I have had many breastfeeding issues, and have made the choice to start supplementing here soon with formula. Now, I still want to breastfeed about half of the feedings, so perhaps 4 times a day. I have a breast pump and don't mind pumping for some of the feedings, also it would be good to keep a supply going. I would mainly like to formula feed during the evenings, especially so DH can feed her and she can stay full longer. Can someone propose a feeding schedule that would accomodate this? I am a little confused as how to fit the different feedings in and if and when I should be pumping, etc. Any advice on supplementing is welcomed as well. TIA
Re: Breastmilk & Formula
Did you get really engorged? How did you adjust to the change in demand?
When I had to supplement, I pumped every time she had a bottle. Eventually my supply was good enough that I could go back to ebf.
Some moms give them both breasts first and then offer a bottle at the end if they are still hungry.
If you want to keep up your supply, you should either breastfeed or pump at least 8 times a day.
If you want to get back to full time breastfeeding, you might consider meeting with a lactation consultant for some help - if you haven't already.
I give LO breast milk during the day and formula at night. He gets formula for his bedtime feeding, the middle of the night feedings (1 or 2 times), and sometimes the feeding when he wakes up but not all the time.
Try to pump every 3 hours. I pump every three hours during the day and then at night I usually go 6. It is not the best, but I like my sleep.
I tried so hard to breast feed. It just wasn't in the cards for us. Kudos to those that can. :
My challenge at the moment is just trying to increase my milk supply so that hopefully I can drop the formula.