Pulling Away While Breastfeeding

by Amy
(Michigan)

Visitor Question:I just went back to work after having 12 weeks off. I have had no problems with breastfeeding, (except an over abundance of milk).

So my problem is that after working two twelve hour shifts. I noticed after my baby is at breast for a few minutes, she starts to pull away.

Then she latches right back on and pulls away again. This get quite painful after a few times.

A friend told me she was getting too much milk at one time. Any input would be great!

Thanks,
Amy

Breastfeeding Magazine Response: It could be a number of different reasons.

1. Fast letdown: Some little ones will pull off mommy's breast right after let-down if mom has a forceful let-down...it is just too much too fast!

2. Slow let down: Your daughter may be impatient for a faster milk flow. (Remember that if she is getting a bottle while you are at work, she is now accustomed to milk flowing the instant she sucks on a bottle. Changing to a slower flow bottle may help.)

3. She might want a faster milk flow: She may be impatient and figured out that by pulling off the breast and kneading the breast...she can actually cause you to have an additional let-down, and a faster milk flow.

Be patient. You BOTH have to adjust to your new schedule.

Good luck!