Do you have to pump breastmilk?
Show your support
I wouldn't start pumping for at least a few weeks yet until your supply regulates itself, there's no need to pump unless you want to - I had to pump with my first as he was in the NICU and I ended up with a massive oversupply because I was producing way more than baby needed! X
Yep I agree with @Rachel I never pumped either and never had any issues your body will create supply as your baby feeds. It's a personal choice
I'm pumping but only because my daughter dropped 10% and is struggling to gain back i would avoid if you don't want an oversupply and a freezer full of milk
If you have a breastfeeding support team in your area I would request them to come out and see you, assess latch and make sure baby is feeding efficiently. I had them out to see me today and they’ve massively improved his latch and I didn’t have any pain which to me is a miracle! Worth doing even if you think you know what you’re doing. I’ve had many maternity staff tell me his latch looks great but I’m glad I pushed and got the actual feeding team out. Despite him gaining weight and me hearing him swallow there was obviously still improvement to be made 🤍
@Jmt I second this , I had them out on day 4 and they helped me with my latch and I'm still working with them now due to baby not gaining much weight and they've just leant me a pump, they check in every 2 days to weigh baby and see how were getting on 😊
There is absolutely no need to pump if you don’t want to. As you say it would increase supply. I never pumped for either baby as I cba to clean the parts and find breastfeeding way easier.