A question about pumping and ppaf

KristieClark · #1 (**permalink**) 11-12-2006, 12:58 PM

So I know that the less frequent you nurse, the more likely af will return sooner. But what about pumping? I usually pump anywhere from 1-4 times a day, to build up a storage, to take with me when we are out, or for DH to give DD. But, does that "count" as not nursing? TIA!

5 Flowers · #2 (**permalink**) 11-12-2006, 02:47 PM

Pumping mom's in general get AF back sooner, but the *rule of thumb* is at least every 4 hours during the day and 6 at night, to keep af away(very general rule of course) However, pumping is not as effective as nursing so af may return sooner.

BTW

KristieClark · #3 (**permalink**) 11-13-2006, 07:05 AM

Thanks Shannon. I guess I should've clarified that the pumping is in addition to nursing. I did some adding up and the only time I don't empty out (whether it be by nursing or pumping) every 2-4 hours is at night when she goes from 7-5. I pump right before I go to bed, so it's usually 11-5. I want af to return, but then I don't want her to return, KWIM?

5 Flowers · #4 (**permalink**) 11-13-2006, 09:07 AM

Yep, I understand! You might drop the late pumping if you are encouraging af to return, so that there is more than 6 hours in between feedings(or pumpings). I should have known that too, LOL Pumping does count as nursing, just not as much as far as fertility returning(does that make sense?) There was a study in one of the parenting magazines that said that pumping moms got af back sooner, even if they pumped ex and didn't supplement. I will see if I can find which one it was in...

babidius · #5 (**permalink**) 11-16-2006, 03:34 PM

I pump exclusively, for almost 8 months now, and no signs of AF!! There are some Moms on my board who only BF and have AF! I can go 9 or 10 hours at night between pumpings, have for awhile now, no AF!! I wish I had AF back but I don't!

5 Flowers · #6 (**permalink**) 11-17-2006, 07:19 AM

Thank you Jen! Just goes to show how different our bodies can be!