I have been exclusively pumping for my LO for almost 10 months. Since the new year started, I've noticed that my supply has steadily decreased. It's now to the point to where I don't produce enough that would get her through the day. I have a stash that I use but even with the introduction of solids, I'm going through the stash much faster than I was before so I started to supplement with formula a little to slow it down. Even through massaging, replacing my pump parts, and fixing the settings, I haven't seen much of a difference in my supply. My goal is to pump for at least a year and I would like to get my supply to how it was in the Fall when I returned from Maternity leave but I know the best solution is to pump more often but with my work schedule and overall energy level, I don't think I have the capacity to do that again. I have been thinking talking to an LC about it but I fear that there may not be many options for me. I don't want to stop pumping but I also feel really sad about my supply dropping and having to supplement. It's hard for me to talk to my family about it. If you were in this situation, what would you do? I really need perspective.
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Part of the supply issue could be anxiety about not producing enough. This happened to me and it's a catch 22. One thing that really helped me was giving myself permission to feed my baby however I could and trying not to stress about pumping all the time or supplementing with formula. It actually helped increase my supply!
I'm in awe that you could exclusively pump for 10 months! Please don't look at it as not being good enough to make it to 1 year, but celebrate that you were able to feed your baby that way! Your body is incredible and you should love yourself unconditionally!
I'm sorry that you are sad and struggling with supply. I hope you are able to meet your goal but I also hope you give yourself grace.

There is a tea that I used called mother’s milk. If you can handle the black licorice flavor