Breastfeeding and pumping questions

Ok, so here goes my first official question(s) for you BTDT parenting ladies:

When do you start pumping?

How do you schedule it? When do you pump and bottlefeed vs. breastfeed directly... that is, if you are home all the time with your baby? I'm not sure what I'm supposed to be doing here, but I want to get the hang of pumping! She will be 3 weeks tomorrow... is it too soon to start pumping?

I feel like its so much easier to breastfeed directly, am I wrong?!?!

Thanks in advance!!!

Re: Breastfeeding and pumping questions

I wanted to increase my milk supply so I pumped one side & fed from the other, then switched for the next feeding.

It's definitely easier to breastfeed directly. No pumping, no bottles to clean up. Basically you have the food always on tap & the exact temperature.

Message edited 5/3/2007 10:17:02 PM.

Re: Breastfeeding and pumping questions

I 100% agree that it's easier to breastfeed directly. If you're having problems with your supply and need the additional stimulation, then it makes sense to pump. Also, if you're going to be away from your DC, then of course you would pump and have the caregiver give the expressed milk. I see no reason to pump for the heck of it though. Nursing is simply perfect and natural... there's no need to make it complicated with machinery. lol

Re: Breastfeeding and pumping questions

i didnt pump all too much, being a SAHM, i didnt see a need for it....but, i like to go out to dinner with DH and get out here and there, and so i always made sure there was bags of frozen milk in the fridge (its good for up to 6 months)....plus, God forbid anything happened and i got sick or something and coudnt breasfeed, at least i had about 10 bags of milk (bt 2-4 oz each) to go on....

Re: Breastfeeding and pumping questions

You are right, it is so much easier to breastfeed directly, especially if you are with your baby all the time. I only pumped a little in the beginning since I wanted to make sure I had enough milk, 13 months later I guess I have plenty as I still nurse her on cue. Had I known this DH wouldn't have spent nearly $300 on a pump that is barely and used packed away...