Pumping at work

[starsd]

I work at a very small office that has no private offices. So I have to either pump in the common area of the bathroom (no privacy at all) or in my car (more privacy, but a little cramped.)

The pumping is going ok, though it takes two sessions to get one feedings worth. Does anyone know if that is normal or is my supply low?

I have a Medela Pump In Style and I had both sides tested for suction power and both sides tested "excellent." Do some women just always have low amount results while pumping? I am not worried about my baby getting enough during nursing sessions just the amount I pump out. It has been two weeks now and no improvment in the amount I get each time. It is steady at 2.5 to 3.5 from both sides during a ten minute session.

I would appreciate any insight you can give me.

Thanks

[KristaRae]

From one Krista to another...

Here's what I found. Read the "What is normal" section:
http://www.kellymom.com/bf/pumping/pumping_decrease.html

[starsd]

Thanks. It turns out that Iam actually pumping a little bit more than average. I just wish it was more.

Krista

[Kristie]

You are doing well, especially considering you have little privacy and only ten minutes. Nice job.

If you need more milk, you could try to add a session of pumping at home (if you aren't already and you can find the time). I used to pump while eating breakfast, but that was only possible because I got up early and my baby used to sleep until I woke her to feed her before going to work.

[Vanessa619]

hey just a little info i found out the other day. i went to a bf class with a pregnant friend and your job HAS to provide you with a private place to pump and it cant be a bathroom. and thats the law. maybe being in a more relaxed environment with more privacy will help with how much milk you express. just a thought! :)
Vanessa

[starsd]

I am an independant contractor - so I am my boss. So it is my responsibility to provide me with a place to pump. I can pump in my office off of the conference room - when the supervising attorney is not using the conference room. The other times, the best I can provide for my only employee, me, is the car. I have a nice car with comfy leather seats. I just turn on some classical musice and relax. It really is more comfortable for me than the office.

Also, I do pump first thing in the morning and then feed my daughter about an hour later. That session is my most productive one. Though, I do think I am going add another session right before I go to sleep. Right now I am able to keep up with her feeding demands so that is good.

I guess my main gripe is that I have a friend, a stay at home mom, who breastfeeds full time and pumps in btw and gets about 8oz each time she pumps! I suppose I should be greatful that I am able to pump enough to feed my baby at least, I guess it is just a natural human reaction to compare to others. I just need to be more positive.

Thanks again for your comments and advice.

[MyABCLife]

I would love to see an episode of Pregtastic or Mommy's Milk and More dedciated to the working/breastfeeding mom.