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I am expecting my third child and had difficulty breastfeeding my first two. I am really determined to pump as long as possible with this one, but I know I will have to go back to work after a few weeks. Please give any advice about building up milk supply, storing milk, etc. I really don't think I'll be able to pump every two hours at work ( I teach kindergarten) but maybe two or three times a day.

I just commented on a similar post - but what I did before I went back to work was to pump a couple hours after I put my son to bed for the night. Or if I happened to get up in the night (to pee, or sleeplessness) I would pump a bottle or two out. Also, if I fed him, and he was finished, about an 30minutes to 1 hour later I would pump the remainder out of my breasts. Sometimes that only filled 1/2 a container, but I'd save it until the evening (in the fridge) to store up anymore I pumped, and at the end of the day I froze it. I believe you can contain milk for 24 hours in the fridge before freezing. But don't re-freeze after defrosting once. At work I pump once a day (but that's the only missed feeding I do)... it's more difficult for you as a teacher, but at least try to do it when you can. As long as you breastfeed exclusively on the weekends, and when you're home with him at night, you should probably retain your milk! Good luck!

I highly recommend finding a lactation consultant to help you. I never would have been so successful if I didn't have mine. I did a combination of visits where she helped with breastfeeding and calls where she answered my questions. If your pediatrician doesn't have a LC, then contact your local La Leche League. It's essential that you get a good latch and establish a good supply of milk up front. Once that happens, your body is amazingly adaptable. It will learn to produce the milk when you need it. So you should be able to control your pumping schedule. I've heard that it really helps with pumping if you have photos of your baby (faster pumping and help with production). Good luck!