Breast-feeding

IRR

I was reading some adoption books today and was surprised to learn that women can breastfeed even if they don't give birth to a child.  Has anyone looked into or done this with their children?  Just wondering about any pros or cons.

Thanks. 

 

jackieo1309

I've looked into this some and am still debating trying it. I looked into the lact-aid system a little bit- it looks like there is a small tube that is supplying formula from a bag around your neck at the same time baby is breastfeeding. That way they will continue to suck and stimulate milk production since they are actually getting something out of it. I asked my doctor about it and she thought it wouldn't be a good idea since I already have irregular ovulation and want to get pregnant in the future. But she also didn't seem to think breastfeeding was that important anyway. So I don't really know what we're going to do. It does seem like a bad idea to confuse my body any further than it already is- but I really feel like I should at least try it. I've been looking into getting donated breastmilk too but it seems like not everyone who's selling/donating BM has been tested through mother's milk bank and I wouldn't really be comfortable using it otherwise.

 

(I have nothing against using formula and I know there are plenty of people, especially adoptive moms, who choose that option and have perfectly healthy babies. Since I'm an RD I've been taught for years about the benefits of breastfeeding and breastmilk and it's hard for me to let go of it!) 

Rachel Sonnier

I have talked to a lactation consultant about it and she made it sound a lot easier and less complicated than many of the websites I have looked into. Supposedly she has helped a few adoptive moms in our area to lactate successfully, so I am kind of nervous/excited about the idea, but I want to give it a try. I suggest contacting a lactation consultant in your area who has some experience with inducing lactation, or relactaion.

I was only able to BF DS for a few weeks, bc he had a pretty bad milk protein allergy, and had to be put on hypoallergenic formula...but he is smart and healthy, so I am not against formula either, if it doesn't work out.

In my limited experience, BF is a lot less work than mixing formula and washing bottles. It's low maintenance, you can do it on the go, and its free (besides being good for them too!). However, with all the pumping and the lact-aid thrown in, it might actually be more work. I plan to give it a try and see what happens, but I am not going to sweat it if it doesn't work out. Taking care of a newborn is enough work without stressing about BF too ;-) 

Good luck!! Let us know what you decide!