BF bummer

EJChapman123

I am a breast reduction momma, and couldn't get my baby to latch so I have been pumping and bottle feeding (and giving her about 90% breastmilk which I am soooo happy about and proud of)

I went to the lactaction consult today at the hospital and it turns out she has bad tongue extension.  She pulls her tongue back past her gums all the time, making it really tough to latch.  She also has a mild overbite, which compounds the issue. We got her on a nipple shield, but after 20 minutes of nursing on one side, she only got 6 ccs of breastmilk My left (slacker) boob, she wouldnt even latch onto with the shield. 

I am going to keep trying, as she can outgrow these issues and maybe be a stronger more efficient nurser, but what a bummer that I wont be able to transition to breastfeeding most of the time instead of the pump and feed (its double work as I have not mastered pumping and feeding at the same time - side note - is that even possible?). 

If pumping and bottle feeding is all my future holds with this baby, so be it, ill keep it up for her health.  But bummer After all that concern about supply, its a latch issue holding me back...

AnneShirleyBlythe

Have you considered an SNS feeder to keep her at the breast for the majority of her feedings? Just a thought. Also, yes you can pump and feed...it just isn't comfy :-) 

nickelbabi

BFing can be so difficult! The lactation consultant wanted me to pump for 10 minutes after every feeding to get my supply up and I was struggling with it because R wants to be held all the time and only takes one decent nap a day. She suggested I only pump one side at a time and that is much more manageable. I have managed to BF one side, then BF one side and pump ther side at the same time, then finish pumping the other side You could definitely bottle feed and pump one side at the same time. I think pumping is more efficient when you do both sides at once, though, so you might want to buy a handsfree pumping bra. I'm going to be getting one soon. My most productive pumping sessions are in the middle of the night when R is sleeping.

Lisa102304

AnneShirleyBlythe:

Also, yes you can pump and feed...it just isn't comfy :-) 

Ugh, yes it is possible. I pumped exclusively with my older DD and pumped and fed her at the same time. It is awkward and weird, but possible. Especially as they get older and can sit up or lean on something without help.