what is the best route?

cherryghost

I don't work so I'll be home with the baby and nursing throughout the day/evening won't be a problem. My question is this. My husband said he would like to help out and feed baby at night/whenever he could. Is there a need for me to go out and buy a pump (just a manuel one) or do we supplement with formula? I know in the first couple weeks I'll be doing nothing but feeding the baby myself.  Thoughts, opinions, suggestions are appreciated.

bsktbllqt11

I would still get a pump. It's nice to have a stash of milk in the freezer for whenever your hubby wants to feed, or if you go out and would rather take a bottle or for emergencies.

madhatter2003

I'd get a pump and use BM. Formula has it's place, but I made the choice to try and get by without it. Luckily for both kids I could do so....obviously things may come up but if you have a freezer stash of milk then there'd be no need for formula.

christina1776

If you are able, your best bet is to nurse only for 4 weeks, until your milk becomes established, so your baby can give your body the "commands" for supply and help you both get in sinc. I know the night feedings can be hard, but if your goal is to primarily breast feed this is the best time to get a good foundation for it. 

I'd encourage you to talk it over with your DH and together decide what you want.. do you prefer to feed breast milk as much as possible or are you both content with supplementing?  Have you read info on the research regarding the pro's/con's of formula?

If you decide you'd like to pump for night feedings, you need to consider if you plan to get up at all during the night to pump.  If not, you will need to train your body to produce between baby feedings for you to pump ahead during the day.  But that will come after your supply is established.  Do you have a breast feeding consultation service available through the hospital or WIC?  I'd highly recommend talking to a consultant who can sit down with you and address your specific needs because every situation and family is unique.

As for the pump,  I love the Medela Harmony manual single pump.  It is the best of the 3 manuals i've tried.  my friends liked it too.  It is only $30-40 depending on who you get it from. Target stocks a lot of the Medela line, and you can ask any hospital BF consultant.  I use it a lot more than recommended.. it's billed as an occasional use one, but i've had such great success i have no need to get an electric for frequent use, but many do.  it all depends on you and how you respond to it.  If you are not sure, i'd recommend that you try that one and see what works for your family before buying an expensive one if you need it.

cherryghost

Thanks for the suggestions.