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I need HELP!!

luckylady55luckylady55
in Breastfeeding

I am desperately trying to BF my DS, but I am experiencing lots of issues.  I could really use some suggestions.  DS was born on 12/16, he spent 8 days in the NICU and the first 4 I didn't get to BF him.  He had an NG tube, I was puming to give him bm in the tube, and while there I had enough but when he went to full feedings I really did not have enough to get him through the night.  I continued to pump and continued to try and pump throughout the night but my puming sessions during the day dwindled because I was overwhelmed with trying to BF him and pump in between. 

 My supply never really seemed to come in.  I was able to get a new pump through my insurance and now I am trying desperately to increase my supply with little success.  I tried taking the Motherlove supplements but my son still has liver issues and right after I started on the supplements his numbers started getting wonky so I am afraid its messing with his liver.  In fact I am really afraid of anything that might interfere with his liver.  I am trying to figure this whole BF and pumping throughout the day.  This week when we went into the dr. DS had only gained an ounce in 9 days, I then was told by the ped that I should be BF every 90 minutes.  Started trying that today and it just made him and I frustrated.  My milk did not let down every time and while I can had express milk continuously he seemd to have a hard time getting enough, or we had where he would start to eat and then promptly go to sleep hafter only feeding about 5-8 minutes on one side. 

How am I supposed to start pumping and keep enough milk for him.  The one time I pumped I only got an ounce but that was after he had eaten in the morning.  Then his next feeding an hour later was a disaster. Any adivce would be appreciated?

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Re: I need HELP!!

  • tarahnpaultarahnpaul

    Newborns will always fall asleep while they are eating.  I just kept DD on the breast almost continually.  I felt like I never got off the couch.  Hours and hours of baby sleeping and nursing and sleeping and nursing.  Even the suckling they do while sleeping is helping stimulate your milk.  The best way to increase supply is by nursing, not necessarily by pumping.

    I would get to a good LC now.  They can do some weighed feedings, check his latch, and suggest some herbs and/or drugs for your supply.  You need to get in asap though b/c these first weeks are critical in establishing supply. Good luck, I hope things start going well for you!

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  • Kell+bellKell+bell
    First take a deep breath and try not to panic.  I would try to find a lactation consultant or someone experienced who can sit with you for one or several nursing sessions and help.  Some people have luck with Mother's Milk cookies, types of tea or other supplements.  I think the website KellyMom lists them.  That website has lots of advice.  I hope you can find someone to help you and that breastfeeding works out for you.  But remember, the important thing is for you and your son to be happy and healthy.  And that means mom not being miserable and panicked.  If you do have to supplement with formula in the end, or even stop BF, please do not beat yourself up.  You are a good mommy and it is very hard to have a preemie.  GL to you.
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