New to BF need some help please

amethyst Rose

My daughter is five days old and I have been BFing almost exclusively, she was severely tongue tied so we had latching issues, and I ended up giving her formula a few times because BFing hurt so much. She got her tongue clipped a couple days ago and we were doing well until last night, now she fights latching on for a few minutes, but she does always eventually latch and she feeds well. Is this fighting normal? Is there anything I can do to help her latch quicker?

Indiechixor

I would say you have to be more patient than she is. My son had to use a nipple shield, and he would generally fight it at first for several minutes, then once he became hungry enough he would give in.

It's not uncommon for babies not to latch right away, but don't be afraid to re-position her or re-latch her if it hurts... break the seal and try again until it doesn't hurt. 

Kell+bell

I know it's so frustrating and exhausting.  Both my babies were preemies and it took them 3-4 weeks to get BF.  But once they did, they were pros and nursed for 1 year+. At only five days - especially with her issues - I'd say her latch issues are to be expected.  She will get it down, and soon.  Just keep working with her.  Newborns are slow nursers and they go off an on the breast a lot.  If you are worried about her latch, you can always consult a lactation consultant.  That's what they are there for.  Just take a deep breath, take it one day at a time, and know that it will all come together at some point.  Good luck mama - you're doing awesome!

mbowersock

I feel for you. It took us quite some time and I feel like just now we are mastering latching. A strategy I used and found successful was to put a little formula on your nipple and then hold your breast like a sandwhich and (basically) shove in the baby's mouth. This worked for my daughter because she immediately tasted something on the nipple rather then having to work for it. Eventually you won't need to use this strategy. Hope it helps!

ashes1010

My twins were born at 38w and one of them didn't really start bf'ing until 7 weeks! Prior to that, I would try to bf several times per day and pump a ton. Sometimes she'd latch briefly and other times she would scream and fight it. It was extremely frustrating and discouraging but I stuck with it. Now both of my twins nurse like pros! Just stick with it and she'll get the hang of it. Go easy on yourself as well. I put SO much pressure on myself and was a wreck at times.