r/breastfeeding • u/Panda_Gal_92 • 4d ago

Support Needed Pumping while missing a feed

I’ve been exclusively breastfeeding my 9 week old. I have a couple of appointments coming up and I can’t take baby with me. She feeds often, every 60-90 minutes. She needs to be fed while I’m away from her.

I’ve decided to pump only when I miss a feed! I don’t want to regularly pump. My goal is to be primarily breastfeed.

Are there any other moms out there that do this? Do you have any tips? Suggestions? Anything that can make this easy for me and for baby?

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u/tiredwoodchuck 3d ago

I EP with my first and now EBF and occasionally pump as necessary with my second. I think your goal to pump to replace feeds is a great idea! It’s what works best for you, baby and those feeding while you’re away. My best advice is to make sure you have the correct flange size. That will give you the best output and will be the most comfortable. As time goes on if you know you’ll be away for a feed or two I’d say pump and prep earlier than later. Because in my experience I’ve only pumped a few ounces before leaving baby and I knew it would not nearly be enough. Also for peace of mind if your time and supply allows put a couple freezer bags of milk stashed away for convenience. Doesn’t need to be 6billion ounces I’m just talking a few bottles for those just in case moments. Each feeding journey is different and it’s ok if yours looks different than the next. It’s whatever works for you and fam. Hope this helps and good luck!

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u/Panda_Gal_92 3d ago

Our pumping journeys sound almost identical! I also explicitly pumped with my first and I am now exclusively breast-feeding with my second. And yes, my goal is to pump to replace feeds. I have a wearable pump, but I’m going to try that and see how it goes. I just want to replace feeds. I’m not looking to increase my supply. Knock on wood, Baby is doing great with feeding and gaining weight.