Concerned about amount pumped

[melody330]

Short answer: no, don't be concerned


Long answer: pumping is not as effective as nursing, and some moms don't pump well. What you pump has NO relation to how much baby is getting while nursing. Pumping is a learned skill. Sometimes you have to play with the settings to get your best output. I could never go above about 50% auction or I wouldn't get anything.

You are just building your stash - which is a bonus. There really is no reason to have a huge freezer full of BM. Anytime baby gets a bottle you need to pump, so technically you should always be replacing what's in the freezer. thus, no need for extra. 2 oz is fine for now.

Again, please remember that the amount you pump has NOTHING to do with how much baby is getting while nursing! You are doing just fine no need to worry

[melody330]

All you NEED is enough for that first day. Maybe 12-15 oz depending on how long you are away from LO.

Pumping at work can be stressful, but make sure you pump every 2.5/3 hrs and never, ever skip a session. It is a slippery slope.

Try not to stress - it doesn't help your cause make sure you have a hands free setup for pumping. Some ladies can rig up their pump parts to their bra with hair ties, but I preferred a hands free bra. Make sure your flanges are the correct fit, and change your pump parts often.

You can do it! Good luck!

[melody330]

I am a teacher too. It was hard, but I had to be my own advocate.

[casey]

Our bodies regulate to what LO needs. So, to "only" get 2oz when LO has had all her needs met is a good thing. Lots of women don't get more than an extra ounce at a time. When you got back to work, you'll be pumping to replace feeds. You should get closer to an ounce per hour total.

I know the teaching schedule is just plain hard. Advocate for yourself so you can feed your child your way. 4.5 hours is a long stretch to go without nursing or pumping (I don't think I got there until10m). If you can squeeze in a top-off nurse between wakeup and separation, could you move pump times so there is less of a gap? That will also decrease the total ounces lo might need when away from you.

Just a quick note: motn pumping can be a slippery slope because it tells your body to make more milk at that time. If you don't mind the missed sleep in favor of stash, keep on. Otherwise, you might just want to hand express to comfort.

[fish8412]

No do not be concerned! That is actually a decent amount of milk to pump from just 1 side. Remember that dry pumping stimulates production so keep pumping about 5 minutes after the milk stops coming. You may get another let down. Even if you don't, you still told your body to make more milk.

I was a teacher before being a stay at home mom so I understand your concern for finding time to pump. Don't be afraid to speak up for yourself. Getting milk for your LO is more important than your job so always pump at your scheduled times no matter what is going on. Also make sure you eat and drink lots of water! I remember days where I would just forget to eat because I was too busy.
Keep lots of protein bars and bottles of water in your desk. Good luck! You can do it!

[liziz]

Sounds like you'll be fine.

I don't teach, but I know the scheduling is rough. When I have to step away from my work, all I say to myself is "feeding my baby is the most important thing". It helps get me through, and make sure I have my priorities lined up.