Been 2 weeks and I am tired of pumping. I only pump like 20-30 per session and 5x a time but each time it takes almost 1h from start to finish (lube the flange, gather the equipment, find a spot, find my water/food, pump, clean up and put stuff away) and I am not even washing them (hubby is doing that).

What did you do to make it more efficient?

Also I can't seem to figure my flange fitting. I follow the guidelines and the suggested one is more uncomfortable than a large size. Help.

like
Posting as :
works at
You are currently posting as works at

Are you exclusively pumping? Unfortunately, you’ll need to pump a lot more than five times in 24 hours to establish and maintain supply. The best tips I have are to get a cart, leave it in the place that you will pump during the day, buy tons of spare parts and keep the carts stocked with water, snacks, and all of your pump parts. Roll the cart into your bedroom so that you are set up to do your overnight pumps. As far as flange sizing, highly recommend buying a digital caliper on Amazon and using that to measure. I exclusively pumped for a year with my first so I get how time consuming it is. Looking back, I probably should have more seriously considered just switching to formula. You can stop whenever you want to, but I recommend not quitting on a bad day just in case you you regret it in the future.

like

I'm trying to get back to nursing. So far with 5x pump, I have enough for LO.

I'm horrified of over supply, clog duct and matitistis since I'm trying to transition to nursing.

Had to pump cause baby has jaundice and need to feed her more and still practicing on latching

I had about 8 sets of pumping parts so I don’t have to wash them as often. You can also put your pump parts in the fridge in between pumping sessions.

I stopped at 5 months and felt like a huge weight lifted from my shoulders. So if you feel like you want to stop and switch to formula, it’s completely okay!

like

Have enough parts to last 1.5-2 days, use the refrigerator hack for pump parts, make sure you UNDERSTAND your pump settings… I EP’d with my 2nd kid and it took me 48 minutes of just pumping to empty. With my 3rd kid I saw a qualified EP LC who showed me how to toggle between massage and letdown modes and fitted me properly with flange size and I went from 48 minute pump sessions to 24 minutes.

likehelpful

Pumping is tough. I find it to be such a mental drain and it really bums me out. If this is you too, quit. It will be ok, I promise 💕

like

The first months were like this. I was triple feeding as per the instructions of my LC. So breastfeeding, bottle, and then formula, followed by burping and nap. The short 30 min gap I had was for pumping for next feed. 10x a day everyday for 2 months.
It was hell.

After 3 months your supply establishes and you can pump faster on a higher setting because your nipples are dead. I don't lube my parts. I just adjust in bra and pump 20 min, transfer to bottles and get back to my day. Pump in the same spot each time so your snacks stash is already there. Just refill water bottle when putting things in the fridge at the end, and chug as you walk away.

Gotta optimize your process or you'll never sustain it as baby gets older and work starts again. But just rest the first 6 weeks, after that you can figure things out.

like

Came here to post this. This is me at the moment. Baby born underweight and so doing the same feeding plan you did for your first two months (my bub is 3 weeks). Considering throwing the towel in and pumping only especially because each feed when I start w BF bub normally gets hysterical at some point but if I go bottle only he will take it. As someone who has been here, how did it turn out? Should I stick w nursing or is going to pump only something I might NOT live to regret….?

like

You don’t have to keep doing this, you know. Your health and sanity matter. I breastfed for 4 days and hung it up. My son slurped down that bottle, fell asleep for 3 hrs and we never looked back. Best thing I ever did and if I have another kid I will not attempt to breastfeed. I will also hire a night nurse and not kill myself.

like

I second this. I gave up after a few weeks and it was the best thing I could do for myself (more sleep and sanity as I was getting deeply depressed at my lack of supply and how ridiculous triple feeding was) and my baby (more cuddle time with him!)

I have a pumping station where all my stuff is (pump, water etc) and I pump there most of the time. I highly recommend getting the flange right as that affects how effectively you pump and impacts timing ( I usually only pump 30 min in my first am session since it’s been all night). Also, recommend the lavie warming massagers and coboo spray from Amazon, both of which can cut down on time. I wash every 2/3 pumps and just pop them in a Tupperware in the fridge in between (not per cdc guidelines but most EP moms seem to do this). Lastly, it gets easier and not efficient with time!

like

Fridge hack between pump sessions, pitcher method for storing, and microwave lansinoh pads for heat on flanges. Also the lactek flanges are amazing. Check out bemybreastfriend on insta for lots of pumping tips.

like

And feel free to quit- on a bad day, on a good day, on a Wednesday- formula is an awesome option.

like

If you’re happy to throw down in dollars, or if you work at EY and can get them for free, highly recommend the limerick flanges that are fully silicone and truly one size fits all

like

Pumping is exhausting. When kid start to latch and drink milk life becomes better. Try power pumping.

like

I had my pump in a backpack. So when I pumped at home I could be anywhere. I loved the mobility of it. When I was at work during a break I’d run and grab a large milkshake to boost my calories. My son didn’t latch but I wanted him to have my breast milk. Plus it meant dad could feed in the middle of the night also.

If pumping is stressing you out, use formula. The most important thing is that you enjoy this time with your baby and that there is no resentment over something that doesn’t have to be an issue!

like

Related Posts

Hey guys… I’m a case worker in child safety and I’m someone who loves being outdoors/dies at a desk all day. I’m hoping to organise that at least once a week I can go to a cafe and catch up on all my case notes that need to go into the system.
So far the only reason I’ve been told no is that “if you do then everyone will want to and then no one will be in the office” … how can I convince them that I work better out of the office and get this freedom & mental break for myself?

like

So close to moving out of parent's home in NY and saying to hell to saving money😔
For those that are >mid 20s, how do you manage living with noisy, overly friendly (inviting guests to stay for weeks), and constant requests (setting doc apts, calling customer service, taking car to mechanics, driving them everywhere, ton of tech help, etc.) parents?

like

Naps in the uber from Manhattan to LGA, who's with me? guaranteed 45 -60 min of sleep in the afternoons 😪😪

like

Now the CDC says teachers don’t need vaccine shots to reopen schools?

like

Read divorce thread posted a few weeks back, going through the same, I’d like to ask: how much was alimony and child support as a % of income? Full custody to spouse, have 2 children, area = NE US

helpful

As an Asian American, have you experienced bias this year that you believe was related to coronavirus?

like

How old was ur first kid when u and ur partner left them for an overnight trip??

like

Anyone else kinda enjoying the wfh/lack of pressure to go out? I got a pay cut, I’m working harder than ever and things are uncertain but I can’t help but feel relieved to not be so emotionally drained. Maybe it’s because I’ve been doing a lot of emotional labor for others? 😬

like

Brokenbrain.com - docu series about mental health

like

Even though this project is a shit show and am fighting depression, it's comforting to watch the clouds as we pass by, and realize that this will pass. I will be stronger today and so will you ✈️❤️🙃⛅

like

I had a miscarriage and I am scared to get pregnant.

like

Kamusta? I'm new here.
I'm a CPA in the Philippines. I'm thinking if I can continue my profession and progress my career in other country and also to seek higher salary with great benefits but less cost of living. Where do you think should I start checking on? 😁
I'm thinking if I should go back as External Assurance Auditor to where I am 2.5 yrs ago in a one of the Big 4 before I became a Consultant on a project-based as, so far, as Tax Specialist. Any advise to my baby mind? Thank you! 😊

like

Favorite science show to watch as kid?

like

Got an email from the California Bar today about withdrawing due to COVID. I got sick for a week with the non-COVID flu and have been considering withdrawing and taking the July exam instead, so I guess I’m not alone. Is anybody on here who either withdrew or is considering withdrawing from the Feb bar because of illness?

like

I received a job offer for a PM position with a base of $125K and a 10% bonus, fully remote and ok benefits. The parental leave is pretty bad, just FMLA and STD/LTD so the most I’d get is 60% of my salary for 12 weeks. I’ve cancelled most of my interviews except for one where the pay is $135K, 20% bonus, hybrid schedule, good benefits and 16 weeks fully paid parental leave. I’d like to start my family in a year or two - is it better to take the remote gig or the hybrid role with full paid leave?

Can anyone offer advice , possible job openings for an individual that is in the last semester of earning certification after student teaching hours are acquired? This individual has been working/ cos chi big in the school system for over 12 years… experience with autistic students , middle school , students spending time in the alternative setting… pending masters degree in secondary education… coursework completed (with exception of student teaching)… also enrolled in an alt/cert. master

like

Would really love to help my lovely sister in law find a job in NYC or CT. She is a certified nutritionist, celebrity personal chef (her current job in Aspen but she is moving to Westport in January) and an all-around terrific, dedicated, hardworking person. She gets down around the holidays because she's single and doesn't have kids, but is an amazing aunt to our kids. Does anyone have any leads in the health/ wellness space? Im in biglaw and this is out of my depth a bit. TIA, Happy Holidays!

likehelpful

5 weeks ago I told my boss we need to start working on a “we’re open again” spot. She basically called me blind for not seeing that the Covid crisis was nowhere near finished and then accused me of not having enough work to do. This morning at 6 am she texted me - “Need you to kick off a ‘we’re open again’ spot with the agency. Tell them they have 1.5 weeks to stand it up.”

likefunny

I just logged in for open enrollment and see that my benefit costs are increasing quite a bit. Family of 4 - medical/dental/vision will be about $345/pay period plus whatever I contribute to my HSA. Is this the norm now or is this way too much? We are also on an income based rate plan and I recently crossed into the bottom of the most expensive tier so it’s an even bigger hit over the normal YoY increase.

Any new parents here struggling with going back. I will be leaving my wee one for the first time next week & am really nervous & devastated. Would appreciate any tips or advice on getting through going back to work post baby.

like

More Posts

Hi All,

Please provide referrals or leads for the legal hiring in BIG 4.
I hold 3 years of experience in Legal Contract Management and have done my LLM too. Pls DM or connect. Your input would be highly appreciated.

Thanks!

like

Hey guys, I am new here and need few likes 🙂. I appreciate your help☺. Thanks

likesmart

Hi fishes,

Can you provide some good online (preferbly free) sources that have data science/machine learning unstructured interview problems??
Want to prepare for a ds interview

like

How strict is the hybrid model in Amazon. Does they really forcing for level L4. Or can I continue remote work.Amazon Amazon India Amazon Web Services

like

Thoughts on daycare vs. nanny starting at 4 months old?

like

Does Capgemini invent give onsite opportunities to B2 consultants?

like

What is the CFM meeting invite sent by the leadership and SMs?

What's BDO AND RMS Offering in India to TCII AND ACTING SENIORS ?

like

My partner lateraled as a senior associate (now a 7th year) and hasn't yet received clear direction on ascension to partnership. Curious what your firms have told you about pathways to partnership? Are you eligible to be made partner as a 9th year? What factors go into consideration? Are you expected to generate business before you achieve partner? How much?

like

Put the Merci on a Forstner Klip bracelet and I love it. Should mention that the bracelet shipped with spring bars that were a fraction of a millimeter too large, but I had other spring bars I was able to use. Other than that happy with the quality and the look.

Post Photo
like

I hate that I’m saying this but I really just want a beautiful watch that is horologically great but just has one pusher that sends a signal to your phone to do one specific task. I can’t tell you how often I’m out and about and I would love to just press a pusher on the side of a Tudor or something and it can’t just tell my phone to Shazam a song or something. I don’t want a screen, I don’t want it to be complicated, I don’t want it to be noticeable. I don’t have the answer, just the desire

like

Will be credentialing a clinician going solo with 3 insurance companies. Clinician asked for my rates, what should I charge them?

like

11 likes plz to unlock my dm..

like

If I graduated from undergrad 9 years ago and have been working all that time, and have an MBA (pursued while working) what kind of TC and level should I be at? I'm an L5, and 30 years old. TC is $175k. I feel like i'm behind and I'm starting to panic.

like

AWS big data specialty exam worth taking? Does it involve any coding?

Am a fresher graduate and Have a good Technical skills on JAVA,SQl. please anyone could u able to refer me.My current location is banglore

like

Thoughts on DAVID Miami and/or GUT?

likehelpful

Want to improve my verbal and written communication skills. I hear reading more would help but I don’t read as much as I used to. So I’m wondering what books would help with that? Should I just read books that tickle my fancy like suspense and true crime novels? Help! Welcome to all book recommendations.

like

Do you think Apple made the best strategic decision by launching iPhone 14?

like

Additional Posts in Working Moms

Anyone return to work from maternity leave experience a major change in their role (i.e. getting sidelined or unofficially demoted in their role)? What steps did you take to address this?

like

My son’s first birthday is coming up and my parents want to gift him $1k in a separate account under his name for him to use in the future. My husband and I make about $250 combined so but paying off student loans and a mortgage so don’t have much in assets. My parents only make $50-70k a year. We’re all pretty clueless about money. What would be the best way to invest in his future?

like

I just want to share my joy that season 5 of Workin’ Moms is here on Netflix!

like

How old was ur first kid when u and ur partner left them for an overnight trip??

like

I would love to hear how some women successfully attended school while raising their young children (babies, toddlers). Please share the resources and time management strategies you have used that worked well. Thank you ❤️

like

Need to unlock my dms please like. Thank you!

Post Photo
likesmart

I’m a hit or miss with giving birthday presents to my husband. Anyone with a sentimental SO where they loved their gift or something you did that made them feel extra special for their birthday? We have an almost 1 year old if that helps & our son is his world. All suggestions welcome! It’s 3 days away 🙈

like

Would really love to help my lovely sister in law find a job in NYC or CT. She is a certified nutritionist, celebrity personal chef (her current job in Aspen but she is moving to Westport in January) and an all-around terrific, dedicated, hardworking person. She gets down around the holidays because she's single and doesn't have kids, but is an amazing aunt to our kids. Does anyone have any leads in the health/ wellness space? Im in biglaw and this is out of my depth a bit. TIA, Happy Holidays!

likehelpful

Looking for support & validation.
I’m divorced & have 2 boys, 6 & 4 yo. Last week I took the 6 yo for a pedicure and he chose blue nail polish, well aware that he didn’t have to choose any at all. FFW to this week. It’s a “boys weekend” (kids w/dad). Their grandad is also in town, since Wed. Dad has called to ask to have the boys in the evenings (i have W &Th, always). I have said “ok, but only if you don’t say anything negative about the polish.” So… they haven’t seen them. This hurts.

likefunny

I was hired as a staffing Manager working from home for a private home care company in California. I love balled myself and asked for 55k which they gave exactly that. I started back in June in January I was given a $5000 raise. I am thinking renegotiating my contract but I am a bit scared. I just feel like I am the lowest paid person and the raise to my gave me proved just that. Any advice?

like

Hi working moms at EY, when should I contact Limericks lactation consultant? Are they helpful? I have my doula and she also offers lactation but I’m not sure if I should also check Limericks. I’m 30 weeks pregnant. TIA!!

like

Hi! Can anyone here help with a referral to Liberty Mutual?

like

Really struggling to decide whether we should have a third child. Any advice from those that have made this decision?

like

any mommas have a recommendation for speech delay therapists that take insurance ? i’m in nyc.

like

Is anyone living on different floors with ~1 year old? Does it work, PROs, CONs? Our master bedroom is upstairs. There are two bedrooms downstairs so I always thought we’d use one of those rooms as our bedroom so we’re on the same floor with baby but it seems husband wants to stay upstairs. And he’s using one of the rooms downstairs as a home office. We bought this house so cannot move in the short term.

like

We’re about to have our first and will be having a full time nanny. Would a nanny help with BLW, elimination communication, calming toddler tantrums, do Montessori style activities, teach manners? Trying to understand how involved nannies are.

like

Hi Moms. I’m 4.5mo postpartum with my first, and I’m having incredible feelings of resentment toward my husband, who I love dearly and with whom I’ve always had a great relationship. It feels like he’s not factoring me or the baby into his decisions (e.g. going on a 4d boys trip, attending big events), while I’m left with the consequences. My mat leave is ending, and he’s now sick with COVID. He’s quarantining at my in-laws while I return to work and take care of baby. I’m so frustrated… (cont.)

likehelpful

Would you take on extra responsibilities when in early pregnancy if it would help your chances for a promotion or pay raise but not guaranteed? Opp would last for the entire year 2023

like

I (36F) am married to another woman (34F) and we have a baby (5moF). We split all childcare, cleaning, meal prep, errands etc fairly evenly and it works well. Maybe she cooks more than I do bc she likes it, and I clean more bc I need to have a clean house. My friend (35F) recently took a business trip and literally put a binder together with instructions for her husband re: daycare drop off and pick up, what to feed the kids, when to take out the trash and so on. (Cont in comments)

like

New to Fishbowl?

Download the Fishbowl app to
unlock all discussions on Fishbowl.
That was just a preview…
Sign Up to see all discussions
  • Discover what it’s like to work at companies from real professionals
  • Get candid advice from people in your field in a safe space
  • Chat and network with other professionals in your field
Sign up in seconds to unlock all discussions on Fishbowl.

Already a user?
Login here

Share

Embed this post

Copy and paste embed code on your site

Preview

Download the
Fishbowl app

See what’s happening in your industry
from the palm of your hand.

A phone with Fishbowl app

Send download link to your phone

OR

Scan your QR code to download
Fishbowl app on your mobile

By continuing you agree to Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

Messaging rates may apply

Download app

Sign up for free to view this conversation on Fishbowl

By continuing you agree to Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

Already have an account? Log in

Sign up for free to continue using Fishbowl

By continuing you agree to Terms of Use(New) and Privacy Policy(New)
Messaging rates may apply

Already have an account? Log in

For account settings, visit Fishbowl on Desktop Browser or

General

Legal