Breastfeeding update - Breastfeeding Message Board

beabonnet · 12-05-2006, 10:59 AM

I went in to see the lactation consultant at the hospital today regarding my supply issue. She weighed my little guy and then set me up with an SNS system. My little guy latched on to my surprise and drank quite a fit from the system. But, after the feeding, a weighing showed that he had not received any measurable amount from me - all of it was from the formula from the system. The consultant also said it didn't feel like their was milk in my breasts.

I'm contemplating trying the system for a short time to see if it helps. If not, this is the end of the road for me. I have to call it quits if this doesn't work or I will drive myself crazy.

Regardless of how this end up working out, I'm very thankful for the support and advice I've received here. If it doesn't work and I have to quit, I know I'll have tried everything possible.

KeltoKel · 12-05-2006, 07:03 PM

Good luck Bea. I know how frustrating it can be. My supply is still not abundant and I continue to supplement my 4 week old with formula. I have come to accept our routine and feel good with my decision to breast and bottle feed.

Don't beat yourself up over it. Your baby will be perfectly fine with formula feeding.

debating · 12-05-2006, 07:29 PM

Can I ask a question? And please don't be offended by this, beacause remember, I was in the SAME situation as you....

Why would you quit? Honestly? Even you need an SNS and formula as a supplement, what is wrong with continuing to do the best you can? Even if your baby gets most of his nourishment from formula, if he is willing to latch on, why would you quit?

This was the reasoning that kept me going. I was going to let her nurse for as long as she wanted too.. even if there wasn't anything there. Breastfeeding is not just about food. It is so much more, and there doesn't have to be milk to have a breastfeeding relationship.

Having said that, continue with the SNS. It is the stimulation your breasts need without the pump, though I would still continue to pump anyway.

DON'T GIVE UP. Do the best you can, and if that means you need formula, then you need formula. There is absolutely no reason you can't do both. Quitting doesn't need to be an option. ((hugs))

KeltoKel · 12-06-2006, 01:59 PM

I think some people just get very overwhelmed, tired and frustrated by it and that is why they quit. It is just a decision they are making - most likely based on keeping their sanity.

I still breast feed my son, but HAVE to supplement since I only produce an ounce at each feeding and he is eating 3 oz. I cried, cried, and cried for an entire week b/c I was so frustrated. I pumped, fed him around the clock, took Fenugreek and Blessed Thistle, spent $125 for a lactation consultant to come to the house, and more. I felt like a failure - and why? I was missing all the happy moments of my son's life b/c I was depressed over my milk supply. I stopped crying and learned to accept that I have tried everything and that is the best I can do. What little he gets from me is just fine. Now I enjoy our routine and can focus more on my son.

People should not beat themselves up over breast feeding and they should certainly not feel guilty about not doing it. Instead, they need to be supported in their decisions. I cried to the pediatrician when I told him my supply was low and I had to supplement. Instead of him telling me to try this or that - he was totally supportive and made me feel better. I think that is what Bea needs right now. Do what makes you feel best Bea!

debating · 12-06-2006, 02:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by KeltoKel

Instead, they need to be supported in their decisions.

I disagree. I will never support quitting.. no matter what it is (breastfeeding or otherwise). I will, however, support those who decide to do the best they can. I have been there, and I know what it's like. Low supply is a VERY real problem, but it doesn't warrent quitting. It may warrent some supplementing, either from a milk bank or formula, but there is NO reason to quit.

Bea, good luck to you. If you ever need BF support or help, I won't be far away. Remember, it doesn't have to be an all or nothing thing.