No let down with pump!

Meggan - posted on 02/16/2010

Thanks for the suggestions. I have tried those things...maybe I will try a larger shield. I think it is really a mental game that I need to get over!

Jackie - posted on 02/15/2010

It doesn't seem to be the speed since this very pump has worked for you in the past. Have you tried any warm compresses prior to the pumping. I think it might be the relaxing part. If there is any added stress lately, or change in routine or daily life, that could also be the case. Try not to get stressed out about this very issue. I have had the very same thing happen to me and I find myself tense and rigid in anticipation of letdown, which only hinders it. I guess just try to relax, close your eyes, be warm and cozy as much as possible, and believe that this time, it'll work. I have been able to "psych myself" into letdown. Isn't it amazing how all these little things come into play? Those little babies are just pros! Perhaps you could try a different size breast shield that sucks more of your areola into it, thus stimulating it more. I had to do that. Good luck to you again!

Meggan - posted on 02/15/2010

i have tried taking my baby's clothes, looking at pictures, etc. it doesn't seem to help. Today I came home early and after my baby stimulated my let down, I pumped 5+ oz. It is getting frustraing, because I know it is in there it just won't come out.



I am also wondering why this is a problem all of a sudden when my baby is over 4 months old.



Also I have an old model of the Medela pump. I have had it tested and the suction is strong; however it only has an option to control strength of suction not speed as well.



Do any of you think I need to get a pump that has a speed control so that it will be able to mimick my baby's quicker suck before the milk is coming out? or is it more the case that I can't seem to relax?

Jackie - posted on 02/15/2010

I have always had trouble with let down and I have a great pump. I have to hand express a bit of one side while massaging the nipple on the opposite side. It usually works even if it takes a bit. I also massage one niple while pumping the opposite side once the flow starts- just to keep it going! Good luck!

Tris - posted on 02/15/2010

try to look at a picture of your baby or a piece of something that smells like baby.hand expressing also ..

Claire - posted on 02/15/2010

I hope u have some better luck and this is just a hitch....Lee-Ann has mentioned everything I can think of.....good luck. xxx

Lee-Ann - posted on 02/15/2010

The normal recommendations are to relax, while pumping. Think about your baby look at his picture, smell a piece of his clothing. Distract yourself, listen to soft music. Practice gentle breast massage before pumping, and use breast compression while pumping. You might want to try hand expressing, it is often more productive than a pump.

Also check changes to your diet or lifestyle. Birthcontrol, OTC cold remedies and chronic alcohol use can effect milk production. High amounts of Sage, Peppermint and parsley an also impede production.

Hope you can figure this out soon.