best time to pump breast milk?

[debo620]

Hello, I need to start introducing bottles to my 14week old ds. so far he has had about 3 bottles and I need to be more consistent. I am wondering when the best time to pump breast milk? ie. in relation to actual breast feed. 1hour after? 1hour before? How much should I aim for---4oz?
Thankyou, Deborah

[JacobMarksMummy]

I always found it best to pump at the first morning feed whilst ds fed from the other breast as it seemed to help with my let-down. This was great because I've always struggled to pump. I think whenever you pump shud be fine as long as its at around the same time everyday. it may take a few days for your body to get the message and start to produce more milk at that time . Think about your day and when is best for you, how easily you can express your milk and try and keep in mind that supply can wane a little towards the end of the day 

[daisymelan]

As for the amount deborah, there is no certain amount.  Every mom is different.  4oz was a lot for me to be able to pump, while some mom's can get 8oz in 5 minutes.  The more consistent you are, the more you will be able to pump. 

And remember all the other tips for keepign supply up.  Lots of fluids, lots of rest, etc.

[carmkaylasmom]

yep, first thing in the morning is probably the best time as you are rested?!

[momofowen]

I would say 1 hour after nursing,  if yo uare consistent with pumping, you will produce more, say every day after the 9 am feeed you pump at 10 am - your body will adjust and create more of a supply for that timeframe.  also if you are looking to increase supply amount, try mothers milk tea.  it is fantastic, deink it for two days, and see a difference.  also remember to load up on the water, especially wehn pumping more, it will help with the supply.

[debo620]

thankyou all for your suggestions. I will try for the morning after 2nd feed while ds is awake. Unfortunately it is very hard to find the time since we are having some nap issues. if I pump at lets say 10am---will I then use that milk for the next feed?
Deborah

[daisymelan]

If you want to just to practice with bottles you can, but a lot of mom's will freeze it or save it for a dream feed or an evening feed that they let their husband/partner do for them.  Well, that was our plan anyway  .