Frustrated STM!

Steflb

I apologize in advanced if this a topic that has already been discussed. I am posting from my phone and can't seem to figure out how to search the threads right now. Also, this may end up being more of a vent post than anything .

I am a STM who breastfed DS1, but struggled and ended up having to supplement due to low supply. I was heartbroken. This time around, I was hoping and praying DS2 would prove to be much easier to nurse since my body has 'been there, done that', but it doesn't seem that will be the case. I am 6 days PP and already frustrated to the max. My breasts felt very full on day 3 and that was it. I started fenugreek yesterday and no noticeable effect as of yet. We are nursing every 2 hours during the day for anywhere between 30-60 minutes and every 3 hrs at night for the same amount of time. Like all new BF moms, I've slept a total of about 12 hrs over the last 5 days. If BF were going well, I wouldn't complain, but I feel as though it's for nothing. My DH doesn't seem to understand why I am so adamant to BF and he doesn't get that babies nurse constantly in the beginning. He immediately thought it was a sign I'd struggle again. DH keeps saying "don't starve my son". If DS2 is at all fussy after a nursing session, it's immediately "he's not getting any milk". Overall, DH's comments are not supportive and having a toddler definitely adds additional stress!

I do know I AM producing something, but I don't think it's enough. We are on a 'weight check' schedule at the doctor so it's not just in my mind that I think he isn't getting enough. His weight seems to reflect that.

I wish I knew the cause of my struggles. All of the nurses at the hospital said I have 'nursing breasts' so it's not a nipple issue. It has to be something with me since this is baby #2 and I'm in the same boat as the first.

I am going to BF class today and have a personal LC appt tomorrow, but if there is someone who has experienced something similar and can offer some advice or words of encouragement in the meantime, I would appreciate it.

kmos816

I just want to say I'm sorry that your husband is not supporting you, if it's not too late your DH should attend the bf class as well. My DH was a huge reason I had success in the beginning, I would constantly have him check the latch! The LC will be a huge help, I'm assuming the LC will weigh your LO before and after nursing so that should give you peace of mind that your LO is getting enough.
In the beginning my LO nursed every 2-2.5 hours for about 15-20 min a side. I would always detach LO after she was done actively sucking/swallowing as she liked to hang out on the boob. My LC and pedi both helped me in realizing when she was actually done feeding.

Steflb

kkaew816 said:

I just want to say I'm sorry that your husband is not supporting you, if it's not too late your DH should attend the bf class as well. My DH was a huge reason I had success in the beginning, I would constantly have him check the latch! The LC will be a huge help, I'm assuming the LC will weigh your LO before and after nursing so that should give you peace of mind that your LO is getting enough.
In the beginning my LO nursed every 2-2.5 hours for about 15-20 min a side. I would always detach LO after she was done actively sucking/swallowing as she liked to hang out on the boob. My LC and pedi both helped me in realizing when she was actually done feeding.

I should have clarified; it is a BF support class for nursing moms. We actually attended a BF class before DS1. Maybe DH needs a refresher course! I really want to be successful this time around.

surpriseaddition

Make sure you are drinking enough water, and really try to get some more sleep. I know it is really hard with a toddler too, but being well rested (as well as a new mom can be) can also improve your supply. Remember, newborns cry a lot for a lot of reasons. It doesn't always mean hunger. Counting the number of wet/poopy diapers is all you need to do to verify LO is getting enough. It will usually take 2 weeks just to get back to birthweight when BF. In my case with #3, it actually took her 3 weeks, but pedi was happy she was gaining consistently after losing 12% bodyweight. GL!