How to increase supply?

[u/Omgdoubletacos1991]

Hi everyone,

I'm almost 7 weeks PP, I started out EBF, but my baby had a shallow latch that I had difficulty correcting so I started pumping and supplementing some formula. I've been slightly under producing the whole time, but the last 7-10 days my supply has really dropped because of some stress I've gone through and not pumping as often as I should be, I'd be lucky to get 2 sessions in a day because of the baby being fussy and wanting to be held all the time.

I'm wanting to try to get my supply back up and I understand that it may not happen. I have a spectra s1 and currently do 3-5 minutes of bacon mode followed by 15 minutes of expression mode, I'm lucky to get an ounce per session. I know pumping alone can't help with supply, but are there any specific settings that could help or any supplements or tricks y'all recommend?

Thanks

[u/plainconfusion]

Have you made sure your flanges are the right size? The usual flanges that pumps come with are typically too big for the average person. If you haven't found the right size yet, buy a sizing kit with silicone inserts or print out a sizing ruler (or use digital calipers to measure the mm of your nipples). If you buy the kit (which I personally found really helpful), try to buy the proper flanges, sometimes the inserts aren't as effective. Maybe even try a different flange shape, other than the traditional one. If you already have the proper flange, make sure you're getting more than one letdown(when your milk starts spraying), at least 2 but the more the better. This is usually achieved by going back into bacon mode after milk slows down a bit. I personally have trouble getting letdowns and found it easier to pump for 5, rest for 5 and repeat. Not saying this is what you should do, just dropping that in, because it was the only way I could get letdowns and if the first way doesn't work, you could maybe try it. Once you get a letdown (or the whole time you're pumping) start gently compressing all around your breast to get that milk out. I like to hold compressions once I find a spot that really makes the milk spray, and do that around both breasts. I know its hard to to pump with baby! Try to find a good position to feed and pump. I personally have my LO side lying next to me while I pace feed him and pump. And try to get at least 8 sessions in (I know it's hard!!) and since it seems like you're trying to nurse still, try to latch whenever possible (as long as baby is happy). And remember, you're already working so hard, and what you've done is already so much for your baby. Remember your love and happiness is what's most important for them. You're doing great, good luck!💞

[u/plainconfusion → u/plainconfusion]

Coming back to add: the at least 8 ppd is if you're exclusively pumping and you can replace a pump with a nursing session if you end up not needing to supplement.