Breastfeeding Help and Support

[moderngal]

Our ped said that he'd like us to start DS on cereal sometime before 6 months. I questioned him on this, and his answer was so DS can learn to "accept" a spoon and swallow "food" before introducing "real" solids. Does this make sense? I don't know if that's really a benefit or not, but it was his explanation for recommending cereal before 6 months.
I work with a speech pathologist in early intervention and she said the same thing- that cereals were easiest to swallow and therefore needed first so that the baby learned to coordinate the muscles needed for a safe and productive swallow. This therapist is a breastfeeding mom herself and while she did give cereals first for the swallowing benefits, she did not do it until after 6 months.
Of course, I didn't give cereals first and my son can swallow just fine. ;)


re poop-- my ped said a BF baby can go up to 7 days without pooping and that is "normal."

[ihearttx]

What is the best way to heat breastmilk? I am thinking that I will have to just run it under hot water...but I am afraid that I either wont get it hot enough or will get it too hot. Is it better to heat it while it is in the Gerber storage bag or in the Avent bottle when running it under hot water? I think we are going to attempt a bottle tomorrow just to be sure DS can do it since I have an appointment on Monday and my mom is babysitting. I am very very nervous!!


I think it's easier to heat them in the bottle. Make sure the milk is warm because my DD wouldn't take the bottle for the first few times we tried and we realized that the milk wasn't warm enough for her. I just put the milk in the bottle and run it under hot water..although I use playtex nurser bottles, so I'm really heating the milk through the drop in liners, not an actual bottle.

[Dally]

ihearttx--Yes, I have had plugged ducts turn pink. And sometimes the pink lasted longer than the pain. I think it's a great sign that your pain is lessening. And a loose bra is a good idea. I think some folks recommend not sleeping with a bra, but you have to decide if that is right for you at this point. :)

Kellymom has some more helpful tips:
http://www.kellymom.com/bf/concerns/mom/mastitis.html

Hang in there. I remember how worried I was about mastitis the first time I had a plugged duct, but I've had several now and no sign of mastitis. :) I think it really helps if you are aggressive about getting rid of your plugged duct. Good luck!

[Marisa]

Lindsey - I always found it easier to heat the milk in the bottle, standing the bottle in a mug of hot water until the milk is warm. Swirl the milk (don't shake) to distribute it so the temp is even -- but it shouldn't get too warm that way.

If you freeze the milk in the bags, you can do the same thing to thaw them evenly.

[LILRTL]

Marisa Just a side question to your response to Lindsey - why not shake? I usually swirl, sometimes shake - am I doing something wrong? TIA!

[ellybelle]

Thanks guys!
dziner Congrats on #2!! No advice, but hang in there. Do you have somewhere that has Gymboree, where you can nurse and hang out with other moms while dd plays?
maggie Good to "hear" from you! Can you believe our girls are 2 already?? And you with 2 under 2! I've finally mustered the courage to ttc again.

You go, grannies! My SIL and I are both nursing, so naturally the topic came up at Thanksgiving. Her dad was telling a story about a student who had brought her baby and breastfed while meeting with him during office hours. He was a bit aghast and said something to the effect of "shouldn't she have gone out into the hall or something?" Immediately my 76 y.o. mom and 80 y.o. aunt responded "I don't think so," and "why is a natural function made into such a big deal?" SIL and I concurred, and both of our husbands stayed well out of it.

[pgbg]

Marisa and newyorkgirl Thanks for your input about the "overfeeding" with bottles. I did another experiment last night, because we were out and got home just after the babysitter had given him a 6 oz bottle...he did take to the breast and ate, but then spit up afterwards (and DS isn't too much of a spitter). So that made me think he was just nursing b/c he missed me, and not b/c he was hungry!!
Thanks again!

[Sarah]

ellybelle-
CONGRATULATIONS!!!! That is amazing!

Dziner-
Hi, I was wondering if Sarah or any other moms of two (or more!) who BF could help me.

I BF DD for a year. I now have a newborn son and am BFing him as well. I am certainly glad I chose to nurse DD for as long as I did, but as we all know, BFing in the beginning STINKS. Several of my friends with two have assured me that having two little ones gets easier, but I have realized that all of them FF. I am reliving that awful feeling of being trapped like I did the first time around, only this time I have a demanding toddler on my back. Once again, each day seems endless and turning a corner feels like a lifetime away, and I am feeling pretty depressed. I guess what I am asking is for your experience the second time around...how did you get through the first tough few months where baby is nursing 12x a day or more and you already have a child to deal with?? Any words of wisdom are most appreciated.

Hugs. what is the issue, specifically? you say it's bad right now- is it just that it's time consuming, or is there a problem? My DD was a lot older than your when her sister was born (she was three and three weeks) and mroe able to deal with "hold on a minute." Having them so close must be so hard (albeit rewarding!), hugs. I have tried setting up little special activities for DD to play with while I nurse DD2, which she can only play with at nursing time- sticker books, playdoh, certain new toys, dolls, whatever. Pt them in a box near your nursing area (glider or whatever) and say she can play with them at nursing time. Or read her books while you nurse- teach her to turn the page when you say so. Let her help you with special Big Sister tasks- getting diapers, wiping spit up, bringing mommy a bottle of water, etc.

I know it seems bleak right now, but especially with a germ-laden toddler in the house, you are doing your son a great service by continuing to nurse. You'll be surprised how easily your baby will get sick with a sibling in the house. Keep on going, one day at a time. I remember when your DD was born, and you felt the same way- I bet it's all just a faint memory now, right. Keep up the good work!

[newyorkgirl]

Lora, I think "not shake" because it produces bubbles which baby can take in and produce gas/burps. But Marisa, please correct me if I'm wrong.

Sometimes, I shake while heating BM because the fat has separated and is sitting at the top and stuck to the edges of the bottle and shaking is the only way to dislodge it. (I am nutty about getting DS all the BM fat I can - sometimes, if I'm very full when I pump, I'll discard the first ounce or so of foremilk.) But I only shake very gently and make sure there are not a lot of bubbles when I start feeding.

[LILRTL]

Sometimes, I shake while heating BM because the fat has separated and is sitting at the top and stuck to the edges of the bottle and shaking is the only way to dislodge it. (I am nutty about getting DS all the BM fat I can - sometimes, if I'm very full when I pump, I'll discard the first ounce or so of foremilk.) But I only shake very gently and make sure there are not a lot of bubbles when I start feeding.

That's why I shake - basically why I was asking! If the bubbles are the reason, I completely understand. Zack is one. gassy. baby. ;)

[Lindzee82]

ihearttx and Marisa - Thanks!

[Sarah]

just dropping this off- it's my favorite Extended BFing page. Someone asked a couple pages back about early preparation for criticism from family. here's some absolutely amazing info, if your family cares about stats.

http://www.kellymom.com/bf/bfextended/ebf-benefits.html
http://www.kellymom.com/nutrition/milk/bmilk-composition.html
a link to a pdf of the fact sheet-http://www.kellymom.com/store/freehandouts/extended_bf_factsheet.pdf

[NYN]

i read somewhere (i think it was in my new beginnings magazine so pretty legit) that you don't shake BM b/c it somehow destroys the properties though i am fuzzy on the details. i remember reading something in the article about how you want to be "gentle w/ BM" and i felt horrible b/c though i rarely ever bottle feed, i bottle fed the entire first 10 days of DD's life and i ALWAYS shook, and shook hard, b/c of what you guys are saying (to get the fat to mix in).

question about heating bottles: why do you guys do this? i never heat bottles. DD drinks it straight from the fridge. i didn't think this was a big deal but now i feel horrible.

[Marisa]

Yep, the no shaking is not only to prevent air bubbles, but also to prevent damage to the live cells in breastmilk. It's pretty complex stuff! :)

Teba -- if your DS has no problem with bottles from the fridge, then no worries -- I always warmed them, but it was my intention to try to 'trick' DS into taking them by making them as much like 'from the tap' as possible. :)


... though -- if the milk is warm, I do find it easier to get the fat to mix back in with minimal shaking. ;)

[dziner]

Thanks, Elly, congrats to you too! So far we've done little to nothing, but I am hoping to do more playdates and classes, things like that. It's so hard to get the two kids ready to leave the house, it's unbelievable. Congrats to you on the two year mark!!!

Sarah, thanks for your reply. I wouldn't say there are any real problems, per se, I am just being selfish, I suppose. I find the near-hourly demands for nursing overwhelming and am generally not thrilled with newborns. I feel like we are going to be tethered to the house forEVER, and that is not a good feeling to have. Just wanted to know if other moms had any special encouragement to keep me going...like, around x weeks the feedings space out a bit, or they stop pooping every thirty seconds so you can catch your breath and actually finish reading your toddler a story, etc. Maybe that's ridiculous...

[Sarah]

Yep, the no shaking is not only to prevent air bubbles, but also to prevent damage to the live cells in breastmilk. It's pretty complex stuff!

So no jumping up and down, I take it? :P j/k
Sarah, thanks for your reply. I wouldn't say there are any real problems, per se, I am just being selfish, I suppose. I find the near-hourly demands for nursing overwhelming and am generally not thrilled with newborns. I feel like we are going to be tethered to the house forEVER, and that is not a good feeling to have. Just wanted to know if other moms had any special encouragement to keep me going...like, around x weeks the feedings space out a bit, or they stop pooping every thirty seconds so you can catch your breath and actually finish reading your toddler a story, etc. Maybe that's ridiculous...

No, you're not selfish, it's incredibly hard, especially with nursing, adjustment to parenting two kids, sleep deprivation, hormones, etc. I am no old hand at all, my DD is only 4 months old, but I do think things always get easier at 6 weeks, and continue to get better after that. My DD has definitely spaced out feedings over the last month or so- she will go 4 hours sometimes unless I try to feed her (which I do, I have supply concerns). And they become much more efficient, so nursing won't take you an hour anymore. I probably shouldn't make generalizations based on my DD, but she can nurse in ten minutes now. Don't beat yourself up- your DD will be fine if she watches a little more TV or plays independently a bit more- it really is somewhat temporary (somewhat because there are two now, and each is going to get only part of your attention).

Have you considered getting a sling so you can nurse hands free? I can even do it in my bjorn in a pinch. Just relax the straps a lot, and smoosh your bb over the baby's mouth.

[dziner]

Sarah, 6 weeks sounds a lot better than three months as a turning point!! I have a KK adjustable fleece sling and tried putting DS in it once but it felt weird to both of us. I just followed the instructions but he seemed buried in there. Maybe I should ask Nancy about that; teaching him to nurse in there would be a g-dsend. Right now I am still trying to get him to open up wider and to stop popping off; I spend a good five-ten minutes trying to get him latched well each time.

[mollyeilis]

I think slings feel weird to many people the first few times out. Just keep working at it!

I personally was only ever able to nurse E with him in our sling-sling ONCE, and I had to be topless to do it. :)

However, I nursed him once on a walk with him facing me in our MobyWrap (he was over a year old, but we never have gotten into wearing him facing out, and he's content to look behind and to the sides so yay!).

I think having a mei tai would have been nice for nursing him as an infant. You could put him in facing you, upright, legs in a froggy position, and get it nice and snug, and I bet you guys could learn to nurse like that. :)

[moderngal]

does anyone know if it is safe to take Airborne while nursing? I feel a cold coming on and would like to try it. It's mostly herbal extracts. TIA. :)

[Marisa]

mg -- I believe that I looked this up last winter and it's fine. :)

(Zicam -- the homeopathic stuff -- is ok too. :))

[moderngal]

awesome, Marisa- thanks!! :)

[NYN]

i hate the fact that i can't nurse in a sling but i'll just never be able to do it. i honestly don't know how anyone over a c-cup could make it work. at this point my DD is big enough that i can position her the way that i want in the sling but wouldn't you know it, all that breast milk has made her too tall and too big to be in line w/ my chest! i'm so jealous of the LLL moms in my group who can nurse in a ring sling. i can't even multitask while nursing b/c i am too busy holding my humungo boob up.

[LexyLou]

I can eat sushi, right? DH is taking me on a date tonight. :D

[shirsty]

NewYorkNovia I too am blessed (?) with large boobs and have to always hold them too during nursing, I was wondering if it would get any easier as DS gets old (almost 6 weeks old now). Sounds like it won't, and I'll always be holding this boob for him?? :o

[kindermom]

I found that my DD is getting better about latching on to my size D-DD (depending on how "full" I am :rolleyes: ) bbs now that she has hit the 3 month mark and is using her hands to manipulate things more.

FWIW, I am able to nurse my DD in the sling quite well if I put her with her head higher up and her legs scrunched up in the bottom. It kind of smooshes her face against me, but it works.

[kindermom]

This is a vent of sorts...
My DD (15 weeks) does not seem satisified with my milk supply. I know that pumping is no indication of how much you are producing, but it seems that my supply is dropping. Most sessions I only pump about 1-2 ounces per side. My DD is currently eating at least 4 ounces a sitting when she takes a bottle during the day. There are times she is just miserable with breast feeding and insists on getting a bottle (yes, I know other PPs have the opposite problem)! For example, at night she prefers a bottle prior to going to bed. If she gets her 4 ounce bottle, she falls right to sleep and sleeps through the night. If she is breast feed, she is really fussy falling asleep and will usually wake once to eat.

Has anyone else experienced this? And will my DD grow out of it? It is frustrating because I am not able to keep up my milk production to meet her needs, bottle-wise, and she does not seem satisfied with the breast.

[newyorkgirl]

Alexis, yes, you can eat sushi! :)

[mollyeilis]

AYI, Airborne has artificial sweeteners in it. That makes it unacceptable to me at any time, but others feel differently. Not everyone knows it's sweetened with fake stuff, so now you know. :)

[Sebski]

I'm so proud to post here today! Joey had an appt at the doc's this afternoon and was weighed... he's up to 9lbs 1oz from 6lbs 13oz at birth only 3w ago!!! The doctor was impressed and told me to keep on doing whatever we're doing. :) I'm so happy because the first 2w of feeding were sooo tough on me and I can't tell you how many times I wanted to quit. W/out my DH and this thread, I would have more than likely thrown in the towel. So - thank you ladies - I couldn't have gotten this far w/out you! I'm just so proud of my breasts - GO BOOBS!!!!!!!!!!

[newyorkgirl]

Way to go, Sebski! :D

[twainny]

Thrush- I have been reading lot of the posts in the past month abour thrush. I too, have it. I think 1/2 the people here do!!! Man, it totally sucks. Anyways, thanks for all the ideas you posted. I went out and got the stuff for the APNO :) I am going to make it tonight (I hope!) But, what do you keep it in? I can't think of anything except a tupperware container.

Also, for those who seem to get thrush again and again... I gor this in an e-mail from a friend:

Oh, and my lac consultant told me that in silicon or the like, yeast is
IMPOSSIBLE to kill, so I had to get rid of all binkies and nipples. Yeast
is a spore so it can survive boiling, freezing, etc. In fact, she had a
story where this woman had recurrent yeast infections, gave up nursing
because of it, 2 years later had another kid, pulled out the old nipples for
bottles...AND BINGO! Reinfected.

Just and FYI... I will be buying new stuff. But I don't know when to introduce it. Has anyone else heardt his? (sorry if it has been stated, I didn't see it, but I have only read the last 3 weeks worth of posts!)

[terrys wifey]

Hello Ladies,
I am due on the 29th and plan to breastfeed my question is for those who pump. When do you know no more milk is coimg out nad does it hurt when the milk supply is depleted and the pump is still going?
TIA

[LILRTL]

Kimberly I can tell there's no more milk coming out because I watch it. :o Really, though. You can see. Speaking for myself, it does not hurt unless the speed is too high. ;) HTH!

[Dally]

Kimberly, sometimes pumping hurts me, but not necessarily because the milk stopped flowing. Sometimes my BBs just want a break, I think, and sometimes I have the speed up kind of high (to try to get a let down). If the speed is low, it really doesn't hurt.

Sebski--Congrats! That is wonderful. :)

[Candy]

Congrats Sebski! :)

I checked kellymom, but couldn't find the answer. I have an upper resp. infection. Is it ok to take Guaifenesin?

TIA!

Candy

[Sarah]

I think having a mei tai would have been nice for nursing him as an infant. You could put him in facing you, upright, legs in a froggy position, and get it nice and snug, and I bet you guys could learn to nurse like that.

This is the only way I can nurse in a sling, FWIW. I have large breasts, and I cannpt nurse in any other sling, any other way.

As for holding the boob, I had to hold it until dd was about nine months old and could hold it herself. :D

[newyorkgirl]

twainny - the APNO, I just keep it in a small tupperware. :)

[NYN]

congrats sebski.

holding the boob: (omg, sounds so funny). i can technically nurse w/out holding it if i lay DD on my lap since she is bigger now but it exposes too much skin IMO and since we are always out and about (oh yes, i am a NIP champion, size G bb's and all :D) it is easier on both of us (they are heavy!), not to mention more discreet. my LC used to have me roll a cloth diaper under it which works fine and all but i don't need to waste time doing that when she is done nursing in five minutes. i am just always so super impressed when i see people walking and nursing at the same time - would be so impossible for us.

[Daniel's Kitty]

My DS lives in the sling while we are out until I need a break and he is the champ of eating in there. If I am in the wrong place he grabs on and pulls it to where he he wants it :eek: OUCH. I love feeding him in the sling. And I really don't miss holding myself for him although he hasn't needed that for a while. Although i will lose a nipple if I move funny since he was the inventor of the vacuum cleaner and will not let go.

Oh yea, I am an E right now.

[LeslieR]

twainny, I had not heard that about the rubber and silicon, but it makes sense! I actually ditched my Lily Padz because I figured they were just helping to breed the yeasties. I am reluctant to say that we have finally beaten it, but I think we have. Although as far as I know, Luke never had it-just me. Once I finished my 14 day course of Diflucan, I could tell that I still had it although slight. As a precaution, I put Nystatin on twice a day even now. The past couple weeks have been the longest I've gone nursing without pain since Luke was born! My biggest problem is that I still leak. He has started to sleep longer stretchest at night and this is when I leak the most. I just make it a practice to change my breast pads every time I get up to go to the bathroom as I usually wake up more times a night than he does when he sleeps for long stretches like that. There was a point there where I didn't think we would make it to 6mos if I couldn't nip this thing in the bud. Now I think we will make it to 12mos easily.:D

[Hawaii2SJ]

Leslie I keep thinking I *might have a nipple/yeast infection. DS had his 3week check and the pedi said he does not have thrush, but I keep putting off calling my OB. What were your signs of thrush?? My nipples burn and my breast tingle/burn AFTER I nurse DS and they are red, not to mention sometimes it's sensitive when my bra touchs them. During our feeding session I have no pain and our latch is fine, he pops off every now and then and pulls sometimes but I keep thinking it's yeast. Am I being paranoid?? I'm a procratinator and just haven't found time to call the OB.

Any pointers or experiences from you other mommies? I do plan on getting help from the OB on monday.

[Marisa]

Candy -- Hale rates it as among the 'safer' options for BFing moms, though he does point out that it's not terribly effective.
(I'll say -- I've been taking it for three days now. Cough, cough.) ;)


Hawaii -- that does kind of sound like you have some classic symptoms. Your baby doesn't have to be showing signs in order for you to have it. Until Monday, try taking some acidophilus supplements, it's available wherever you buy vitamins. Take 1 or 2 capsules at every meal -- it's a natural way of restoring your body's 'good' bacteria, which will work to keep the yeasties at bay.

[albuquerque]

I'm sure it's been posted here a thousand times, but if you don't mind, would someone please post the symptoms of yeast/thrush for both mom and baby? My nipples were really bothering me the other day, but I think it was because of the fabric of the breast pads I was using. They do tingle at times, though, and not before/during feedings. And DD's little tongue is always white. She does a lot of pulling off, back on, twisting her head around--I'm lucky I guess that this doesn't hurt me--I think it's because of stomach/poop/gas pain, but maybe it's yeast?

[newyorkgirl]

albuquerque, you can find a lot of thrush resources at www.kellymom.com, but basically thrush manifests itself in some or all of the following symptoms-

in mom: itchiness in breasts, particularly areolae and nipples, sharp pains in bbs while nursing starting at the nips and radiating out into the bb, pain remains even after nursing is completed, may also have vaginal yeast infection, sometimes can also get milk blisters (whitehead-like blisters on the nips) which can cause blockage and plugged ducts.

in baby: white stuff on tongue and sides of the mouth that looks cottage-cheese-like, won't scrape away if you try, is still present an hour after nursing, can also have a bright red diaper rash right around the anus. HOWEVER, it is possible for you to have thrush and your baby not show any very obvious symptoms. DS had no diaper rash and just a small white patch at the back of his tongue, but it was enough to cause me several weeks of pain.

other thrush sufferers, am I missing anything?

[LeslieR]

Really red and swollen nips! Mine were so bad that the skin was peeling. blech.

Hawaii, definitely call your OB. Make sure to get an appt. I went 'round and 'round the mulberry bush with mine starting off with the ped telling me that I couldn't have a YI since Luke didn't show any symptoms. He convinced me that I probably had a bacterial infection.:rolleyes: Had I just gone in to see my OB THEN, I probably could have avoided weeks and weeks of pain. When I finally went in to see my OB, she just kept making this ouchy looking face followed by "ooh!" Guess it was pretty bad. lol Having been through all of this now, I wouldn't hesitate to call my OB in the future. HTH!

[Sarah]

Candy -- Hale rates it as among the 'safer' options for BFing moms, though he does point out that it's not terribly effective.


Haha. I read this as candy being okay for nursing moms, and thought, gee I hope so!

[duke's flygirl]

I just got my BFP for Baby #2 on Monday, and I am still nursing DD once or twice a day now that I am back to work, and she is in daycare. I'm really excited, and I really would like to continue nursing Ryleigh as long as I can. We are super excited about Baby D #2!

My question is for all you mom's who nursed #1 while PG with #2...is it normal for my nipples to hurt when she first latches on?

I've also been hearing/reading others say that their Doc's wanted them done with nursing by 20 weeks, why would that be?

Thanks in Advance,

Joelle

[Marisa]

Joelle! Congrats!!!

It's normal to have some pain and/or discomfort, related to the pregnancy. Some women experience it, some don't.

Drs. may recommend weaning the older child at a certain point, but unless your pregnancy is considered high risk, there shouldn't be a medical reason to do so. Later in your pregnancy (much later), it's possible that nursing might encourage contractions, but again, it would only be a concern if your dr. is already concerned about some aspect of your pregnancy.

I cannot recommend this book enough -- Adventures in Tandem Nursing by Hilary Flower. It's a great, great resource on nursing while pregnant, and very current. If your library doesn't have it, maybe they'll inter-library loan it for ya. :)

[duke's flygirl]

Thanks Marisa! I have a LLL meeting on Wednesday and I will see if it is there, I remember hearing about it.

[nancy drew]

joelle congrats! i nursed my dd through my 2nd pregnancy. it hurt every time she latched on. im sad to say that was part of the reason i had to limit her nursing sessions. by the end of my pregnancy it actually hurt the whole time she nursed. now, thats just me and my experience, not everyone goes through that. im glad i was able to continue the whole 9 months. i think it was important for both my daughter and i.

i second the recommendation for "adventures in tandem nursing". i actually have an extra copy, if you want it you can pm me and ill send it out to you asap. :) another good book is "mothering your nursing toddler" (i think thats the title) which i also have and will gladly pass along.

oh and my dr had no issues whatsoever with me nursing while pg. she asked me at each appt if i was still nursing, and when i said i was she said "great! no reason to stop."

[catmom]

Ugh... one of DD's two front teeth just popped through, and I can feel it when she's nursing. It's not the most comfortable sensation. Will I get used to it? I am worried it's going to get worse as the tooth continutes to come through the rest of the way.

eta: I also had a question for the ladies who supplement... did you find that the supplemental bottles got smaller and smaller as your dc started eating more solids? I know the rec is that breastmilk/formula is the most imporant thing for the first 12 months, but our DD has never been a huge fan of the formula (she gets 2 bottles a day), and the more she eats her solids the less interest she has in the formula. She is still nursing fine, but I am a little concerned.

[solongtogo]

eta: I also had a question for the ladies who supplement... did you find that the supplemental bottles got smaller and smaller as your dc started eating more solids? I know the rec is that breastmilk/formula is the most imporant thing for the first 12 months, but our DD has never been a huge fan of the formula (she gets 2 bottles a day), and the more she eats her solids the less interest she has in the formula. She is still nursing fine, but I am a little concerned.

I think I've heard the more solids they take the less milk/formula they're going to drink...

[Sarah]

My question is for all you mom's who nursed #1 while PG with #2...is it normal for my nipples to hurt when she first latches on?

I've also been hearing/reading others say that their Doc's wanted them done with nursing by 20 weeks, why would that be?


1. Yep, my nips hurt a lot when I was first pg, but it stopped by around 11-12 weeks. It was never horrible, though.
2. NO reason to wean unless you have special, rare circumstances.

[maggieb]

My question is for all you mom's who nursed #1 while PG with #2...is it normal for my nipples to hurt when she first latches on?

I've also been hearing/reading others say that their Doc's wanted them done with nursing by 20 weeks, why would that be?


-My nipples didn't hurt at all, but I did get a creeped out feeling right around the 3 mos pg mark. Everytime Helena nursed I would just get this strange feeling that I had to get her off right then and there. I weaned her shortly after I was 3 mos pg.

My ob told me that she wanted me to wean Helena as soon as I got pg, but for no good reason. She said that it could cause pre-term labor, but I knew better. She was just covering her ass.

[nancy drew]

-My nipples didn't hurt at all, but I did get a creeped out feeling right around the 3 mos pg mark. Everytime Helena nursed I would just get this strange feeling that I had to get her off right then and there. I weaned her shortly after I was 3 mos pg.

i had that too. it didnt start til later in the pregnancy, though.

[duke's flygirl]

nancy drew: THANKS! You have a PM!

Sarah: THANKS to you too! It is really good to know that it can be done!

maggieb: Thank you for saying that you felt creeped out. I have been feeling that already, and it started just before I found out I was PG. I thought I was the anomolly, so it is really nice to hear that I am not alone!

Thanks again for all the help in here! I will definitely be using this resource the second time around!

[chloechloe]

Okay for future reference, if milk changes as the baby ages, how can a mom tandem nurse. I mean how does the new baby get colstrum while the toddler get the regular stuff? Or do you skip colstrum? Isn't that the most important stuff? I am just curious how that works. Still not sure about ttc number 2 but MAYBE in the late spring.

[Marisa]

chloe -- the milk does change back to colostrum at some point late in the pregnancy, and many times the older child will taper off or even wean completely because the milk will taste different.

However, if the child is willing, there's nothing wrong with them getting the colostrum too -- it's just a concentrated form of breastmilk, and it has that powerful punch of antibodies that any child could benefit from.

[Allegra]

We made it to one year! Marisol turned one yesterday - wooohooo! I initially thought I would wean at the first sign of teeth but after researching and thanks to folks like y'all, I decided it was best to go at least a year with her nursing. Now, I have no plans to wean at all (to my MIL's chagrin) and I'm trying to think how long "I" will be comfortable with a toddler nursing. http://www.militantbreastfeedingcult.com/forum/images/smiles/boobylady5.gif

Allegra

[Sarah]

CONGRATS, Allegra!

[mollyeilis]

OMG Allegra, that smilie.....hilarious!

[2002BeachBride]

Hi Ladies:)

I'm stopping in for two reasons -

#1) To thank you for this thread - my first two months of nursing were extremely difficult and painful but I knew I could come here for advice. Now nursing is wonderful and I don't plan to stop anytime soon! This is such a HUGE transition! Those of you having a difficult time - it DOES get better!:D :D MUCH MUCH BETTER:D

#2) I have made the mistake of not offering DD expressed BM from a bottle on a regular basis and now she is refusing the bottle - she has taken it on a few occasions in the past but not in a while...any advice on what to try? Anyone have this problem? I'm interested in having this option if I am away from DD longer than expected and so DH can know that he can feed her is she gets hungry and I'm out...

What should I try?
Thanks!

[Marisa]

Allegra! OMG, that smilie is outrageous!! :D Congrats on 1 year!

Beach -- how old is your baby? 2 months right now? You could try offering milk in a sippy -- many have a valve inside the spout that you could remove so that she could get the milk without sucking, but still prevent mess (only 3 little holes for the milk to come out of). Of course this would be something you'd have to help her with, not do on your own of course.

Even tiny babies can be fed by cup (like a soft medicine cup, they lap up the milk) or by syringe (many baby toiletry kits come with one). It's time-consuming but effective.

If she's old enough to sit up in the highchair, I've found that freezing the milk to a slushy consistency, and offering tiny bits with the spoon, can be a way to sneak an oz. or two in. It's nice for when they're teething, too -- cold for their gums.

It's so nice to hear that it's gotten better for you! I can remember feeling like it would never get better!

[2002BeachBride]

Marisa,

she'll be 16 weeks this tuesday and loves sitting up now:) Good point, maybe she just doesn't like the nipple...maybe we'll try a cup...

[moderngal]

We went away for the weekend to a wedding-- I had been on an exhausting pump schedule to make sure I had plenty of milk so I could do a bit of drinking at the wedding. It all went well and we even had some left over since DS is starting to eat a tiny bit of solids.
Anyway- this morning, we were in bed getting ready to nurse when DS looked at me said "boob" and lunged for it. It was hilarious. :)

[December27JJB]

Allegra, CONGRATS!!!

Moderngal- Hilarious! I can totally picture it. (Sometimes DD throws herself at the boob.)

[solongtogo]

Allegra-Congratulations!!

Moderngal-C is talking?? Wow!

[LILRTL]

I'm sure this is answered somewhere, but what can I take for a sore throat? Mine is killing me, and I'm afraid to take anything! TIA!

Oh - 4 months today! WOOHOO! :D

[happy1nuv]

Congrats Allegra!!

So I've got a random solids question...
I know that bm is supposed to supply all of his nutrition, and right now Nic still nurses plenty, and has a strong boob preference. BUT, he's starting to get really into his solids. He had 1/2 banana and 1 Tbsp of broccoli last night, and got totally upset when he finished it. We had to give him another broccoli cube which he scoffed down and he was looking for another (I nursed instead, cause I just thought that was too much broccoli, but had nothing else to offer him, solids wise)

What is the minimum amount of bm a day that he needs (yeah, I know ... I cant really measure it.. he still eats a bit over night so I'm not concerned that way, but if he does decide (fingers crossed that this WILL cross his mind) to actually sttn... he'd only really be nursing without solids first when he gets up and when he goes to bed -- maybe one other time... or should he be nursing first, then offered solids?

:)

[Traciann]

I have a question regarding when you got your period back during breastfeeding? DD is 7 months old. She BF 4 times a day and sttn 10+ hours. I am taking the mini-pill..and this last month (maybe TMI!!!) but I have had lots of discharge...but no period. Is this normal? I don't really want my period, but I am tired of the panicky feeling of am I pregnant!

Thanks!

[Marisa]

happy -- At his age, you'd probably want to offer to nurse first still, or at least make sure that there are several points throughout the day that he's getting a good serving of milk. :) I would say -- maybe around six? morning, snack, lunch, snack, dinner, overnight? Of course, there could be more than that, but I *personally* would be uncomfortable with less, until he's closer to a year. That's just based on my own experience with my DS, of course.

But as you said, it's hard to know exactly how much he's getting since you're nursing. If he were bottlefed he'd still be getting at least 20-30 oz. of formula. If he averages about 6 oz. of milk (let's say) each time he nurses, that's around five good sessions a day.

Anyway, if he's having fun with the solids, then go for it! As long as it's "in addition to" and not "instead of" milk, you're fine. :)


Traci -- my DS didn't start eating a lot of solids until a year, and at 22 months has yet to sleep 10+ hours... ;) But my cycles didn't return until 14 months pp. I did have a lot of discharge and even some 'crampy' feelings in the month or two before, so I was kind of expecting it. If your baby is nursing less and sleeping more, it's likely your cycles will return sooner rather than later.

[Candy]

Thanks Marisa. Yea, I've been taking it & who knows if it's really helping. Hope you & I both get better soon! :)

LMAO! Maya attackes the boob quite often in the morning too. It's hilarious!

I'm still wonderfing when AF will show her face. DD is almost 10 months. Usually sleeps though the night, 11-13 hours. Only nurses on average 4-5 times per day. Still no flo. Ha, that rhymes. lol

[majorgal]

happy: I offer DS solids before nursing because I know he will nurse or take EBM well either before or after. Here is his scheduleduring the week when he is at daycare. On weekends I will offer solids in the AM as well:

6:00 AMish: wake and nurse
9:00 AM: 8oz. of EBM (sometimes he takes a little less)
11:30 AM: oatmeal and fruit
12:00: nurse
3:00: 8 oz. of EBM (generally takes the whole thing)
6:15: mixed grain cereal, veggies and fruit (quite a bit, actually)
7:30: nurse

He is now about 7.5 months and he does STTN (most nights, anyway...damn teeth), so he does not nurse overnight.

I can't judge how much he is actually getting when nursing, but he generally nurses for a while, so I predict it is anywhere between 6 and 8 ounces a session (most in the early AM). Because I know he is getting enough BM, I go with solids first...it just seems to work well for us. It gives us the chance to nurse before bed (very cozy), and, at daycare, they can call me when he is starting his lunch so I know to head over about 30 minutes later. It gives me ample prep time.

Traciann: DS still nurses 3+ times a day and he STTN (about 11 hours). I have had no sign of AF yet (not complaining), and we are 7.5 months PP. He's been on this routine for about five weeks now and I have been waiting for signs of a change but nothing so far.

[kinaida]

Hi all --

I've been a mom for a week and breastfeeding has been going fairly well. However, I've noticed a small white spot on my nipple. It's hard and pretty firm (I can't squeeze it out) and I'm thinking it's a plugged milk duct, but I'm not sure. Dr. Sears says to puncture it with a needle and apply antibiotic ointment -- is it okay for the baby to nurse out of that breast with the antibiotic oitnment?

Thanks :)

[Brink]

Question: My DD is 10 wks old and I have been BFing successfully. However, there are certain days when I just feel empty. I am also having a hard time figuring out when is the right time to pump. If I wait and pump at night after she has gone to bed, I only get about 3 oz (total from both sides). If I pump in the morning, I feel like I'm running out during the day. Also, she goes down around 10:00 each night and sleeps until 7am, shouldn't I be really full by then? I'm not and I'm worried that maybe I'm not producing enough and am getting concerned about when I go back to work (in a few weeks) and have to pump during the day - will I have enough???? Is there anything I can do to increase my supply?

So many questions - hopefully someone has some advice.

[Marisa]

kinaida - yes -- just wipe off any excess right before he nurses again. No need for a deep cleaning -- a wet washcloth will do. :)

Speaking of which, a warm, wet washcloth applied to the area might help clear up that clog, if that's what it is (sounds like it).


Brink -- it sounds like your body has gotten used to the fact that she gets most of her calories during the day (thus you're not over-full at night). You're getting to a point that can be kind of nerve-wracking for many moms, because your body regulates and starts making the 'right' amount of milk, with not a lot of extra.

It doesn't mean that you won't have enough, though. Once you're back at work, you'll be replacing those daytime feedings with pumping sessions, and the milk will be there.

Try pumping during a morning nap, if you can. Late afternoons/evenings can be a 'low' point for many women's milk -- just the way that your hormones dip toward the end of the day. It's very common. If you can pump late at night, too, your hormones surge again and that 'overnight' milk can be some of the fattiest of the whole day as well. (Since you're used to *not* nursing at night, it might take a day or two to get back into a full supply at that time.)

If you can get the hang of pumping one side while baby is nursing on the other, that's also a great trick to get a little more milk. You experience letdown on both sides at once anyway, and the letdown most women get from the baby is stronger than the letdown from the pump.

[LexyLou]

Is it normal for breastfed babies to have really smelly farts? I know their poop doesn't smell bad but DD hasn't really pooped in 3 days but she has super smelly farts. Is this ok?

[SD601]

Alexis, my DS hadn't pooped in three days either, but I kept thinking he had because his farts were so gross. He pooped today, though, and the smelly farts are gone. I guess, uh, he was just backed up.:)

[majorgal]

From the time Aidan was 2 months until about 4 months, his farts could clear rooms. I never imagined something so cute could produce a smell so foul. I think it is totally normal!

[Mrs.Chappy]

hello, i'm returning to work WEd, thurs and fridays. I will have to pump first thing in the morning the days i work (and will not be able to feed DS b/c he sleeps 12 hrs now!!). I can't nurse when i get home b/c its just not enough for him. Is it possible to just nurse 4 mornings a week and pump like crazy and maintain a supply? BEn will be 6 months on Thurs. My goal was 6 months but i don't want to loose the morning feed if i can help it.
thanks

[moderngal]

DS went 3 days without pooping (plenty of stinky farts) and had the most enormous blow out today (right before our photography appointment). And when I say blow out, I mean out the back of the diaper all up his back to his armpits. And as I cleaned him I got some on his head. :eek: I needed to give him 2 baths!! DS of course found all of this hilarious and laughed his little head off while I cleaned him. Cute in an icky sort of way.

Mrs.Chappy~ I don't really understand your situation... can you pump at work? Or if your DS sleeps 12 hours, can you pump after you put him to bed? Are you sure you don't have enough? Have you tried things like oatmeal, fenugreek, etc?

[saathei]

Can you believe I'm at 7.5 months of nursing these girlies? Hurray! They still take bottles, but usually only from daddy when I'm too busy. We've gotten it to the point where I can almost exclusively nurse during the day, which is exciting. They'll claw at my shirt when they want to eat, too, which is really funny!

Question, though - lately my right boob has been kind of sore. Like, it feels like it's engorged even when I just nursed. Also, when one of the girlies latches on, it's a llittle painful like it was at the beginning - I really feel the on-again-off-again stuff they like to do now. :rolleyes: My boobs look the same, though - haven't noticed any redness or whiteness or something out of the ordinary.

And, slightly OT, but how much solid food am I supposed to be giving them now? I'm not sure they're getting enough solids.

[Marisa]

Mrs.Chappy - I agree with moderngal that getting in another pumping session (or two!) while he's asleep for those 12 hours will make a big difference.

I know it might seem like nursing is 'not enough' for a baby in the evenings, because many babies your son's age like to cluster-feed -- nurse for an hour or two (or more) at a time, just pausing long enough to burp and switch sides. Your supply may be a little lower in the evening than it would be in the morning, but that doesn't mean it's not enough for him. In fact, if you're away from him all day, it would be important to nurse him, as an easy way to re-connect with him after a long separation. The added benefit is that the stimulation will keep your milk supply strong.

Then as long as you have regular breaks to pump while you're away at work (every 3-4 hours, at least), you will be all set. :)


saathei -- we cross-posted! :) I am so impressed when I see someone BFing twins, that's great that you can do it almost exclusively!

I know what you mean about soreness and BFing older, active babies. I still get that myself from time to time with no obvious explanation. Does a warm, moist compress or some ibuprofen help?

As for the solids, it's tough to say since every baby is so different as far as what they're ready for. It's important to follow your baby's cues, and start small -- it's easier to offer more if you find that they still seem interested. A 7.5 month old might be eating one or two meals during the day, maybe 1-2 tbsp. of fruit or veggies, or cereal if you're offering. At this point solids are still mainly for practice, and the amount of milk they consume shouldn't change -- it's their primary source of nutrition.

[LexyLou]

saathei-WOW! You are a amazing! Congrats!


OMG Moderngal! That's hysterical. Did you ever think poop could be so funny.

I'm so afraid she's going to blow out when we're out somewhere like the orthopedic Dr! Yikes!

[mcl]

hi alexis,
my son is the same. his toots smelled so bad that you would think it's an adult's toot. one time i even blamed dh. this usually happens for him when he doesn't poop for more than one day. ooh when he finally poops my dh gets hysterical because he would actually offer to pay me to change ds' diaper. the last week or so, he's been pooping twice even three times a day so he hasn't been tooting much.

[solongtogo]

I've got a touch of the flu today I believe, so I stayed home from work and kept DD with me here instead of going to daycare. She won't get an upset stomach from nursing because I have one will she?

[NYN]

solongtogo: someone else could probably answer you better but from what i was told, you should nurse her as much as you can so she gets all the necessary antibodies. nurse her everytime she asks and keep offering her more. lay down w/ her if she'll stay put!

saathei: congratulations - i bow down to you. ;) w/ the nipple pain, this happens to me sometimes b/c i get lazy w/ DD's latch. it's annoying to have to go back to basics but it does help w/ the pain.

[ladybug0525]

Question - We are going on exclusively BF for 7 months next week and I have a question. Jack seems to be nursing for less time than he used to, is this normal? I try to put him back on and then he will just play around and almost bite me because he obviously does not want anymore. He has two teeth for over a month before and has never tried to bite me before. I know I shouldn't watch the clock but it is hard not to. He is growing healthy and we have stated solids but I really think he should eat more than 5 min a side especially in the morning? He takes 6oz bottles at daycare. Who knows sorry for the rambling.

saathei - Great job with the twins! I make my babyfood and Jack takes 1-2 cubes of food twice a day along with ceral. Sorry not sure how this really translates into oz.

[LeslieR]

Anyone have any good tips for nursing in bed? Almost 4mos now and I still cannot get the hang of it! Luke likes to get up a little too early for my tastes, so I'll bring him into bed with me once DH is up for the day (I think our bed is too small for the three of us). I lay on my side, but it just never seems comfy. And I almost always have to hold my boob up for him because he can't seem to get at it otherwise.:rolleyes: I'd love to hear what everyone else does. TIA!

saathei, wow lady! You are truly supermom!:D Congrats!!!

[HGMorgann]

Solongtogo - It is safe to nurse. I was sick when DD was VERY little (like a week old) and my mom gave me some good advice - nurse a lot, but kiss and hug less. :-) Hope you feel better ASAP!

[Sebski]

Hope this question isn't too personal... but, what form of birth control is best while breastfeeding? DH is counting the days until my 6w pp appt at the end of the month and I want to start investigating this now... is the pill ok - will it hurt my supply? Or, is it better to chart? :confused:

[Kiley]

We're using barrier methods (condoms).

[EJM]

Sebski-if you can get a copy of American Baby magazine from last month they had a great article on all forms of BC.

That said I just was cleared myself last week and am starting the mini-pill because it doesn't impact milk supply like other pills can. I don't think you can chart because you may not get your period before you are fertile.

[LeslieR]

We use condoms, too.

[pixiecat]

I'm pretty sure I am going to get the copper IUD (not planning on TTCing #2 for awhile!). The mini-pill is out for me b/c of the failure rate (apparently you have to take it at the same time every day?) and condoms aren't a long term solution for us.

My doctor says that he doesn't think that the regular pill negatively affects milk supply... and this is tempting b/c my body did great w/ the pill... but I'm not willing to risk it - bfing is too awesome!!

[LexyLou]

I'm on the mini pill too.

[adore_one]

I have the IUD and love it (as much as you can a BC method :lol: )

[Marisa]

Leslie -- I had the most success nursing in bed in the beginning by using lots of pillows to make sure we were all propped in the right position. One under my head, one behind DS keeping him in position, one at my back... I also used a cloth diaper or burp cloth, rolled up, under my breast so I wouldn't have to hold it as much (I always had to hold it... still do, sometimes).

Seb -- we use condoms too. The mini pill is not supposed to affect supply, but some women find that it does... and since I got PG while on the regular pill, the fact that you have to take the mini pill at the same time every day, etc. is just too much work and too chance-y for a new mama like me. :)

The regular pill is not recommended, the combination of hormones can definitely cause a supply dip, and the estrogen may transfer to the baby as well.

I don't know... for us, there just wasn't enough reason to chance it. With a small baby, we didn't have all that many opportunities -- or the desire, on some days! -- to be 'spontaneous' anyway, kwim? ;)

Kellymom has good info too: http://www.kellymom.com/health/meds/birthcontrol.html

[LeslieR]

Great tips! Thank you so much, Marisa!

[LexyLou]

OK, I know this question has been asked before but I'm freaking out a bit.

I used to have serious over supply. I would go through nursing pads every 2 hours or so and I would have to pull DD off because I was choking her with my milk....

DD is 10 weeks and now I feel like I don't even have enough milk for her. I tried to pump after my morning feed and I could barely get 3 oz. I used to be able to get 4 oz in less than 10 minutes. Also, I just realized that I haven't been wearing nursing pads all morning and I haven't leaked at all. Plus DD seems like she's not getting as much at each feeding and she seems to be hungry every 2 hours vs her normal 2 1/2 to 3 hours.

I'm also on the mini pill. Am I just regulating or is there a chance I'm losing my supply?

[Brink]

LexiLou - My DD is also 10 wks (born on the 25th) and I am experiencing the EXACT same thing. While I never had a leaking problem before, I am also experiencing the feeling that I am "empty" and that she is not getting enough. A couple of pages back, Marisa had said that my body was just regulating so that I would produce exactly what she needs and not overproduce. Makes sense, but definitely frustrating. I'm trying to build up a supply for starting work and this is making it really difficult. Last night I even took some out of the frig to feed her because she was screaming and wasn't getting anything from me. I'm curious to see what others think also.

[SiValleySteph]

LexiLou & Brink,
If you want my opinion, I would not worry about it at all. Especially, if you can pump 3oz AFTER feeding your daughter. That is a ton!

I think a large part of breastfeeding success is confidence - confidence that you are producing enough for your child and if he/she needs more they will nurse more to up your supply. (Of course, if your child is not producing wet/dirty diapers or growing, then you have a concern.)

I never supplemented my baby with pumped milk or otherwise (except when I was working). If he seemed hungry, I would just put him back on the breast or try the other side. This way if he did need more milk he was stimulating the supply.

FWIW, he sometimes nursed every 2 hours or even every 1 hour. In general, I always go with assumption that everything is normal, so I never worried if he changed his patterns. ;)

[shirsty]

I have a question about food sensitivities, particularly dairy: if your baby is sensitive to dairy, would they react after EVERY feeding? My DS is fussy after 2-3 feedings a day (6 weeks old), as in screamy pain for 20-30 minutes. He will often spit up during these episodes, I basically just keep trying to burp him the whole time and eventually he will calm down, even though I often don't seem to get much for burps out of him. The LC I called today said I should give up all dairy. But if dairy is so pervasive in your system that it takes a couple weeks to get out, wouldn't he react at every feeding, not just some?

[NYN]

shirsty: are the feedings all consecutive feedings and at one particular time? as in the 6pm, 8pm and 10pm feedings? or are they more spaced out in no particular pattern (like he is just fussy randomly?). i agree that if it was dairy it'd be all the time (but then again, i'm just working on an assumption so i don't know -- i'm sure marisa could answer you definitely). if they are all happening consecutively at the same time each day i'd chalk it up to normal fussiness.

i could have written SiValleySteph's post entirely. BF got so much easier for me when i stopped worrying about it all the time and especially when i stopped watching the clock. DD's thighs were my only barometer. :) and i think it's really important to go w/ the flow w/ nursing. DD has literally been nursing ALL DAY LONG today. don't really know why but i trust that she knows what she is doing!!

[jrbnj]

Hello. I'm hoping someone could help me out with a BF problem...DS is only 3 days old and I really want to exclusively breastfeed. My milk came in today and things were going well the past few days and earlier today but the last feeding was torture. My right breast is cracked and bleeding. DS has blood from my nipple on his onsie which was a bit disturbing to see. I know I should stick with it but it's just way too painful so his last meal was formula and he will probably get formula tonight as well. I've been using lansinoh and hope that tomorrow things will have healed up a bit so I can give it another try.

Does anyone have any recommendations or words of advice?

[LexyLou]

shirsty-have you talked to your Dr. about acid reflux?
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

OK, I know you guys are saying my body is just regulating and it's not that my supply has dropped but DD hasn't seem settled all day. She wouldn't sleep longer than 45 minutes at any point and always seemed hungry. I just gave her a 3 oz bottle of EBM less than 2 hours after her last feed and she gulped it down and passed out. Now I feel really badly, like I've been starving her all day. It doesn't make sense how I can go from having so much to so little.

[LILRTL]

Alexis Is she possibly in a growth spurt? She is around 10 weeks, right? I know Zack hit his "12 week" at 11 weeks... I also know that with him, even if he is completely full, he will easily take a bottle. I've seen that by the spit-up afterwards. :rolleyes: Hope you are reassured soon! :)

[Dreshny]

Alexis: It sounds like a growth spurt to me...

jrbnj: I'm sorry about the sore nipples. I remember those days well. :rolleyes: It was scary for me to watch DS spit up my blood. I used to eye the can of formula that the hospital gave me longingly...

That said, if you can, avoid using the formula. I know, it hurts, and it's horrible, and it's hard to bond with a baby that's hurting you. But if you replace nursings with formula, especially this early on, your body won't know how much milk your baby needs, and you won't produce the right amount to feed him. It's actually very important to nurse as much as possible in the early days.

Is there any way you could pump and feed DS the expressed milk in a bottle instead of giving formula? That way, at least your body knows there's a feeding going on.

Here is what helped my sore nipples:

1) (This is an important one) Can you get a lactation consultant to check DS's latch?

2) Rubbing breastmilk on them and letting them air dry
3) Warm salt water dips (and letting them air dry afterwards)
4) Exposing them to air whenever possible (I remember taking a topless car ride when DS was a few weeks old)
5) Lansinoh
6) Using a nipple shield (I would wait on this one, though, unless you get more "expert" advice to do this)

I thought they would never heal, and it did take several weeks for me. Hopefully, yours will heal sooner--I didn't seek help until DS was 3 weeks old. Yet here I am, still nursing 6 months later.

I hope this helps. I'll bet Marisa will come in here, too, and offer some more tips. (She's the thread expert.)

I just wanted to offer some encouragement to a fellow sore-nipple sufferer--the beginning is hard, but you can do it!

[newyorkgirl]

jrbnj - do you have a breastpump? Sometimes, you might want to pump (gently) when it's too painful to breastfeed. That way, you can keep stimulating your body to supply milk (the first few days are really key in establishing your supply) and baby doesn't have to resort to formula. I would also recommend that you meet with a lactation consultant asap. She may be able to help you try to find ways to nurse that are less painful - maybe a different position (cross cradle was painful for me at the beginning, we did the football hold for the longest time) or perhaps a nipple shield.

Here are a couple things I think could be useful to help manage the pain and make sure you don't develop further problems. First, Motrin is your friend. If you aren't already taking it to manage postpartum pain, take it for the nipple pain. It will also help alleviate some of the inflammation from the cracked nips. Second, get your DH to go to the drugstore to get you the following: Lotrimin AF (to help you prevent thrush), Polysporin (antibiotic) and 1% hydrocortisone ointment (reduce inflammation and subsequently help prevent plugged ducts). Mix it up as follows: 2 parts Lotrimin, 2 parts Polysporin and 1 part hydrocortisone. Apply sparingly after each nursing. You don't need to wipe it off to nurse, if you don't apply it liberally, it should have absorbed by the next feeding.

Keep it up and keep coming here for advice! I know it's hard and I know it's painful - there were days during those first couple weeks I would be nursing and weeping at the same time because it was so painful but I was determined to breastfeed.

ETA: Oops! Cross-posted with Roseanne. :)

[Cali_Katy]

jrbnj -- The advice here has been great. I just wanted to post that I remember when my son was three or four days old, he spit up my blood and I was so freaked out! I knew it was from my nipple, but it was still really scary. I went to see a lactation consultant the next day, and she helped me out a lot. Believe me, IT DOES GET EASIER.

[wendstress]

shirsty-have you talked to your Dr. about acid reflux?
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

OK, I know you guys are saying my body is just regulating and it's not that my supply has dropped but DD hasn't seem settled all day. She wouldn't sleep longer than 45 minutes at any point and always seemed hungry. I just gave her a 3 oz bottle of EBM less than 2 hours after her last feed and she gulped it down and passed out. Now I feel really badly, like I've been starving her all day. It doesn't make sense how I can go from having so much to so little.

LexyLou - IMHO everything is JUST FINE! If you made enough milk in the beginning, and she is gaining weight just fine....you are still making enough milk. Honest. I'll tell you a little about my story in a second...

As for the fussiness.... She's probably at the height of fussiness in her life. And just like you can have a bad day, so can she. I sincerely doubt you are starving her.... She's growing so fast, and taking in more and more....bound to make for over-stimulated, cranky babies.

I started pumping to prepare to go back to work when James was about 6 weeks old. I'd pump a little in between feedings, or "steal" an ounce just before a feeding..... It never seemed like I could get too much, but it slowly but surely added up.

When I went back to work, I had 300-400 ounces of EBM, ready for emergencies. I continued to pump when I went back to work and my freezer stash grew, even after leaving enough for James. To make a long story short, I ended up donating just under 1,000 ounces of milk to the Mothers Milk Bank of Ohio. And I can't even tell you how many times I was worried that I didn't make enough. Morale of the story - Even though Mothers will worry, everything will work out just fine.

You want so desperately to be the perfect mom to your perfect baby, but everything is new and there is no manual! Again, if she's growing well, and generally happy, you have nothing to worry about.

[Mickey&B]

Alexis I just wanted to say I'm in the same boat, where I used to pump 4-5 oz I am now only getting 1-2 oz if I am lucky! and that's between feedings (like an hour after he eats, or early in the morning)
It seems like my little guy is getting a little frustrated at times during a feeding, but I just keep trying switching sides I eventually hear the gulping and swallowing so I know he is getting something! Someone posted about confidence with nursing and I think that is so true, I have to believe that he is getting what he needs, especially since I had so much in the begining. He's got rolls and rolls :p so he must be doing fine but it can be so frustrating especially when you are trying to build your freezer stash!

[HGMorgann]

jrbnj I remember the days of cracked nipples! They hurt and are no fun at all. I'm sorry you are experiencing this, but you CAN get through it. I HIGHLY recommend "Soothies" to wear before and after feedings. You can get them at larger drugstores. An LC would also have "Hydrogels" (which are Soothie-like dressings). I recommend talking to an LC and having her check your latch. For us, a bad latch was the reason for the cracked nipples - and us both falling asleep while nursing! Youch. Also, give your breasts as much "air time" as possible. I know it is so tempting to give formula, but try to breastfeed. You can safely take Ibuprophen to help with the pain. Also, in order to help keep the baby's latch good, if you must supplement, give it to him with a medicine cup. I know that many new moms have also found success with using a nipple shield. It allows your nipples to heal. I have heard many success stories through the shield. For me, I used the Soothies (put them in the fridge while you feed) and used lots of Lanisoh and that allowed me to heal. Make sure that the baby's mouth is as wide as possible when you latch him on and if you take your nipple and kinda sweep it from his nose toward his mouth, it encourages a wider mouth/deeper latch. I am actually dealing with a bite (from teeth) now, and when I latch her on using this it helps alleviate the pain from the bite because her latch is improved.

I know its hard, but it is so worth it. :-)

[dbers]

Does anyone know if I can have Cold Eeze will BFing?

[shirsty]

NewYork - I have just started tracking when he gets fussy, but so far it seems pretty random, though it does seem to happen more in the AM. I am reluctant to give up dairy, so I think I'm kind of looking for a reason not to. But it really doesn't seem logical to me that dairy would be bothering him so much at some feedings and not others, you know??

Lexy - I have not talked to the dr. about reflux, but I am suspecting it more and more. From reading this thread I know you have struggled with it, at what age did it start to be a problem for you??

[miel]

One tip about cracked nipples--put the lanolin on--SLATHER IT--before and after you take a shower. The crucial thing is not to let them dry out.

I used to glob the stuff on (after the annoying lactation consultant--all the LCs were just a nightmare told me not to use it and I had such problems). I'd then put a nursing pad to soak up the excess. My baby had kind of a greasy face but I really had no problems when I went to town with the lanolin. I got the generic Target kind.

[Marisa]

I only have a second but

jrbn - I was in exactly the same position as you are right now, when my son was born. My nipples were so damaged that I dreaded feeding him.

If you are only 3 days pp then it's not too late to get back on track. As others have said, it's crucial to not give formula if at all possible, because your body is only right now learning how much milk to make for your baby. If you can pump to relieve your pain and give expressed milk that's much better.

I used a nipple shield with my son for about 6 weeks total. My nipples were too damaged to heal any other way, and it really saved our BFing relationship. My son never had any formula at all. My shield was given to me by a great LC, but you can buy them at Target as well, in the feeding aisle. They're $6 each - less than a can of formula ;).

Try to get in touch with someone who can take a look at your latch. This much damage is probably caused by a bad latch, esp. if he's been getting bottles. If your hospital does not have a LC on staff, try La Leche League, someone will talk to you for free: http://www.llli.org/WebUS.html

You can't do this by yourself, you shouldn't have to. :)

[Kiley]

Shirsty - I've found that DS gets fussy and spits up and screams after feedings when I've eaten acidy foods - tomatoes and citrus fruits. Otherwise, he's fine.

[LeslieR]

jrbn, just wanted to add my support. I've pumped blood a couple times which totally freaked me out. Everyone has given you great advice already, I can only echo the Motrin advice. Take it AROUND THE CLOCK! Also, if you try bf'ing without the nipple shield, you can slather Lansinoh on your baby's lips, that will help the pain a bit. Hang in there, it will get better I promise!

Marisa, I tried your tips this morning and it worked out perfectly! I zonked out and Luke alternated between nursing and napping all on his own. TY!!!


Now I need help (again) with two things. One, can someone tell me what kind of batteries the Purely Yours takes or is there a car adaptor available? We're going to a concert Friday in NYC and will likely be gone about 8 hours. I'm thinking I'm going to need to pump in the car or else I'm going to be *really* uncomfortable. Two, DH wants to leave by 5 at the latest, which means we'll probably end up leaving at 4:30. The band will probably take the stage at around 8:30. I'm hoping we'll be home by 12:30. Luke usually goes to bed around 7 and will wake up at either 1 or 3 to nurse. I would normally nurse him twice between 5 and 7 as nursing is part of his bedtime routine, so I'm thinking he might need two bottles while I'm gone. Plus I'm worried that he may wake up before we get home and want to eat again even though he won't necessarily need to. I am totally clueless on how much milk to leave. I plan on nursing as much during the day as possible (this is going to be the first time I've left him for this long) and obviously right before we leave. He still doesn't consistently take a bottle, so that's an issue, too. There have been times where he will suck down 4oz and want more and then other times where he won't even take the 4oz at all. I'm guessing I should just leave 16oz to cover it in case some miracle occurs and he takes the bottle with no problem? Or does that sound like too much? FWIW, he'll be 4mos tomorrow and we think he weighs 20lbs now. TIA!

[NYN]

leslie - the PY takes 6 AA batteries. i used mine at a wedding and the batteries worked fine so i never bought a car adaptor. i think 16oz sounds fine. i panicked when i was at the wedding so i left 6 bottles but DD only took two. i froze the rest of it so no big deal. better to leave more than less IMO. i also gave my mom detailed instructions on how to break into the freezer stash if need be. don't know why i was being so crazy since i left 12 hours left of food but you never know, lol.

[Daniel's Kitty]

16 ounces sounds fine. I usually take a couple frozen bottles to babysitter in case Ben decides to be a pig.

And that way I know it wasn't heated in the microwave too, although probably shaken more than a chocalate milk shake since MIL knows so much more than me.

[JillyB]

Leslie - I've used my PY with "battery-power" and the car adapter. Both have worked fine for me, so I'm sure you'll have no problems. Enjoy your Mama's night out! The only thing that I've experienced is that the pump drains the batteries pretty quick, but for one night, you'll be just fine! Right now, DS takes 5 oz bottles at daycare (takes 3 bottles during the work day), but he doesn't seem to eat as much at night...when my hubby has fed him in the evenings, Landen usually falls asleep before he finishes the bottle. HTH!

[LILRTL]

I posted this in my journal a minute ago - long, but I thought it deserved a place here! hehe

I love my BFed baby!!!!!!!!!!!!! :D

Zack had his 4-month appointment today. 16 lbs. 6.5 oz!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! He is a COW. :p 80% for weight. ALLLLLL breastmilk, baby! :D :D (Can ya tell I'm excited?)

Also, he is 25.6" long - 70%. My big, big, big boy!!!! This means we are moving on to his "big" carseat. Ahhh - that's sad.

He was pitiful with his shots. They pricked his finger to test his iron and he didn't flinch. But those shots? WOW. I had to nurse him to calm him down. Now, he is passed out in his crib.

Oh - on the issue of solids, he said that we could introduce them if we wanted, but Zack is thriving without it, so not to worry. :D We'll see!

Oh! One more thing (sorry - I'm bragging today. lol). With his iron, his first pediatrician told us to give him iron supplements - that BFed babies needed it, etc. I refused - saying I was giving him everything he needed. His iron was supposed to be at least 11. His was 15.2! :D

[solongtogo]

I posted this in my journal a minute ago - long, but I thought it deserved a place here! hehe

I love my BFed baby!!!!!!!!!!!!! :D

Zack had his 4-month appointment today. 16 lbs. 6.5 oz!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! He is a COW. :p 80% for weight. ALLLLLL breastmilk, baby! :D :D (Can ya tell I'm excited?)




Wooo! That's a big baby! Good for you! I have my baby's 4 month appt at the end of the month, I'm anxious to see how much she weighs. Has your son shown interest in starting solids yet?

[LILRTL]

Lisa Not really. He watches a lot of what we eat, but doesn't reach for it, etc. We may try closer to 5 months. We'll see! :)

[Sebski]

I have a question from my SIL actually... she just gave birth to her first last Thursday and her milk still hasn't come in yet. She had breast reduction surgery years ago and she thinks that might be preventing it from happening. But, she has colustrum and that's coming out just fine. Is it possible to have that, but then not milk? Doesn't it come from the same place? :confused: And, is it possible for milk to come in this late?

Thanks!

[LeslieR]

Thanks NewYorkNovia and Jill! I'm just a tiny (okay, a lot) bit nervous about leaving him for the first time. lol

Lora, WOOHOO!!! That is great news. I am so happy for you and Zack. We have Luke's 4mo appt today, too. I'll have to come back and post his stats.:D

[solongtogo]

Doesn't it come from the same place? :confused: And, is it possible for milk to come in this late?

Thanks!


Collustrum is the premilk, so it's going to have to turn to milk sometime right? I thought it took 5-7 days for milk to come in, but I bet that number can have a little edge factor to it. The baby is still getting all that he needs...I'd have her schedule a weigh in at the pedi in a week, that way she can tell if he's gaining right. He should be back to or close to his birth weight then...

[Marisa]

Lora -- sounds like a great visit! :D

Seb -- it took about 6 days after a c/s for my milk to come in, and when it did, I really knew it.

Breastfeeding after a reduction can be tricky stuff, though -- it depends a lot on how the operation was performed, how much was removed, etc. It is IMPERATIVE that she work with someone knowledgeable to make sure that baby will be getting enough milk, because many women find that they need to do at least a little supplementing.

Is she near us? I loved Maria at the Lactation Resource Center in Chatham (right by the Short Hills Mall). She was the one who 'saved' our BFing relationship! :)

http://www.expectantmothersguide.com/profiles/LactationResourceCtr/

She might also want to take a look at the resources here:

http://www.bfar.org/

Breastfeeding After Reduction Information and Support.

[Daniel's Kitty]

Lora you are lucky. Ben kept trying to stick his hand in my thanksgiving dinner. He discovered sweet potatos that night cause he was so determined. He has more than enough interest in solids.

[kinaida]

Wow lilrtl -- that weight gain is great!!! It is amazing how our bodies are just designed to care for these little ones :)

My Ben was weighed yesterday after being weighed 6 days ago. He was 7 lbs 11 oz last week and weighed in at a whopping 8 lbs 12 oz yesterday! The nurse couldn't believe it, she kept checking his chart, his birth weight (7 lbs 14 oz), his weight from last week and recalibrated the scale... My boy likes his mama's milk!

2 Questions:

1. When will the latch pain subside (DS is 11 days old)? It hurts like crazy for about 5 seconds and then we're fine (when I hold my breast it's pain-free).

2. Do you guys wear a nursing bra to bed? I am gun-shy after my plugged duct (read somewhere that wearing a bra that is too tight can be one cause) and have tried going to bed without a nursing bra, but my nightshirt is SOAKED by the morning because I'm leaking so much! Maybe I should just bite the bullet and wear the bra to bed?

[Kiley]

bra to bed - I didn't/don't wear a nursing bra to bed. Yes, I woke up with soaking wet shirts and sheets but then I just changed my shirt and put a towel down on the bed. It didn't bother me too much and I think that might be part of why I have a good supply. Today (at 3.5 mo), I don't leak at night unless DS sleeps through the night. I also got plugged ducts from wearing underwire bras while pumping at work. Now, I wear nursing tanks and so far so good.

Some people wear lilypadz to bed that way you could avoid wearing a bra and not have wet sheets.

latch pain - it stopped when my nipples started to heal.

[NYN]

i do wear a bra to bed but i don't know why i bother b/c lately when i wake up in the mornings the straps on my nursing bras are always undone and my bb's are hanging out (DD's gums must be hurting b/c she is feeding all night).

question for those of you w/ babies on solids: DD is 4.5 months and has zero interest in solids from what i can tell. she couldn't care less if we are eating or not. my friend's DS is 2 weeks younger than her and he practically lunges at you when you are eating (he is also exclusively breast fed and he is MUCH smaller than my DD). i'm not super worried or anything but just curious as to whether or not anyone else had this happen. i give her spoons to play w/ and she does put them in her mouth but then again, she seems to put everything in her mouth lately. she will have interest in table food one day, won't she?

[Marisa]

kinaida - it sounds like when you're not holding it, he may be pulling at it somehow to cause the few seconds of pain. You might find that you just have to hold it for him for a few weeks or so, until he has better head control. I have larger breasts, and I found it much more comfortable to hold it as my DS latched on for the first couple of months.

As for wearing a bra to bed, I avoided it for the first week or so, and just slept on a towel on top of a crib pad, with towels in front of me... and I still soaked through! When I became more comfortable with the idea, I bought a very simple "sleep bra" -- just a very stretchy, cotton bra with a sort of 'wrap' in the front -- that was not constrictive, but would hold the pads in place. Much better!!

Teba - did you see moderngal's thread on solids? Frankly, there's so much info on how delaying until 6 mos is better for them, that I think it's important for us as parents to exercise our parental control as much as possible on this one. All babies lunge for objects when they see you holding them -- a young baby is too young to really understand that what you're doing is feeding yourself. I think your approach of redirecting her is a great one -- chances are she just wants an object to hold and investigate, rather than some of your food.

Letting her digestive system mature, letting her intestines solidify, that's all important stuff IMO. And if you try at 6 mos, as I said in mg's thread, and it's not successful, back off for a week or two and try again. I've never seen a kid yet who's gone off to kindergarten exclusively nursed. ;) My son was slow to take to solids until after 10-11 months, but now he eats absolutely everything.... he just never had cereals and mush, he waited for table foods. :)

[nancy drew]

kindra good job, mama!!!! ben is going to be nathans size in no time!! ;) as far as what to wear to bed, i have some majamas nursing tank tops that used to work for me but dont anymore. if you want to try one or something im happy to pass it along to see if it works. if you want other options (and to see info about the majamas top) visit babystyle (http://www.babystyle.com/common/dProductFrame.asp?sort=X&sPg=0&vwa=1&sale=0&DepartmentID=3&CategoryID=24&SubCategoryID=493&ClassID=639) and see what they have.

ETA: when i say the top doesnt work for me anymore i just mean it doesnt fit right. i was typing in a hurry so i wasnt very clear. i like the tank tops and nursing camisoles so much better than wearing a bra, its much more comfy and you can still put nursing pads in them.

[LeslieR]

Okay, we're back from Luke's appt...

20lbs 3 3/4oz and 27 1/8in!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 75th% for the head and 97th% for both weight and height.


I do wear a bra at night. I used to just wear tank tops with the shelf bra, but that was when I was using breast pads with the adhesive on the back of them. I really like the Gerber breast pads and they don't have adhesive on them so I have to wear a bra to keep them in place.

[LILRTL]

Leslie WOOOHOOOOO! :D :D :D

[kinaida]

kinaida - it sounds like when you're not holding it, he may be pulling at it somehow to cause the few seconds of pain. You might find that you just have to hold it for him for a few weeks or so, until he has better head control.
Marisa -- sorry, I worded that poorly. I feel pain when he first latches on, irregardless of whether or not I'm holding my breast. After he's latched on and I'm holding my breast, I'm pain-free, but it always hurts when he first latches on. Is this something that gets better? I have to think it's not his latch since I would probably feel pain during the entire nursing session?

eta: Nancy -- thanks!!! I'll let you know if I'd like to try that top from you.

[solongtogo]

Marisa I feel pain when he first latches on, irregardless of whether or not I'm holding my breast. After he's latched on and I'm holding my breast, I'm pain-free, but it always hurts when he first latches on. Is this something that gets better? I have to think it's not his latch since I would probably feel pain during the entire nursing session?

.

I had this too for a good 4 weeks, and it was so excruciating I would cry almost every time she ate. It wasn't the latch either, as I had a LC watch us do it. It went away after week 6.., and I've had no other pain associated with breastfeeding since. Maybe just takes some people a little longer to get used to bfing, hang in there though...it will get better!

[pgbg]

kinaida I remember the painful few seconds when DS first latched on. It used to curl my toes, but then didn't hurt once he started feeding. I'm not really sure, but I think it was no more than 2 weeks or so. Hang in there!
I terms of the bra, I wear a soft one to bed (that just criss-crosses in front, no snap or hook -- KWIM?) mostly to hold the pads. I actually don't leak at all anymore unless DH does a couple of feeds in a row, but I still wear it just in case (just in case DS decides to finally STTN!!!). I'd rather do that than have to wash bedding a lot. HTH!

[newyorkgirl]

Leslie, OMG! Way to go! :D

[LeslieR]

Lora and NewYorkGirl, thanks! I know you know what I mean when I say there were days when I didn't think we were going to make it!


So, I've hit a snag in our plans for the concert tomorrow. We've decided to take the train. I don't think I can pump on the train comfortably.:p And even if I could, I think security at MSG might confiscate my pump from me.:rolleyes: I'm wondering if I "empty" both breasts before we leave, how uncomfortable would I be by the end of the night? I only offer one breast at each feeding, so I'm thinking I have likely gone 8 hours (at least on one side) between feedings before. What do you guys think? Worst case scenario, if I'm terribly uncomfortable, I guess I could go into the bathroom and hand express some milk to get some relief. Right?

[Allegra]

Leslie - don't do it. I PROMISE YOU - as a wedding photographer who occasionally HAS to go long periods of time without pumping, I felt MISERABLE. Luckily never got mastitis but whoosh. some nights I RAN in the door to my DD. You CAN pump on the train (they have fairly large rest rooms usually - or are you referring to the subways?) The other thing you might consider is the pump you wear? Some bright computer person should be able to ggole that somehow but I know I've seen a pump that you wear under your clothes? I considered it but it would not work with my equipment banging all over the place...

Allegra

PS congrats on your BIG BABY!

[snowzilla]

I agree with Allegra, Leslie. You'd be incredibly uncomfortable, and then you really wouldn't enjoy the concert, y'know?

The security person would be nuts, btw, to confiscate your breast pump from you, unless he/she thinks it's some kind of new-fangled beer bong. :rolleyes:

[Marisa]

Ooh, Leslie -- this is a tough one, but I'm going to have to go with the previous posters.

I went into the city for a concert when my son was between 2-3 mos old. We tried to time it so that we'd be gone only a few hours, I think it was five or so. I fed him right before we left, then didn't get to pump until after the concert was over (in the car on the way home).

OMG, I was so uncomfortable that I actually left the show, it was in a venue with a bar so I went out and sat on the couch in the bar area while the show was going on. I'm not really sure how I could've planned it better, but I was miserable until I could get back to the car and hook myself up! :) (And I'm sure that the friends that we went to the concert with were either amused or weirded out, but I didn't care at all at that point! :D)

[JillyB]

Leslie - Holy healthly baby Batman!!! Way to go!!! Mama's milk is incredible stuff! :D On the subject of the concert...I went to a concert last Friday (my first Mama's night out). I was able to feed my little man around 6:00, before we went to the concert. I didn't get home until around midnight (Hubby gave him a bottle when putting him to sleep). I pumped as soon as I walked through the door (DS usually eats every 3 hours on the dot during the day). I really wasn't too uncomfortable, but the "girls" were definitely ready for some relief. On the other hand, I've had days here at work, when I've been stuck in a meeting, and I wasn't able to pump at my "scheduled" times. And I've been VERY uncomfortable while sitting in these meetings, praying for them to hurry and finish up. So to be on the "safe" side and be able to really enjoy the concert, I would say take your pump with you. You definitely want to be comfortable, so you can really enjoy the show!

Bra to Bed - I stocked up on the nursing tanks from Target, and I usually sleep in them. I love them! I also have a sleep bra (like others have mentioned...kind-of like a sports bra, but not as tight, with the cross-over in the front), and I sometimes wear this to bed. I still leak during the night, so I feel more comfortable wearing the nursing tanks or the sleep bra to bed.

[LeslieR]

Crap. I don't know what to do.:( Thanks so much for the replies. It's snowing pretty heavily and I just feel safer taking the train.

Allegra, it is the actual train, so I guess I can pump in the bathroom. Thank you for that-I wasn't sure. This would be my first train trip into the city as DH usually prefers to drive. I think he's only agreeing to the train because he knows I'm a paranoid freak about driving (on top of being worried about leaving Luke).

Now the question is whether they will try to confiscate my pump? I have the bag that it goes in which I think looks like a purse. I don't know if they do purse searches at MSG or not? ugh.

[newyorkgirl]

Leslie, I *cannot* imagine that the security at MSG would be so daft as to confiscate a breastpump. I actually think that, when you tell them is a "breastpump, and this bottle here is full of breastmilk" they would just wave you on.

[LeslieR]

NewYorkGirl, you would think! I seem to remember from other shows that purse checks are not exactly thorough, so if I throw some stuff on top of the pump, they may not even see it. Although, I bet you're on to something with telling them it's a breastpump and breastmilk. lol

[aprilshowers]

Hi everyone, I've been lurking along in prep for the arrival of our child in March. I definitely appreciate all the knowledge you women have!

Leslie, I just wanted to mention that some train stations (and maybe even MSG) have lockers you can rent - maybe you could leave the pump in one for the concert? Good luck and I hope you enjoy the show!

Can't wait to officially join you all in a couple of months!

[Cosmogirl]

LeslieGood luck for the show. As far as the pump thing, I had a couple of party where I went and didn,t pump for a long period of time. Last night only, I had an appointment, and nursed the last time at 2, and pumped after that at 10 yesterday night. Personally, I didn't mind. But I'm used to William making it thorugh the night and have the equivalent of 12 hours of milk making in my bb's. I personally wouldn't bring the pump, but if you are not used to not pumping for a long time, you might be uncomfortable. I remember really NOT being comfy at first when Will started sleeping longer. I understand your dilemma though about the confiscating thing...it is kinda tricky. The locker idea is kinda good thought, that might be a good option!

[gretazmama]

Quick question: I've been nursing for 18 months and in the last week or so my DD has been going on nursing marathons. We still nurse the same number of times/day (4) but she nurses a LOT longer than usual at each session. She used to nurse for about 20 minutes when she first woke up, now she's going for 45. Same for when she wakes up from her nap and before bed.

Is my supply dwindling? She has some milk on her mouth when she pulls off, so I think she's getting some, and it's not like it's her main source of food by a long shot.

I just wondered if this is developmental, if anyone else has experienced this, etc.

TIA.

[Marisa]

We had a similar thing happen here when Joey was about 18 months, over the summer. Turned out to coincide with him getting about six teeth at once, including a couple of molars. The kid seriously had five teeth until 18 months, now (3 months later) he has almost all of them.

[LexyLou]

How do you guys pump in the car and on trains and stuff? I'm pretty sure my pump has to be plugged in. Can you operate your pumps on batteries?

[mollyeilis]

Quick question: I've been nursing for 18 months and in the last week or so my DD has been going on nursing marathons. We still nurse the same number of times/day (4) but she nurses a LOT longer than usual at each session. She used to nurse for about 20 minutes when she first woke up, now she's going for 45. Same for when she wakes up from her nap and before bed.

Is my supply dwindling? She has some milk on her mouth when she pulls off, so I think she's getting some, and it's not like it's her main source of food by a long shot.

I just wondered if this is developmental, if anyone else has experienced this, etc.

TIA.


This happens about every month with my cycle. Does it seem to coincide for you?

My other thought is that this is the time of year for feeling icky, and nursing can surely help with that. Is she not feeling 100%? Antibodies and comfort in one meal, yum! :D

[EJM]

How do you guys pump in the car and on trains and stuff? I'm pretty sure my pump has to be plugged in. Can you operate your pumps on batteries?

The PIS Advanced comes with a battery pack, and I believe you can also purchase a car adapter. I think it takes 8 or 10 batteries at a time.

For those who use batteries, how long do they last? The room I might be using to pump once I return to work may not have an accessible outlet :rolleyes:

[Marisa]

How do you guys pump in the car and on trains and stuff? I'm pretty sure my pump has to be plugged in. Can you operate your pumps on batteries?

I have a car adapter, but the Purely Yours also takes batteries.

I also feel a little more comfortable if I have a shawl or something while I'm doing it, not giving the truck drivers a free show, KWIM? :)

[Hawaii2SJ]

Quick question for you mommies. DS is 6weeks old and I think my milk supply is pretty good. Breastfeeding is going great but I want to know how long I have to feed him with both boobs during each feeding session?? When can I just feed him one boob at a time?? Or will that affect my supply?

Also did any of you have struggles with your DC when you are trying to get them to take the boob?? DS is always fishing for the boob and I have to fight with him to direct him in the right direction. He gets so frustrated and arches his back away and swats his arms all over the place. Any suggestions? He's a strong little buggger too.

TIA

[mollyeilis]

FWIW, I never fed DS from both boobs until much, much later. So no, it isn't necessary. :) Your supply will *change*, but it shouldn't be a bad change.

As for the fighting thing, from our experience, I'd say that's normal.

If you talk to the EC folks (elimination communication), they'd suggest that maybe baby wants to pee, when they arch away and such. :)

[celina]

Just wanted to check in and say we're doing good. :D I'm finally able to keep up with her (knock on wood). I only supplement with formula when it's inconvenient to nurse - so not very often. For instance, today she only had BM. :D :D :D Of course I'm still taking 15 pills of supplements a day (9 Fenugreek pills and 6 Blessed Thistle pills) and I smell like celery salt, but it's worth it. ;)

Thanks for all the support ladies. :D

[Marisa]

Hawaii -- glad to hear that things are going so well for you! It is entirely up to you if you'd like to keep switching for every feeding. As Molly mentioned, you may see a little shift in your supply if you go one-sided -- the other side may be extra-full for a day or two, for example, as you feed from the first side -- but you'd still be switching from feeding to feeding, so it should remain balanced. As long as he's nursing for around 10-15 minutes at this age, he's getting enough hindmilk.

At his age, the swatting and fighting and flailing is still pretty normal, it will get better as he has a little more control over his limbs. Does he like to be swaddled still? Will he put up with being swaddled to nurse?

celina, that's wonderful news! Hey, celery salt can be a nice smell... no? :D

[Mrs.Chappy]

any tips on weaning w/o getting mastitis..made it to my 6 month mark but i think w/ returning to work DS is just not happy at the breast so i will resort to pumping and giving him bottles of EBM and formula. I think i want to wean completely by new years. I just don't want to hurt during the process. i'm currently pumping 5x/day. when its time to pump i am getting breast pains but don't pump so much anyway. I just heard mastitis is really painful and want to avoid that. thanks.

[LexyLou]

Celina-You rock! Seriously, do you know how many woman would have given up? You didn't and I think it's totally awesome. :)

[LeslieR]

Just wanted to let you ladies know that I made it through the night okay. I took my pump in the carrier and the security guy at MSG just barely glanced inside (I had a book on top and my wallet off to the side). I made it all the way to the train ride home before I *really* needed to pump. I successfully pumped both sides and DH was shocked at the amount of milk that came out of each breast. When I handed him the first bottle so that he could put the cap on, he said "All of that came out of you?" lol Anyway, thanks again for the help. We're heading out there again tonight for night 2-not sure if we're going to take the train again. Waaaay too much walking for me. We couldn't get a taxi to save our lives, so we walked all the way from Grand Central to MSG. And then the same again from MSG to Grand Central. Needless to say, I am POOPED.

[Marisa]

Mrs. Chappy -- honestly, for your health, I'd give it a little longer than New Years. The best way to go about it is to drop only one pumping session, every few days. Since it's cold/flu season anyway, you don't want to risk your body being vulnerable to any kind of infection, esp. with a small baby around, KWIM?

Try dropping one session, and pumping a little less time at the others, for a few days... you could even space out your pumping if that makes sense in your schedule. Then after about 3-4 days, drop another pump, and so on. On this type of schedule you would be finished in around 3-4 weeks.

(The positive is that he gets a couple of extra weeks of your milk, which is full of antibodies and great for him during this time of year! ;))

Leslie -- Glad you made it through! Yeah, I would hate to have to schlep around the city this time of year, I barely can talk myself into it normally! :) I remember that first night out, when I finally got to pump, I had so much milk that I really wished I'd brought more bottles! I filled a 4oz. bottle on each side and could have kept going! :D

[Dally]

Celina, ITA that you rock. :) I think it's great you stuck with it!

[solongtogo]

Celina, I'm so proud of you! I'm proud of all of us....breastfeeding is so much more difficult than you'd think it would be, especially those first 6 weeks!


Sadly, I don't respond well to the pump, even while taking tea, fenugreek, and oatmeal, the most I can get out of the 3 times I pump at work is 10 oz , and so my baby has to have 1-2 bottles a day of formula. I feel like such crap for this, I know I shouldn't because she's still getting food, but I feel like a miserable failure. Everyone else can get enough to feed their baby, why can't I?? Oh well..roll with the punches :(

[miel]

Sadly, I don't respond well to the pump, even while taking tea, fenugreek, and oatmeal, the most I can get out of the 3 times I pump at work is 10 oz , and so my baby has to have 1-2 bottles a day of formula. I feel like such crap for this, I know I shouldn't because she's still getting food, but I feel like a miserable failure. Everyone else can get enough to feed their baby, why can't I?? Oh well..roll with the punches

Well...I don't think I got more than 10 ozs any day at work. And then I got less probably because (1) I was lazy and didn't pump all the time as I should have and (2) I gave my baby formula sometimes even when I just needed a break or I was too embarassed to bf in front of people.

She's a fine, happy baby (well, toddler). I still BF--at 20 mos.---slightly against my will (she loves BM like life itself).

I know that I often felt uncomfortable feeding my baby formula but I really think formula is not so bad for