Too pump or not to pump-WWYD?

[happysmileylady]

So, 2 days post partum and milk is in. And I am very engorged, I feel like I have 2 bowling balls on my chest.

The problem is, I am so big, already, that it's making getting a proper latch difficult. My nipples are totally flattened out, and won't let him get it right.

I want to pump some of this off, so that he can get a good latch, but I know that ultimately that's going to make the problem worse in the long term, to solve the short term issue.

WWYD?

[BeccaSueCongdon]

You can pump enough off to feel comfortable, or to return your nipples to their normal shape without causing problems. :-) Just pump off enough to feel comfortable, but don't empty the breast, and you'll be ok.

((hugs))

[Connor]

You could express just a little bit to soften up the areola. I can grab a link tomorrow but you could also try reverse pressure softening.

[starbeam]

as said, pumping to just ease the engorgement shouldn't increase your supply - it's only when you pump past milk dripping easily, so your body thinks, oh i need to make more milk! that you really increase your supply

also try showers/hot baths, they can lessen engorgement and you can even nurse in the tub! just soak for a few minutes then have your hubby bring you the baby!

[VeganCupcake]

I would do reverse pressure softening, too. http://kellymom.com/bf/concerns/mother/rev_pressure_soft_cotterman/

[buko]

Out of curiosity, is a manual a better choice in this situation, or does it not matter?

[tibeca]

Doesn't matter. Pump only until the nipple shape is back to somewhat normal. Even hand expression is an option.

[happysmileylady]

Thanks ladies! I went with some hand expression in the shower instead and it helped a LOT. Little guy is doing so well with the overactive letdown that happens from so much milk, so I don't think it will be long at all before my body figures out what he needs.

[hpfgirl]

Yay! Those first few days are tough. I can't imagine what those babies think when we offer them a balloon to try to latch onto.

[abunchoflemons]

Lol. I was engorgedvall the time. I noticed though 2nd time hand was softer cuz I found my powered pump still pulled lots. I felt like a cow getting milked. Hand was softer & just relieved enough. Or me it was. Hard to pump to get rid of the engorgement. I also used heat packs too nuk I think from target & that helped.