This might be an unpopular opinion from all the other 500 blogs you have read about pumping. But I'm a firm believer in doing what works for you and your family. I also believe that your mental health is important in your breastfeeding or breast pumping journey.
Asher just hit 5 months old. I have exclusively pumped from the start because I didn't make enough milk with my first child and I needed peace of mind that he was getting enough milk. I have followed this schedule since he was about 3.5 months old and it has worked out well for us. I pump on average 34 ounces a day which feeds him and I have been able to freeze some.
My first pump of the day is normally around 5am unless he wakes up earlier. I always pump with my Spectra pump first thing in the morning, as I normally pump about 12 ounces and my boobs are so engorged that I can't get my Elvie pump to latch good. Second pump of the day is at 8am, third is at noon, forth is at 5pm, (which I will use my spectra or Elvie pump) and ending my last pump of the day at 10pm which I always end with using my Spectra pump as it empties me this best right before bed.
If I could give any new mom advice on your breastfeeding or pumping journey it would be it doesn't have to be an all or nothing. What breast milk your baby gets it amazing and if you have to supplement with formula that is fine. I did that with my first and she is thriving.
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