Should you pump if you have oversupply?

Understanding Oversupply and Pumping
For many breastfeeding mothers, the journey can be fraught with challenges, one of which is the issue of oversupply. While it may seem like a fortunate problem to have, an oversupply of breast milk can lead to discomfort for both mother and baby. The question arises: should you continue to pump if you find yourself in this situation?
The Nature of Oversupply
Oversupply occurs when a mother produces more milk than her baby needs. This can lead to a range of issues, including engorgement, painful feeding sessions, and even difficulties for the baby, such as excessive gassiness or difficulty latching due to the forceful letdown of milk. While some babies thrive on a generous milk supply, others may struggle, leading to a less than ideal breastfeeding experience.
Pumping with Oversupply: Pros and Cons
Pumping can be a double-edged sword for mothers experiencing oversupply. On one hand, pumping can help relieve discomfort caused by engorgement and can provide a supply of milk for later use. However, it can also send mixed signals to the body, potentially increasing milk production even further. This is because the body responds to the demand for milk; if you pump frequently, it may interpret this as a need for more milk, exacerbating the oversupply issue.
Recommendations for Pumping
If you are dealing with oversupply, it is crucial to approach pumping with caution. Here are some considerations:
– Limit Pumping Sessions: Instead of pumping frequently, consider limiting sessions to relieve discomfort without signaling your body to produce more milk. This can help maintain a more balanced supply.

– Pump Strategically: If you do need to pump, try to do so after breastfeeding sessions rather than before. This can help ensure that your baby is getting the milk they need while still allowing you to relieve some pressure.
– Monitor Baby’s Response: Pay attention to how your baby reacts during feeding. If they seem overwhelmed or uncomfortable, it may be a sign that your supply is too high.
Conclusion
In summary, while pumping can provide temporary relief for mothers with oversupply, it is essential to be mindful of how it affects overall milk production. By limiting pumping sessions and being strategic about when to pump, mothers can manage their milk supply more effectively, ensuring a more comfortable experience for both themselves and their babies. Balancing the needs of both mother and child is key in navigating the complexities of breastfeeding and milk supply.

Can you gain weight from milk oversupply?

Only if they are combined with excessive weight gain is breast milk oversupply likely to be the cause. Babies are expected to gain around 900 g (2 lb) per month, but in cases of oversupply, they will put on much more – often around double that.

What is the 120 pumping rule?

The first 12 weeks of your breastfeeding journey requires frequent breastmilk removal, stimulating healthy milk production. Studies show moms who exclusively pump for a minimum of 120 minutes per day can make enough to feed their babies primarily breastmilk.

What to do with oversupply of breast milk?

Try feeding positions that use gravity to slow the flow of milk, such as a laid-back nursing position. Burp frequently and give your infant breaks to pace him / herself. Firmly press the pinky side of your hand into your breast (like a karate chop) during the initial fast let down to slow the flow of milk.

Should I pump less if I have an oversupply?

Make sure you are only expressing a small amount – 1 ounce or so – to prevent making an oversupply problem worse. The goal is to feel some relief from engorgement, but not to pump fully.

How many ounces of breastmilk is considered an oversupply?

If you pump in place of breastfeeding, about two or three hours from your last breastfeeding or pumping session—well, here is where your true oversupply will show us what it can do. If average is three to five ounces combined and you are getting that from each breast, you have an oversupply.

Does leaking breasts mean good milk supply?

You can leak breastmilk for a variety of reasons including having a full supply, or if your body is not yet sure how much to produce, if your mature milk is starting to come in, if you’ve missed a feeding, or even if you are just thinking about your baby.

How long does it take to correct oversupply?

There are a few different treatment plans to help mothers who are experiencing an oversupply of breast milk. Some approaches work quickly, while others will take up to 1-2 weeks to reduce the milk supply. Every mom and baby responds differently. You may need to try a couple of solutions to fully resolve the concern.

What is the 3-3-3 rule for breast milk?

The ‘Rule of Three’ guideline suggests allowing the baby to nurse for at least three minutes on each breast to ensure they receive a balance of foremilk (initial, thirst-quenching milk) and hindmilk (higher-fat, calorie-rich milk).

Is it bad to pump if you have an oversupply?

Make sure you are only expressing a small amount – 1 ounce or so – to prevent making an oversupply problem worse. The goal is to feel some relief from engorgement, but not to pump fully.

What is the 5 5 5 rule for breast milk?

Something I recommend to moms is the 5-5-5 rule. Try and use milk within five hours at room temperature, five days in the fridge, and by five months in the freezer.