In a message dated 97-08-25 17:19:57 EDT, you write:

<< Just wanted to quote Paula Meier from her new pamphlet "Professional Guide
to
 Breastfeeding Premature Infants" Frequent pumping and breast emptying during
 the 1st week postbirth stimulate prolactin secretion, which is critical to
 the establishment of an optimal milk yield."  Frequency is 8-12 times.
 "This
 optimal breast stimulation usually results in an excellent milk supply (eg,
 800ml to 1000ml daily) within a week or 10 days.  After this time, the
mother
 may be able to pump slightly less frequently (eg, eight times daily) if
 necessary.  One thing I have seen over the years and also heard from others,
 is that mothers pumping over a period of time tend to gradually have a
 decrease in milk.  What I have observed is usuallly it is due to the mother
 decreasing the number of pumpings, thinking and or being told "do not worry,
 you can increase the # of pumpings later and your milk will increase".   I
am
 mentioning Paula because at Rush Hospital, where she is affiliated,  they do
 encourage the frequent pumpings and they do not have such a problem with a
 low milk supply with the mothers with premies. >>