I am breastfeeding and planning on going out of town...?

Question

I am thinking about taking a vaca for 3 days...If I don't pump will I dry out and or if I only pump alittle bit will it mess with her routine of feedings??? Any tips on what would be a good idea if I decide to go???

Answer 1

You said going on a vacation for 3 days...that is, someone is going to keep the baby for you...or they baby's going with you?   If you're leaving the baby with someone...you should pump your breast and store the milk in the freezer in zip lock bags..it will be fine..they can thaw it out at room temp or a little in the microwave .if you go and don't pump you will get engorged about the 2nd night..if your milks in good...so to relieve the pressure ...take a hot shower and your milk will leak out to give you some relief...if you pump a little bit that's better than none at all...if she's going you can stop a heat the milk in a microwave on the road...to help you keep her as close to her feedings as possible...traveling usually makes them sleep a little bit more...

breast milk can be stored in the freezer for later use...  and just a little FYI..breast milk is good to use for pink eye...just use a dropper and put a couple of drops in the eye...it clears it up really quick...

Hope this helps you a little bit...HH

Answer 2

You could definitely, run the risk of engorgement, plugged ducts or worse mastitis if you don't pump.  You need to pump.  If you only pump a little your milk supply will go down and your baby will need to be supplemented with formula.  I suggest that you bring her, if you can't then pump on a schedule like she would feed.  Every 2-3 or 4 hours probably.  even once in the night if that is what she does.  This is the only way that your supply will be maintained.  I don't know how many ounces you should try and pump, but I would say 3-6 ounces at every pump.  good luck.