Expert: ruth kraft - 9/24/2009

Question
I'll be going back to work in 2 weeks and I'm trying to build up a supply of breastmilk for my son who will be then be 6 weeks old.  My question is, how much breastmilk (how many ounces)will he need to take per feeding while I'm at work?  I've been pumping only once or twice at a day so far and manage to get about 3-5 ounces a day.  When I go back to work I will try to pump at least 3 times a day - at the times that he would normally be breastfeeding - and I hope to get as much as he will need to take for the following day.
Thanks for your response!

Answer
Hello. the amount of breastmilk is often based on weight. However, 2-3 ounces for a 6 week old is really about average. so it sounds like you are right on target. TO build up the milk, continue pumping at each feeding that will coinside with your breaks so that your breasts get accustomed to those times a day. I also suggest pumping one extra time in the morning before you go to work. feed the baby, then before you leave, pump for 10-15 mintues. this will help build more supply as your milk will be most plentiful in the morning. This shoudl give you plenty. and know, that on days that you don't seem to get "enough" its okay. The baby once he sees you will make up for it in the evening when he is nursing right from you. Also remember that bottle feeding is alot easier than breastfeeding. So, when he takes a bottle he may guzzle it and then be fussy a bit. He doesnt know that he is full yet... so don't worry if this happens. Give him a pacifier for a few minutes and he will understand he is then full :)

good luck!