Low Milk Supply, cont'd

by ValD
(NC)

I have had low supply from the start. Even with pumping and nursing around the clock for 15 weeks. I would pump and get less than an oz after 30 minutes. I did visit my LC and we did weight before and after nursing. The baby was getting about .3 oz each time.

So from the start we have had supply issues.

The other thing I wanted to add was I DO work part time. I have the luxury of working 3 days each week and then I am off for 6 straight days every other weekend. Is there a schedule (besides the one you gave me already) that you would suggest?

Also, I DID start the fenugreek and the blessed thistle and I am certain that I see an increase! I just pumped and got 2.5 oz in about 15 minutes. That is certainly a change from what I was used to! :)
answer from the lactation consultant
The main idea is to feed the baby from the breast as much as possible. It is a much better at stimulating and emptying than any pump. And some women simply do not respond to a pump. Have you tried hand expressing? I have a link under working moms on hand expressing if you have not.

So when you are off, feed her. Do not pump and give bottles. I hardly EVER recommend pumping after feeding unless you have very low supply. Again, I would not suggest any bottle feedings while you are available to nurse.
Continue to take the fenugreek and blessed thistle as long as you see good results from that then just continue. If those begin to not give you good results then look into Domperidone, I have had one client who had little results from herbs and yet had great results with the Domperidone.
Does that answer your question?
Liz Pevytoe, RN, IBCLC