Could one long stretch with no nursing or pumping affect my supply?

[crystal_buffaloe]

So, in a downward spiral of unfortunate events, I went about 7 hours without nursing or pumping last night.

I nursed DD down for a nap at 2:30, got to work at 4:30 and set up the pump, then realized that I forgot to pack the horns.   Then, I guess because I didn't use it, I forgot and left without it. I got part way home, realized I'd left it, and finally returned home at 9:30. (I work in two different towns on M/W and T/Th, so I really couldn't really just leave it.) (I guess the really surprising thing is that DD is nearly 6 months old and I haven't done this before.)

So my question is: Could going this long without nursing have an effect on my supply? I guess I just want some reassurance that if she seems fine, she is fine. Also, if it was going to develop into a plugged duct or an infection, there would be some signs by now, right?

Really, all I experienced was mild uncomfortableness, fullness, and tingling -- and immense relief when I was able to nurse.

DD has slept a 7 hour stretch before (though not recently!) so is my body just somewhat used to it?

[ASusan]

When did this happen? IME, I would have started to have ducts back up/feel plugged after many 9 hours without nursing . At that age, maybe a little earlier.

YOu've nursed by now, right? Did your LO nurse a lot? Did the breasts empty?

Do you have lechithin in the house? That helps the milk release from the ducts. It is an emulsifier.

There are some homeopathic things I would use, too , if I were in your position. I can look them up for you if you want.

[PatioGardener]

It sounds like you have escaped the plugs!    Just keep nursing and your body should realise that it was a one of, and not a change!

[Parker'smommy]

I'm pretty positive that unless you have supply problems, that going 7 hours without nursing will not have a negative effect on your supply. You've been nursing for 6 months. Your supply is pretty established. And heck...my baby, at 8 weeks slept 7 hours and I slept 7 hours and just had really full breasts when we both finally woke up! I nursed her, and she emptied my breasts and all was good...really good, because HEY! we slept 7 hours!!!!!! :)

[crystal_buffaloe]

Ohhh! Thanks for the reminder -- I do have some Soy Lecithin, and I'm going to take it right now.

This happened last night -- I nursed right away when I came home. I have had mastitis before, though (twice in the first 6 weeks), and was paranoid about it the whole time I was at work. Usually I pump twice in that time, so we had to thaw out some of the freezer stash for her bottle today.

Otherwise, though, I'm hoping I squeaked out of this mess free and clear     

Thank you all for your replies!