Talk of pumping and disappointing results with colostrum...questions and
thoughts... I often help new NICU Moms in the hospital. I always find that
first pumping session problematic. I know in advance that some Moms will
get nothing out. I forewarn them, tell them pumps are not babies, we are
not doing this to get milk but to stimulate your breasts, we will get milk
in two or 3 days (of course we nearly always get it before then) etc etc.
But almost inevitably they are disappointed with the first results. Of
course if through, ahem, unusual slip ups in postpartum noone helps these
moms until day 4, they often get tons of milk on their first attempt and
are delighted. Taking into account the importance of early stimulation and
of colostrum for the baby - does anyone have an ideal time for that first
pumping? Hours after birth? Day 2? Suggestions on easing Mom through the
first discouraging attempt when she is already mightily unhappy about
having a NICU baby?
Anne Merewood