Expressing: how much?

[AnneD]

What is the normal amount one should be able to express? I used to get 5 or 6 oz no problem after a feed, then I stopped expressing and when I started again, I got 3 to 4 oz. Is my supply going down?

 

[ThunderPearls]

If you were expressing on top of normal feeds then you were being stimulated much more and would produce more milk to meet the higher demand. Once you stopped expressing you were receiving less stimulation so would produce less milk as there was less demand. If you have only just startes to express again then I assume it will take you a few days at least for your body to catch up and meet the extra demand.

 

[toby1331]

I found it harder to get the same amount as time went on. Especially after about 6 months.

 

[seaweed eater]

I don't know how old your LO is, but if the 5-6 oz was in the first month or two and 3-4 is later, then yes your supply probably went down to match what LO is actually taking. Which is a good thing for both of you! More hindmilk and more comfortable flow for LO, and less risk of the problems associated with oversupply for you. 3-4 oz right after a feed is still a fantastic output.

 

[AnneD]

Thanks, everone. Completely forgot all thst, I was in such panic.

SE, baby is 8 months old.