O, Leftie, Why Hast Thou Forsaken Me?

You'll recall (or you'll go back and read the archives) that Leftie has been my big producer until just recently, when I had to start doing compressions. Well, things have been steadily going downhill. Leftie still outproduces Rightie, but just barely and only because I pump for 45 minutes + every session. Rightie's really done in about 20, but Leftie doesn't even start making an honest effort until we're past the 30 minute mark (ah, what I would give to be a quick emptier). I don't think it's a clogged duct because a) I can't feel it and b) compressions work immediately, which has not been my experience in the past with clogs.

[For those of you who are new at this, a clogged duct feels like a lump in your breast. There are lots of ways to get rid of the clog. My favorite is to take some Vicks VapoRub (I read about this on a message board and yes, it does work, though not as quickly for me as for some others. YMMV.[edit: DO NOT GET VICKS ON YOUR NIPPLES! Trust me on this one, ladies.]) and just use one or two fingers to continuously rub the lump. This usually takes two or three pumps to be fully effective. There's also something with a comb and a hot shower -- as with many things EP, see kellymom for more details.]

So anyhow, I feel like Leftie is deserting me. This makes me sad. Leftie and I had such a great relationship. I could always count on her. She was like that friend you have that never has anything more important to do than come over and dish with you. Leftie, I implore you, don't leave me! I need you! The cookie needs you! You're our rock, our tower of power, our Lance Armstrong.

Today's Tip: It's all about the water. Yes, water intake is essential to happy and productive breasts. However, be careful not to overdrink, as this can lower supply just as quickly as not drinking enough. A good rule is 12 8oz. glasses/day. I happened across this number in one of my breastfeeding books and cut down to this amount right away. I saw a big (about 20%) increase almost immediately. Do be careful in the heat -- you'll probably need more then -- but don't go overboard.