Pumping every 2 hours?!

[Jenkiss13]

Is this really necessary?  I am pumping going on my 4th week.  I was pumping every 2 hours during the day getting about 7 pumps in and pumping for 20 minutes.  I was just going off of what I read online and was told by LC's.  I am dealing with mastitis now, my supply dipped which is apparently normal, but my doc told me I need to pump EVERY 2 hours (including at night) and until I'm empty.  So my questions are

1.I can't pump every 2 hrs during the day since hubby went back to work.  Sometimes it ends up being every 3 or 4.  Will that still get my supply up?  

2.I just can't do every 2 hrs at night.  I get 2 maybe 3 pumps if I'm really dedicated, but the sleep is just so much more tempting.

3. Pumping until I'm empty usually takes 45+ minutes (and I'm massaging while pumping)  Is that normal? 

Any tips/advice would be grately appreciated!!

[CandiceDanielle]

It's very important to pump at least 10-12 times in the first weeks to establish and maintain a supply.

I always stopped pumping when the drops of milk were small and slow.

[jlangdon81]

I would do at least 30 minutes at a time. Having to pump every two hours is absolutely key to building a good supply. I would recommend every 3 overnight. I know it is tough but we are all here for you!

[MaiasMommy619]

It is actually very crucial you pump every 2 hrs ESP since you haven't been pumping for that long of a time. If you go every 3-4 hrs your supply will drop quite a bit. Your still trying to establish your supply and you should try to Pump every 2 hrs and try to mimick a baby's sucking patterns and eating habits. This is how your body knows to maintain and keep making milk for the baby.