Help reducing over supply

[mamahen2coop]

I had over supply with DS1 also, but with DS2 (now 15 days) I had to pump for the first 10 days while he was in the NICU. Now my breasts are totally confused and although I theoretically know how to reduce supply, I'm wondering if you mama's can help me know when to pump.
So what I've been doing is feeding off one side for 2-3 feedings and pumping the opposite side only when it gets uncomfortable. But sometimes it'll be extra large, hard, lumpy and slightly tender but not really painful. Do I pump then or wait longer until it gets more painful? I REALLY want to avoid mastitis, which I had at 6 weeks with DS1 and it was not a good few days.
thanks!

[foreverinbluejeans]

One way would be to feed one side and let the other side leak. If you don't leak then hand express to comfort. Next feeding feed the other breast. No pumping a all.

Pumping can cause infections and it will keep your supply up. If you are going to pump you want to do as little as possible. You don't want to go more than a feeding without nursing on a breast. Not nursing will increase the chance of clogged ducts or infections. Rest as much as possible. Usually going to bed for 24-48 hours will take care of a breast infection if done right away.