The Great Breastfeeding Thread

acciovino · July 2014

I don't know how some of you can go without bras! I leak so much I would be sleeping in a puddle!

bluejeanbaby1217 · July 2014

For those of you going back to work, what's your plan for introducing a bottle? I've started pumping once a day to build up a stash. DD is almost a month so I was thinking of trying out a bottle soon so she's used to it by the time I go back when she's 10weeks old. Do you plan on doing one bottle a day? Every couple of days? How much are you planning on giving your lo via bottle?

rachelchristina · July 2014

bluejeanbaby1217 said:
For those of you going back to work, what's your plan for introducing a bottle? I've started pumping once a day to build up a stash. DD is almost a month so I was thinking of trying out a bottle soon so she's used to it by the time I go back when she's 10weeks old. Do you plan on doing one bottle a day? Every couple of days? How much are you planning on giving your lo via bottle?

Thanks for asking this, I was wondering this as well. I heard to start introducing it a couple of weeks before, but it'd be nice to know what others here think too.

mcvgal · July 2014

bluejeanbaby1217 said:
For those of you going back to work, what's your plan for introducing a bottle? I've started pumping once a day to build up a stash. DD is almost a month so I was thinking of trying out a bottle soon so she's used to it by the time I go back when she's 10weeks old. Do you plan on doing one bottle a day? Every couple of days? How much are you planning on giving your lo via bottle?

our church does not have a separate cry room and that's the only place I am not comfortable NIP. So we use that time to give 1 bottle per week. Ds2 will not take a bottle from me, but takes it no problem from DH. We tried the first bottle when he was 2 weeks old.

bchildrn · July 2014

rachelchristina said:

bluejeanbaby1217 said:
For those of you going back to work, what's your plan for introducing a bottle? I've started pumping once a day to build up a stash. DD is almost a month so I was thinking of trying out a bottle soon so she's used to it by the time I go back when she's 10weeks old. Do you plan on doing one bottle a day? Every couple of days? How much are you planning on giving your lo via bottle?
Thanks for asking this, I was wondering this as well. I heard to start introducing it a couple of weeks before, but it'd be nice to know what others here think too.

Our pediatrician had us start one bottle a day now (LO is 3 weeks). She said the earlier the better that way he gets used to both and will not have an issue when I go back to work. I am gonna be home for another 12 weeks but I like that we'll know he'll be ok at daycare and I really like that DH can help and I get a little break.

honeybee434 · July 2014

Is it best for me to pump once a day right after feedings or once a day in between feedings? I don't know what will give me the biggest benefit to build a freezer stash and I read mixed reviews online. Right now I will pump about 10 minutes inbetween one feeding a day and end up with about 2.5oz which isn't building the supply that fast, but maybe that's normal.

MrsCrouch90 · July 2014

@Caitlinrj I completely agree! I take off my bra and I'm leaking everywhere. The faucet just keeps leaking. Bra is on 24/7

stefaniew26 · July 2014

purplekuda said:
Has anyone had a frenulotomy done on their little one. We have had major latching issues and they think it will help. Has it helped anyone here?

If it truly is a tongue tie, have it fixed. We were told by an IBCLC before being discharged my LO had a posterior tongue tie because we were having horrible latch issues.

We saw an ENT she referred us to who said we were told a lie and that a bunch of LCs are pushing posterior tongue ties now.

We were referred to an oral motor therapist. Turns out bc LO was early, she just has weak muscles of the mouth/jaw and needed to learn how to suck. We have been doing certain exercises with her daily and we have had a HUGE improvement!

All I can urge you to do is educate yourself, get a second opinion and good luck!

backwoodsbrunette · July 2014

Unsure if this has been said or not but after breastfeeding, squeezing colostrum out with your fingers and rubbing it on your nipples and letting it air dry works wonders!

Also, I've got a biter!!!! Any advice on this?

LauraMyLove · July 2014

Breastfeedung baby #3 who is 2 wks., and my nips are so sore!! It always starts out this way and it does get better but man...thought I'd have nips of steel by now! I'm using a DIY recipe for All Purpose Nipple Ointment and hydrogel pads.

I also came across this...

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B001SMBRWO/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1406289862&sr=8-1&pi=SX200_QL40

It's a milk saver that you wear on the opposite breast as baby feeds. And I highly highly recommend!! I can't tell you how much milk I have in the freezer as a result of the milk saver. Sometimes, I get very little drippings and other times I get an ounce or a little more. And those ounces add up quickly! I love seeing my freezer stash grow without having to pump. (I'll be doing that soon enough though!) I used to use a cloth diaper for the other breast and that was a mess. The cloth would be so wet at times...and sometimes my clothes would be too. Not anymore! the other thing I LOVE about the milk saver...it offers protection against baby's moving legs and arms as they feed. For me and my sore nips, having my one nip covered by the milk saver feels so much better than it getting kicked and jabbed!!

Sorry for the long message. Just wanted to pass along some info on such an awesome product. Pricey but well worth it!!!

Good luck to all the BFing mamas!!

bluejeanbaby1217 · July 2014

So....I know you can't spoil an infant, but I'm wondering if we are getting into some bad habits. Every night from about 6-11 she's usually awake more and tends to be more fussy, I find myself feeding her a ton during this time, she's eat about every 30min or so, sometimes being latched on for 5min and other times for 20 min. I'm just wondering if I should try to start getting more of a routine with her (she's 4weeks) and try other methods of soothing besides my boob and trying to get on more of a schedule with feedings. I wouldn't really worry about this too much except for the fact that I work two 12 hour night shifts a week and when I got back to work I worry that DH is going to have a really hard time with dd and our 2 year old DS since he doesn't have a boob to comfort her. Sorry if this is a ridiculous post, just wondering what others are doing.

email2ash · July 2014

bluejeanbaby1217 said:
So....I know you can't spoil an infant, but I'm wondering if we are getting into some bad habits. Every night from about 6-11 she's usually awake more and tends to be more fussy, I find myself feeding her a ton during this time, she's eat about every 30min or so, sometimes being latched on for 5min and other times for 20 min. I'm just wondering if I should try to start getting more of a routine with her (she's 4weeks) and try other methods of soothing besides my boob and trying to get on more of a schedule with feedings. I wouldn't really worry about this too much except for the fact that I work two 12 hour night shifts a week and when I got back to work I worry that DH is going to have a really hard time with dd and our 2 year old DS since he doesn't have a boob to comfort her. Sorry if this is a ridiculous post, just wondering what others are doing.

Liam was a bit of a grazer and is getting better. Not to mention how comforting it is to nurse that it would knock him out before he ate enough to hold him over until the next feeding. After talking to LC and Pedi we try different things to keep him awake for a decent feeding and then try to keep occupied for 2-3 hours until next feeding. We've done things like strip him down to his diaper because he gets very snugly and cozy, diaper in between switching sides to wake him up, and rubbing/patting his leg or under his chin as a reminder to stay on track. Things have been going better but it's not an exact science. Good luck with your little one.

kwh33ls · July 2014

Does supply regulate itself? After a few days of pretty painful engorgement, I don't get quite as full. Has my supply just adapted to what I need, or should I worry that it's going away? LO still feeds just as long, I'm just FTM nervous

kwh33ls · July 2014

Thank you so much, @MSUDucks! I had myself convinced that I was going to run out...you set this mama's mind at ease

rheard3582 · July 2014

@LauraMyLove‌ I bought one of those with DS1. I love it. I have an oversupply with both boys. I get 1 to 2 ounces a feeding. Sometimes 3. I only use it during the day. But like u said those ounces add up.

ghostof5letters · July 2014

Could we please just put an end to the cliche term "...like a champ" ?

Use some creativity and think of something else.

TexasGirl81 · July 2014

ghostof5letters said:

Could we please just put an end to the cliche term "...like a champ" ?

Use some creativity and think of something else.

LOL!! @ghostof5letters

Like a boss? Like a pimp?

ghostof5letters · July 2014

TexasGirl81 said:

ghostof5letters said:

Could we please just put an end to the cliche term "...like a champ" ?

Use some creativity and think of something else.

LOL!! @ghostof5letters
Like a boss? Like a pimp?

Really well?

Has a great latch?

Seems to be doing great?

Seems like he picked it up like riding a bike?

Naturally?

Little precious vacuum cleaner?

Sucks better than the Philadelphia Phillies?

Really, anything.

ghostof5letters · July 2014

sharmon1317 said:

I just scored the 100 dollar elephant rug I've been eyeing from babies r us for 9 dollars and a A&A swaddle for 2 dollars. They have great sales going on right now!

Babies R us? I need bottles. I'll swing by there if they're having a sale.

TexasGirl81 · July 2014

ghostof5letters said:

TexasGirl81 said:

ghostof5letters said:

Could we please just put an end to the cliche term "...like a champ" ?

Use some creativity and think of something else.

LOL!! @ghostof5letters
Like a boss? Like a pimp?

Really well?
Has a great latch?
Seems to be doing great?
Seems like he picked it up like riding a bike?
Naturally?
Little precious vacuum cleaner?
Sucks better than the Philadelphia Phillies?

Really, anything.

Sucks better than the Philadelphia Phillies? <----------------

LMAO!!

I love "like a precious vacuum cleaner"

SummerMomma2Be · July 2014

Anyone else cluster feeding at night? DD goes back and forth from one breast to the other for hours. She seems so famished. She eats great during the day and seems satisfied. Why at night does she seem so hungry and unable to find satisfaction? We been having to give 2 oz bottle of formula or breast milk just to top her off and end the cluster session. My nipples are screaming during this time and i just feel bad she can't get what she needs. Any suggestions or similar situations? TIA!

Hilee18 · July 2014

I finally got some milk today only about 5 ml but baby boy only is eating around 10 a feeding so I'm hoping by tomorrow morning I'll have enough for a feeding.

hgtvmom · July 2014

For those weeding out dietary stuff to help their LO, how long after eating something did it effect your milk?

I'm EP, but have a super abnormally fussy baby today, spitting up more than normal. I am using Milk from Thursday right now, but I have no clue what I ate and what milk my meals would be impacting (like, will last night's curry impact my 9 pm pump? Midnight? Today's?) I am thinking of starting a food journal so I know what I ate when.

Lhalliburton · July 2014

SummerMomma2Be said:
Anyone else cluster feeding at night? DD goes back and forth from one breast to the other for hours. She seems so famished. She eats great during the day and seems satisfied. Why at night does she seem so hungry and unable to find satisfaction? We been having to give 2 oz bottle of formula or breast milk just to top her off and end the cluster session. My nipples are screaming during this time and i just feel bad she can't get what she needs. Any suggestions or similar situations? TIA!

THIS! It's driving me crazy!! He falls back asleep after feeding on each side twice for like 15 min per side, and 30 min later he's up again wanting more. Last night I had DH give him 2 oz of formula so my nips and I could get a break, but man is it rough.

Tbags83 · July 2014

I chose "little precious vaccum cleaner" for my question.... My DD is still recovering from her heart surgery and is feeding great orally but via bottle mostly. I was there all day and while I thought she was feeding well via breast, apparently not because she devoured a bottle after I left. If she's still getting my milk I guess it's not a big deal but it still feels like a failure on my part.

This is probably dumb in the long run but I looked forward to that bond and being away from each other is hard and now I just feel like a farm animal being milked...

Eta: not even a question, just venting.

TRyan86 · July 2014

Question for you ladies. Tonight I decided I didn't need to set an alarm since LO Has been waking up before it each time anyway. (Been feed 2-3 hrs during the day and 2-4 hrs at night. BWell once I did this of course she didn't wake up...oops 5 hour stretch (don't hate me!!).

So question is when is it okay to let them go this long, and how will it affect milk supply etc. LO is a month old and has gained a pound and a half on top of birth weight....

reils500 · July 2014

@TRyan86‌ my pediatrician told me I didn't need to wake LO up for feeds when he was almost 2 weeks because he was gaining weight well & passed his birth weight. Some nights he'll go 5-6 hours & others just 2 hours between feeds. During the day I don't let him go more than 3 hours

iris427 · July 2014

TRyan86 said:
Question for you ladies. Tonight I decided I didn't need to set an alarm since LO Has been waking up before it each time anyway. (Been feed 2-3 hrs during the day and 2-4 hrs at night. BWell once I did this of course she didn't wake up...oops 5 hour stretch (don't hate me!!).

So question is when is it okay to let them go this long, and how will it affect milk supply etc. LO is a month old and has gained a pound and a half on top of birth weight....

Once baby is back to birth weight you should be fine to let them sleep at night, unless your pedi tells you otherwise for some reason. Your supply will adjust to your baby's needs.

Eposty · July 2014

cko521 said:
Anyone have nursing bra and top recommendations? I hate the nursing bra I bought while pregnant. So far I only have liked stretchy sports bras and tank tops I can just pull down.

I've been living in Targets nursing tank tops!

MrsCrouch90 · July 2014

SummerMomma2Be said:
Anyone else cluster feeding at night? DD goes back and forth from one breast to the other for hours. She seems so famished. She eats great during the day and seems satisfied. Why at night does she seem so hungry and unable to find satisfaction? We been having to give 2 oz bottle of formula or breast milk just to top her off and end the cluster session. My nipples are screaming during this time and i just feel bad she can't get what she needs. Any suggestions or similar situations? TIA!

This exactly! I have no idea what happened he would eat every 2-3 hours for about 30-40 minutes, and be completely satisfied unlatching in a milk coma. He was gaining about 2oz a day on just boobie milk with no supplementing, his pediatricin was stunned. Now however he will eat for 30 minutes a side and still be hungry and crying afterwards. It's makes me feel horrible that I can't feed him adequately, so now we have to supplement 2-3oz after each feeding.

Oh and he likes to bite down and try to rip my nip off. Anyone else have this problem? My poor nips hurt.

huggabunch · July 2014

MrsCrouch90 said:

SummerMomma2Be said:

Oh and he likes to bite down and try to rip my nip off. Anyone else have this problem? My poor nips hurt.
I'm having the same problem. I don't know what to do. It's very painful. And she tugs in it too.

chrinikki1 · July 2014

TRyan86 said:
Question for you ladies. Tonight I decided I didn't need to set an alarm since LO Has been waking up before it each time anyway. (Been feed 2-3 hrs during the day and 2-4 hrs at night. BWell once I did this of course she didn't wake up...oops 5 hour stretch (don't hate me!!).

So question is when is it okay to let them go this long, and how will it affect milk supply etc. LO is a month old and has gained a pound and a half on top of birth weight....

What ppl said- our Pedi said as long as he's eating great during the day no need to wake him at night. She said this is how some babies sleep through the night before others. Take those 5hrs and get your sleep! Yay!

iris427 · July 2014

So it's really fucking hot having a baby on top of your boob all the time in July. #noairconditioning

Ekg688 · July 2014

Anyone have issues with LO smelling/sensing the milk when you pump? My mom says they can smell it (not sure if this is scientifically proven lol). Whenever I pump I have to go upstairs and shut the door and she still sometimes senses it. It's annoying when DH is at work bc I have to stop pumping and attempt to finish later (which rarely happens.) Anyone else experiencing this?

honeybee434 · July 2014

Does anyone else feel like BF'ing is giving them horrible posture? I feel like my shoulders are always slumped for some reason!

Ecomom17 · July 2014

tundrabunny said:

Any tips for the breast pump? I'm intimidated by mine....

Others have said this, but use lanolin! It hurts like a beyotch if you don't! And don't let it stress you out, just try it and get comfortable with it. And get a good hands-free pumping bra; makes things much easier. And post if you have specific questions.

Ecomom17 · July 2014

hab83 said:

Does anyone find they need to avoid certain foods while BFing so baby doesn't get so much gas? My poor little guy seems to have a tummy ache quite frequently that only settles after lots of farting and popping when he finally gets it out. I tried the gas drops, but they don't seem to be doing much. He's burping fine, too. It's really affecting our sleep since he grunts and fusses all night long while scrunching up his little legs and turning red in the face.

Raw bell peppers (cooked seem fine). And my LO is a noisy sleeper and wakes himself pretty frequently if he's not sleeping in my arms, so...he sleeps in my arms. If you're comfortable trying that, it might help.

Lhalliburton · July 2014

Ecomom17 said:

tundrabunny said:

Any tips for the breast pump? I'm intimidated by mine....

Others have said this, but use lanolin! It hurts like a beyotch if you don't! And don't let it stress you out, just try it and get comfortable with it. And get a good hands-free pumping bra; makes things much easier. And post if you have specific questions.

This could be a coincidence, but every time I use lanolin, I get less than an ounce. If I go without, I get way more. Maybe the pump isn't grabbing on efficiently with the lanolin? Who knows.

Ecomom17 · July 2014

Ekg688 said:

Random vent: Literally was feeding DD every 30-60 minutes from 3pm-10:30pm. She has NEVER done this (at least not for 7 hours). My boobs are so empty I feel like I'm 13. They feel great now, but I'm sure I'll be a milk making machine all night and morning. I'll probably be so engorged tomorrow.

Sounds like she was cluster feeding, which probably means she's about to have a growth spurt so she's making your supply increase, which also means she'll go longer between sessions. Cluster feeding is a pain while it's going on but leads to great things! It drove me crazy with DS1 until I realized that nursing got easier every time there was a cluster feed/growth spurt.