Need advise for friend-one week postpartum and large milk supply questions

[sdmoose]

Hi--my good friend is 1 week post partum and I'm just looking for advice on what to advise her regarding large milk supply discomfort. Her baby nurses a lot, but because she has a large supply he doesn't nurse very long and she's quite uncomfortable. I told her she could start pumping/saving, but she's worried about pumping a lot because she thinks it will further increase her milk supply. Will things settle out or what should she do? I did NOT have issues with oversupply and my son nursed 45 minutes each time he nursed, so I don't know what to tell her!!!

[alegna]

I would NOT suggest pumping. I would suggest some block feeding. Not feeding both sides at every feeding- staying on one side for several feedings in a row.

-Angela

[double feature]

Originally Posted by alegna

I would NOT suggest pumping. I would suggest some block feeding. Not feeding both sides at every feeding- staying on one side for several feedings in a row.

-Angela

:

I would not suggest pumping in this case. Pumping sends your body signals to keep producing that milk supply and it creates a temporary relief only. She should only pump when she's feeling engorged. Also, if she is pumping, maybe she can look into local milk banks to help other babies who may only take a tiny amount of milk. Think of how much of a help she'd be in this case .

[Carlyle]

I have heard cabbage leaves on the boobs can help decrease oversupply pain (never had to try it myself though...low-ish supply initially here--hooray for lactation tea)