Is Any Breastmilk better than none?

[janelle]

We have switched to formula for a number of reasons.  I was wondering though with what milk I do have is it worth expressing and giving it to ds.  Does it still have "value" if he is not fully breastfed. If I do express, how long can I expect to maintain enough milk for his night feed?

[jbepko]

YES! Any breastmilk is better than none. How much you will need to express depends on your supply. He'll likely need 4 oz for that feed. Also remember that pumping isn't as effective as nursing, so you may have to pump more. Every drop of BM is  a precious gift to your son!

[RachelC]

I agree.  Later when you introduce solids (recomended not before 6 months), the milk you pump can be used in cerals or to thin the thicker foods (if you are not getting enough for the feed... or too much!)

[linfran]

I expressed and formula fed (alternately) and was able to keep this up for a number of weeks, as I could store breastmilk (clearly labelled with the date) in the fridge for the next day or in the freezer where it would keep longer.

[SylvieA]

Hi
I have been combo beeding my DS for since he is about 4 months old and he is 7 months now, it is going good so fare. At one point I was hoping on excusivley bfeeding again but I know it won't happen. So I still bfeed in the morning and pump twice a day. I always make sure to pump for about 5 minutes more after the last drop (total of 20-30 minutes each time) That way I was able to maintain what I still have, and increase it a bit. I use it in any solides than needs thinning and in cereal.  I keep telling myself that a little is better than none. After reading this it made me want to continue. http://www.kellymom.com/nutrition/milk/immunefactors.html
And here is another link on combo feeding
http://www.kellymom.com/bf/weaning/weaning-partial.html   
HTH

[janelle]

Thanks Ladies