The Nursing Baby - Q&A

Jennifer Wong asks:
I have 9 week old twins and have pumped mostly. We tried nursing, and the twins would not latch on , or if they did it was just the tip of the nipple. I want to know how to up the milk supply because I don't like giving them formula. They get up to 12 ounces of formula a day and 20 ounces of breastmilk each, if I can get that much pumped. I tried fenugreek, but it seemed like my supply went down some instead of increasing a little. Can you give me any suggestions please. Thank you.

Jennifer,

First, review our Pumping Tips. There are some more tips here that may help: Q&A.

And here's a story of a mom who started off exclusively pumping and went to fulltime nursing after 3 months that you might find inspirational: Q&A.

The basic problem with pumping exclusively is that breastpumps are not as efficient as babies at expressing milk. Although there are exceptions, most women find their supply decreasing as time goes by. And around 9 months of age, many moms also find another time when their pumping supply seems to decrease.

The only way to increase your supply is to pump more to get more milk. If you begin supplementing with formula your supply will begin to decrease even more quickly. At some point, many mothers realize they can't spend as much time as they want with their babies while pumping, and begin to wean.

Jennifer, the fact that you are pumping for twins makes it more difficult for you.

I urge you to seek help and companionship at the Pumping Moms Information Exchange. They have a FAQ that has lots of information pertaining to your situation, and they also have support lists where I believe you could benefit from some emotional support.

In addition, you should seek an IBCLC qualified lactation consultant. She may be able to look at your situation and make recommendations to improve your situation.

These tips are not intended to be medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider if you have questions.

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