can't seem to pump very much on my two work days for baby, constantly wondering if my supply is too low). I decided to have a session with a lactation consultant. I got lots of good support and a couple of new ideas. First, my baby is in the 93% for weight at four months. The LC said, "please, please stop worrying about your supply, she is doing great!" We weighed the baby, then did a "typical" feeding, then weighed again. She only consumed 3.4 ounces, which the LC said was low for her size (17 pounds). BUT, she looked at my expressed milk and remarked that it is unusually creamy. I usually make thick, yellowish milk with a lot of cream on top. My milk is never the pale, blueish color in the bottle. Anyway, the LC theorized that I must be making a relatively low volume of high quality breastmilk, and it is sustaining the baby fine. Based on that feeding, she says leaving 9-10 ounces for the work day should be fine, assuming I am feeding right before and after work, too. So, I feel much relieved, as I am pumping an average of 8-9 ounces a day. I should be able to meet the goal of leaving three 3.5 ounces bottles each day. No need to supplement with formula after next week (hopefully). She encouraged me to try to pump a little bit each morning, even if I am only getting an ounce (which is what usually happens). And, if I can pump 9 ounces in a workday, don't stress about trying to get more. She also recommended stopping and starting the pump after the milk stops flowing, instead of just pumping for 15-20 minutes. Anyway, I feel very much relieved, and hope to be rid of any formula by next week, once I build up a little more stash. Thanks for all the concerned responses below.

[michaelsmama]

hi-
i didn't see your ealier post, but just wanted to say that I'm happy you got such good feedback from the LC - what a relief! My supply fluctuates a bit, too...I didn't see, but how old is your baby? My Michael is 14 months, 20 lbs and only drinks 6-8 oz/day, max, and isn't the greatest eater, either. He makes up for it when I'm home, though - esp overnight! Keep up the good work - mama's milk is the best!!!

[Raven67]

Thanks Michaelsmamma!

She is four months old, and 17 pounds (only 7lb4ozat birth). A big, big girl who got that way on 99.9% momma's milk!