Pedi and LC told me to give up!

kiwi625

First-I truly appreciate all the support and advice I've gotten here in the last week or so for my SOS type posts! Huge thank you from me!

I called the Pedi again today to ask for ideas on why DD1 seems to have GI issues with BM but not as bad with formula. They told me we could try Zantac for two weeks to see if that helps, but if it doesn't she would be better off on formula.  

I had also called the LCs to see if they would have other ideas as well. I was dumbfounded when she told me that I should just stop and give her formula. 

It's not that DD1 failing to thrive. If that was the case I would gladly do whatever it took to get her healthy. She just doesn't seem to be having an easy time with eating. She is still gaining weight but not at the rate she had been and she has had green pea-soup diarrhea for awhile now. 

Neither one offered up suggestions for things I could try. Really I was hoping they would give me guidance on how to go about changing my diet to rule out an intolerance but for both of them to tell me formula is better?!  I know formula is fine but, better?! I just feel so defeated. It just doesn't feel right to just give up without trying. I'm so upset now! 

GypsyEsq

FWIW, I think that's a pretty typical pedi response - only a few are educated about BFing and truly supportive but I'm surprised your LC suggested formula.  Did you ask specifically about an elimination diet?  I know you've posted that your husband things DD1 is fussier on BM than formula, do you feel the same?  Do you notice the fussiness at the same time every day regardless of feeding?

If you really want to push through this, and it seems like you do, I'd contact a different  LC and ask specifically about elimination diet options.  GL!

ncbelle

I'm sorry - that's ridiculous advice coming from an LC (from a pedi too but I don't expect as much there sadly).  

It does sound like you want to continue breastfeeding.  Try the elimination diet.  Try cutting dairy and soy to start and see if that helps.

And definitely seek another form of assistance and support!!  Are there other LCs in your area?  

kgauntt

Wow. Get a new LC immediately!

WaitingOnTwoPinkLines

What formula have you tried? It could definitely be diet-related. If you have been trying a cow's milk based formula (& it got better), it isn't as likely to be a CMP intolerance, so I'd start with soy & go from there. I'm not sure if Discordia is still around TB, but she was on a very restricted diet because of her son's allergies, & she might be able to offer some guidance. You might try paging her on BOTB.

kiwi625

Thank you thank you! I will post everything as soon as I can. I'm getting ready to start bedtime routine by myself for the 1st time. I'll get back as soon as I have the girls down.

crunchylove77

Have you started attending LLL meetings?  Even if it's too hard to get to one with the little one's in tow, you could contact a local leader.  They are very knowledgeable and encouraging!

Ardmhs83

I would def. look into contacting a new LC, maybe a new pedi too.  Also contact someone from your local LLL chapter.  Those ladies are soooooo helpful.  If you aren't sure if you have a local LLL chapter you can get on their website.  https://www.llli.org/     Don't give up....just get better help...good luck!