XP:BM and supplementing.

KMB7

If you have to supplement, did you talk to your dr first? What formula do you use? I was thinking about using the Target brand formula. Why I would have to supplement is because I don't get enough when I pump to keep up with both babies. They have been taking about 4oz from the bottle of bm, I'm lucky if I make 3-4 oz total in one pumping session (remember 2 babies). I'm taking Fenugreek and going to add blessed thistle soon. I eat oatmeal every morning and push the fluids. I don't know what else to do. I return to work in two weeks they will need 3-4 bottles while I'm gone and I will only be able to pump 2 times while I'm gone. Even if I pump in the evening, I don't think I will be able to make enough.

MNheidi

I've ep'ed since the start.  At first, we didn't need to supplement but that soon changed.  We use the Target brand - if has the same reference # as Enfamil which means it comes from the same factory.  Our boys are fine on it and dang, it's nearly 1/2 the price.

doublewhammy

We use the Enfamil Advance with Iron. Our girls are on 3.5 oz per feeding...2 oz of BM, 1.5 of formula. Because we mix the formula and the BM I am able to make a few bottles out of one pumping session and then the next pumping session is all frozen for later. Also, I make 16oz of formula at a time and just keep it in the fridge to pour into bottles as needed. I use this: https://tinyurl.com/49ybd3

weemodin

It sounds like what I was going through.  I'd pump for 30 minutes and would get 2-4 oz.  I even added domperidone.  Didn't help that much.  I have no advice, other than to say I've been there, and it suuuucks.  Providing BM for twins is a tough job.

I had to supplement, and I didn't talk to my Dr. first.  But, when I asked her about generic formula (sorry to say I eventually gave up pumping at 6w because I was miserable and not making enough milk) she said it was EXACTLY the same.  I use the Kirkland brand now for my babies -- it's $18 for two big cans, while Enfamil/Similac is $27 for ONE big can.

 

mnj917

I've been supplementing at night for the last feeding before we go to bed...the boys just seem to sleep better, although they have no problems sleeping all day long.  DH gave DS #1 almost 5 oz plus he nursed prior to that, so I'm thinking he got around 7 oz before bedtime.  That seems like a lot for a 2 week old, but last night was the first decent night's sleep I've gotten since I came some from the hospital.  DS#2 nursed and had 2 oz of formula and he was fine with that.  We use Similac w. iron.  I know the branded kinds are more expensive, but I've got everyone I know saving coupons for me - you can use multiple coupons at the same time at BRU, as long as it doesn't go over the cost of the formula.