Breastfeeding/Lactation Consultant

Rae, it is really doubtful that you have low milk supply...........more

http://boards2.parentsplace.com/messages/get/ppbreastfeeding383/3/11/1.html

It is normal to see an decline in pumped amounts after about 3 weeks to 3 months b/c of hormonal changes. The amounts you are pumping are actually higher than expected for most moms. Here's why pumped amounts decline and why some moms falsely *perceive* low milk supply around that time. It's b/c in the early weeks and months the milk supply is stimulated by two different mechanisms. The first is related to hormones from the brain that are signaled by the birth of the placenta. Those hormones start milk production in a non-specific amount...usually more than the baby needs which is why moms can generally pump large amounts in the earlier weeks and months. The other control is in the breast and more closely related to the amount of milk being taken from the breast. Sometime between about 3 weeks and 3 months the second, breast related control takes over and the milk supply becomes more finely tuned to the baby's needs so the breast begins to make exactly what is taken out no more, no less.

Also, many babies will happily take a bottle right after they have gotten adequate amounts from the breast and it gives a very false (but understandable) impression to the parents that mom has low supply. Here's two stories that explain that:

http://boards.parentsplace.com/messages/get/ppbreastfeeding102/14.html

http://boards.parentsplace.com/messages/get/ppbreastfeeding100/47/1.html

I think it's possible you actually have oversupply and the baby has a fore milk hind milk imbalance that is causing the behavior that makes you think there is low supply. Here's more (be sure to read the link inside too on oversupply)

http://boards2.parentsplace.com/messages/get/ppbreastfeeding462/43/2.html

Probably the best thing for you to do to resolve all your concerns is to see a lactation consultant to evaluate the effectiveness of your breastfeeding and see if you have oversupply or what exactly is going on. Here's how to find one:

http://boards2.parentsplace.com/messages/get/ppbreastfeeding176/11/1/1.html

Again, I really doubt you have low supply especially based on the extremely high weight gain your baby had by 2 weeks and your perception that the baby is getting bigger. Babies who are growing well are getting enough breast milk.

I hope this helps, please get back as needed with more questions and to let me know how you are doing.

Warmly Kathy