I ended up exclusively pumping for my daughter. She had breast milk for a few months beyond a year and I pumped until 10/11 months post partum. The reason we ended up ep'ing is twofold. The first being she was 3 lbs when born. She would not latch and ended up being tube fed for a week or so. She was in the NICU for 24 days. All of that combined just gave me a shit start. The second reason, and the reason I continued, was that I was blessed with an incredible supply.
Routine and a hospital grade pump essentially got me there. In the beginning I pumped every 2 hours during the day and 4 hours at night. I was home without her so that allowed me to get a smidge extra sleep. When she came home she was fed every 4 hours, so I'd feed her and then pump immediately after, leaving enough milk out for the next feed. Rinse and repeat.
Once she was big and healthy enough to get a decent latch, my oversupply was ridiculous and I believe that is why I was never able to nurse. On the bright side I was able to donate a shit ton (think an entire deep freezer of milk and then some) of milk to a milk bank, which in turn gave that milk to other sick babies in the NICU. Breast milk is gold for preemies. They have a hard time digesting anything else and it helps prevent intestinal infections that preemies are prone to.
Ep'ing is tough. You don't get much support. You're kind of stuck between the FF and ebf. Neither group seems to want you. And while most moms are supportive I had a few asshats ask me why I wasn't nursing. My pump went everywhere with me. I was constantly washing bottles and parts. And it was time consuming. Thankfully once my supply was established I was able to pump less. But it was still a lot of work. As soon as I knew I had enough bm to get my daughter to transition to wcm I was done. Lol.
Anyways sorry for the ramble. It was hard, but incredibly worth it to me. It saved money and was the best on my little preemie's tummy.
Tldr; EP for 10/11 mos. Until I had the milk to get her to a year.
TinyAlligator born @ 36w, 3lb2oz, IUGR BabyFlamingo due 11/30/16
My daughter is perfect, no matter how I fed her. It seems like the most important thing in the world, but even now, at 2, it makes no difference how I fed her in the first year. No one's going to ask me when she's in kindergarten.
If you're feeding your baby, you're doing a great job.
This is so true. My DD is 4 and my DS is 1.5...I have NO IDEA how any of their friends/daycare buddies were fed as babies, with the exception of the kids of a few mom friends I met at La Leche League meetings.
@shevaCC it seems to all consuming when your baby is tiny, especially if you're involved in a BMB. It's the biggest deal ever. But now? I wish I knew how much it wouldn't matter now, back then!
Oh man, where to start. I am a huge advocate of breastfeeding. I went into this journey knowing that becoming a parent meant doing everything in my power to ensure I was making the best decisions for my child. For me, this meant anything other than BFing wasn't an option. We literally went through hell and back. I had pain and cracked nipples until after he was 1. Latch issues, exclusively pumping during a 3 week inpatient stay @ 9 weeks + afterwards, oversupply, under supply, clogged ducts, etc. We really ran the gauntlet. Every single minute of it was 100% worth it.
Another proud BFer here! 16 months. I am totally fine with however people (safely) feed their babies. But I am so happy that breastfeeding worked out for us. While I find a lot of support online, IRL it was not always the same case. I found a *few* people very defensive if I mentioned our successful breastfeeding (even though they asked me about it in the first place!) But I guess some people act that way with anything. But a few negative comments can really bring you down when you are an emotional FTM. I had major problems getting pregnant, had a very difficult labor and delivery, and had a very rocky start to breastfeeding. It was HARD. So when it finally got easier, and we made it 16 months, damn it I was proud! I EBF for 5 months, BF and pumped for a few months, then went back to EBF. I had issues with oversupply, clogged ducts, blisters, and my baby had horrible reflux. When my daughter was a few days old, I cried through feedings it hurt so badly. But I learned a LOT and can hopefully pass on a little knowledge, and learn more tips and tricks for this baby.
One thing, if you plan to EBF, keep a can of formula on hand in case of an emergency. I am thankful we never needed it, but it gave me peace of mind.
Awesome Kid #1: Born September 2013! Awesome Kid #2: Due November 2016!
So I had a pretttty traumatic delivery with DD#1 and as soon as I came out of anesthesia the hospital made it seem like I had to make a decision right then about what I was doing. My goal was to BF but in that moment, I was barely staying awake for 8 minutes straight due to my morphine drip. Picking to FF at the moment was the right choice for me and my family. I do wish that they would have made it clear that I could try to BF once my milk came in or once we weaned my meds and I felt more comfortable, but they didn't. I regret never even trying but know that in the hospital, at that moment I made the right decision. I'm way more knowledgeable now and will hopefully be able to BF with LO #2. That's my goal. I don't have issues with FF and if we end up having to go that route, I won't hesitate to do so.
I want to BF. To be completely honest, the cost is the biggest factor for me. I cringe at the cost of daycare and just can't see myself spending thousands of dollars on FF when (hopefully) I'll be able to produce it for free. The problem is, I'm going back to work after just four weeks. I'm not sure of it's even going to be possible to BF/pump with just one month at home.
It might be too early to bring up with my doc, but if I think about it at my next appointment, I'll probably at least ask.
I want to BF. To be completely honest, the cost is the biggest factor for me. I cringe at the cost of daycare and just can't see myself spending thousands of dollars on FF when (hopefully) I'll be able to produce it for free. The problem is, I'm going back to work after just four weeks. I'm not sure of it's even going to be possible to BF/pump with just one month at home.
It might be too early to bring up with my doc, but if I think about it at my next appointment, I'll probably at least ask.
I def want to breastfeed at home and pump at work, but honestly it's difficult enough for me to get my lunch in the office fridge in a timely manner. I worry I'm not organized enough. Will try though!
I definitely want to breastfeed (+ pump at work), I have my own office space and we have good fridges/freezers so pumping shouldn`t be a problem for me. I know that I will be very upset if I cannot breastfeed so i will try my best. I am happy to see some of the resources here, it is a little hard for me to comprehend the challenges and solutions mentioned here but I am sure they will be very helpful when/if I need them. On the other hand, I also know that sometimes BF simply does not work. Especially because of my PCOS, it is known that I might have low supply. Although I was BFed for 8 months, my mom`s milk was not nutritious at all for my younger brother. even though he was getting the breast milk he ended up loosing weight and getting sick. They switched to formula for him and he turned out to be a healthy and smart guy. So I will try not to be too miserable if I cannot BF. Can I ask something about the pumps here or would you guys rather have a different thread for that later ? My friend said that you can get the pump for free in NY through your insurance but I am wondering if it is for everyone or for Medicaid only?
@ZoeFer all insurance companies have different methods of getting your pump. And different pumps they'll cover but it should be covered under any insurance. Mine was bizarre and made me wait to order until after the birth and have a scrip written by my ob or pedi. Some allow you to order before birth
TinyAlligator born @ 36w, 3lb2oz, IUGR BabyFlamingo due 11/30/16
I had gestational diabetes. As soon as my son was born we had to give him a bottle bc his blood sugar was extremely low. He had to continue to receive formula until his blood sugar level normalized. We tried breastfeeding. He and I were a good match and his latch was terrific. BUT...my milk NEVER came in. I drank the teas, and took the supplements, I bakes and ate the damn lactation cookies (which were so yummy), I ate veggies, I ate lean meat, and I drank all the water.
It suck. I tried pumping with the hospital grade pump and could barely cover the bottom of the bottle. I felt like a failure. My kid was failing to thrive and he took over a month to get back to his birth weight.
We both suffered so much bc "breast is best" and bc there was always something more I should/could be doing to make it work.
But you know what? We quickly (after 6 weeks of torture) found out that my son did thrive on $75 a month worth of formula from Sam's Club. He met every single one of his milestone so far and while he is still a little bit we have no regrets from doing what we had to do
This time I will give it a try but I will be quicker to supplement and put my baby's health over my pride and need to do what so many other moms preach is the "best".
@muybueno we buy generic, usually we spend only $100 a month. Plus Target runs deals where if you buy 3, you get a 10 or 20 gift card. Typically we spend under $1000 in the first year (my second and third switched to whole milk around 11 months). Also since breastfeeding is so popular, we usually have friends who will donate their samples.
Those of you who keep saying breastfeeding is free, especially those of you who are working, please keep in mind the cost of nursing and pump supplies (tanks, bras, pump cleaning systems, storage bags, etc.) When I added up the cost with my first, it was like a $10 more. It also implies that your time is a worth nothing. It can be inexpensive, but not free.
I plan on BFing because it's free (well, moreso than FFing) and we already have double the cost of everything coming at us, so one less thing to pay for is ideal. I work in healthcare and definitely am of the opinion that BF is best if it works for mama/baby but that said, when it comes down to it - fed is definitely best! I have some samples of formula that are hanging out in case I want/need to supplement at first but once I hit 20 weeks, I plan on going to local LLL meetings to hopefully start to establish a good knowledge base for when the babies get here!
With DS I was so excited to breastfed. I took classes, I bought all the stuff. And then in reality, we struggled with supply. But I didn't want to do formula. I kept trying, took supplements, kept feeding, kept pumping - and got mastitis 3 times. I was sick in bed- my mom had to come back in town to take care of DS. That was when I realized something had to change. I felt so guilty opening up that first can of formula. However, over the next few weeks as I weaned off the pumping so supply would stop, I realized how much more relaxed I was; without the pressure to breastfeed, I was finally enjoying my little boy. I almost danced the day I packed away the breast pump. I plan to try again come November, but I will NOT make myself that miserable again.
Moral to the story: Feed your baby, Love your baby. That is all.
I nursed my son for 20 months, and pumped 3x a day until he was a year. Of course there were issues and it wasn't easy but I loved it so much. I'm so excited to breastfeed another baby.
Me: 30 DH: 31 Married 7/2012 DS born 11/2013 Ectopic , right tube removed 8/2015 BFP 3/2016
I want to BF. To be completely honest, the cost is the biggest factor for me. I cringe at the cost of daycare and just can't see myself spending thousands of dollars on FF when (hopefully) I'll be able to produce it for free. The problem is, I'm going back to work after just four weeks. I'm not sure of it's even going to be possible to BF/pump with just one month at home.
It might be too early to bring up with my doc, but if I think about it at my next appointment, I'll probably at least ask.
I def want to breastfeed at home and pump at work, but honestly it's difficult enough for me to get my lunch in the office fridge in a timely manner. I worry I'm not organized enough. Will try though!
@AmandaR417 it is definitely still possible to breastfeed even if you are only home for 4 weeks! When we get closer to November, look into KellyMom and LLL about how to establish a good supply. Pumping takes work but it can be done!
@whaat chances are your boobs will be all the reminder you need. After a few hours they will be screaming for the pump. Also if you have a separate workspace or desk it helps to keep backup equipment in case of emergency. I always kept a spare set of pump parts, tubes, and bottles in a bag in my desk, which I used on more than one occasion.
I just want to hug everyone. This makes me feel so much better. I want to breastfeed so bad but I refuse to allow myself to feel horrible if it doesn't work out.
These stories are wonderful! With my first, I also struggled with breastfeeding (poor latch, multiple lactation consultants, etc...). I feel like the battle made first month or two of her life sooooo stressful and unenjoyable. The fight to breastfeed totally robbed me of any joy being a first time mom should bring. I wound up pumping for 6months but not exclusively we supplemented with formula. This worked out well for us and our beautiful little girl is so wonderful and so smart! Part of me thinks maybe I'll try to EBF this child but with my previous struggles and now a toddler who demands a lot of attention, just don't wanna miss out on anything or "waste time" feeling like a failure. I also really liked the fact that my husband could give bottles it wasn't always all on me to feed her. guess we shall see!.
For people saying breastfeeding is also expensive, I really don't think it is. I did get nursing tanks and bras, but I actually ended up not needing them. After my boobs relaxed the bras were too big anyways, so I ended up just pulling down my regular bras. Same with the tanks, I just pulled down my regular tanks. The only thing I really NEEDED were the bottles (would also need for FF) and storage bags. For a pumping bra I just cut holes in an old sports bra. Done.
Before I had my daughter, I assumed breastfeeding would be easy, natural and glorious. Nope. I had a none latcher and it proved to be much more challenging than I ever imagined. Pumped for 3 months and switched to formula. I hope to have a better experience this time but not putting so much pressure on myself.
This is my first baby and people have already asked me about this. My feeling right now is that I certainly intend to try to breast-feed. But I have no idea how it will go and I think if there were problems, I would not have issues switching to formula. But I would try it first.
Im a big breastfeeding supporter but I'm a happy momma if baby is being fed. Both my kids got supplementation in the hospital so I could sleep. I grew up against breastfeeding, I was formula fed and always thought that's the way I'd go with my kids, plus the idea of someone other than a sexual partner sucking on my nipples seemed really weird to me. And I always thought of it as a sexual act so the idea of a baby gave me he creeps. I didn't change my mind until halfway through my first pregnancy when my husband said he'd really like if I tried it because it was a big deal to him but that he'd support me either way. I did plenty of research and got on board with giving it a shot and I loved it. I fed both my sons for about a year and plan to do the same for this one. Long story short, even if it kind of gives you the willies or doent seem like your thing, you may surprise yourself if you give it a try.
For mommas who want to "try" breastfeeding. Good for you! Great for making that first decision. With that said, it's not easy for everyone. It certainly wasn't for me and if I just would have "tried" and not worked at it, sought out lactation consultants, researched, etc, it wouldn't have worked. I really had to go in with the mindset that there was no other option. For me, there wasn't. The best advice I ever received was "don't quit on your worst day".
For mommas who want to "try" breastfeeding. Good for you! Great for making that first decision. With that said, it's not easy for everyone. It certainly wasn't for me and if I just would have "tried" and not worked at it, sought out lactation consultants, researched, etc, it wouldn't have worked. I really had to go in with the mindset that there was no other option. For me, there wasn't. The best advice I ever received was "don't quit on your worst day".
This is great for some. But I feel like the "there is no other option" is a really dangerous thing to say. I know a number of moms who thought this way and it added to their ppd.
TinyAlligator born @ 36w, 3lb2oz, IUGR BabyFlamingo due 11/30/16
For mommas who want to "try" breastfeeding. Good for you! Great for making that first decision. With that said, it's not easy for everyone. It certainly wasn't for me and if I just would have "tried" and not worked at it, sought out lactation consultants, researched, etc, it wouldn't have worked. I really had to go in with the mindset that there was no other option. For me, there wasn't. The best advice I ever received was "don't quit on your worst day".
This attitude is also how you can end up with dehydrated or hypernitraemic or hypoglycaemic babies - moms so refusing to allow any supplementation in the face of breastfeeding difficulties while their babies starve. Or, as in my case, really excessively long hospital stays for hyperbilirubinaemia.
I was so, so against my daughter having any formula at all that we ended up in hospital for nine of her first twelve days of life when a day or two of formula likely would have helped her eliminate the excess bilirubin in a matter of days. She was so lethargic - which is very common with jaundiced babies - that she just did not transfer milk well. But I was adamant and I refused to allow her any formula and my breastfeeding support group cheered me on. She was so bad off she very nearly needed a blood transfusion.
I am *horrified* by my behaviour now. Horrified. My stubbornness very well could have hurt my daughter. It cost us two weeks of constant blood testing, of nine days being admitted to paediatrics, of my daughter spending every minute not nursing in an isolette under the lights, and having nurses come and go constantly. I had to sleep in a chair for most of her first two weeks as I recovered from a complicated labour.
Formula is not poison. It is not (as I have seen compared before) the equivalent of feeding a baby fast food. It will not cause a mom to be unable to breastfeed if she supplements to get a break, to help her baby clear excess bilirubin, to help keep baby fed (instead of letting her infant starve) if her milk takes a while to come in.
All things being equal, sure, breast is best (by a relatively thin margin in the developed world.) But everything is NEVER equal. The experience and needs of one mother-baby dyad is never the exact same. You overcame difficult things and met your personal breastfeeding goals - good for you! So did I. I breastfed each kid for two years. But I don't act l'm a better mom because of it and your tone in this thread has been awfully sanctimonious.
K.
Son, K, 9 | Daughter, C, 5 | Daughter, M, expected November 7, 2016
Wow ladies. That certainly wasn't my intent and I'm sorry it came off that way. I certainly have never said formula is the devil or anything of the sort. My son was inpatient beginning at 9 weeks for 3 weeks. He had IV nutrition via picc line and prescription formula for another 3 weeks or so after that. I certainly know the benefits of formula and the, sometimes, need. The only thing I was trying to get across is that many mommas are mentioning that they'll "try". That's great! I applaud any momma who makes that first decision. With that said, for many, many mommas breastfeeding is hard and, often times, an uphill battle that takes hard work and determination. So many mommas feel they have to quit because the availability of help is inaccessible or they just are unaware what challenges are normal and what help is available. I just wanted to portray that it may be hard, and that's normal. If formula is the end result or you continue breastfeeding, there are pros and cons to each. My "no other option" comment was my feeling. Had I kept formula in the house or had an inkling in my mind that formula was an option, I would have caved. Not because breastfeeding wasn't working or my baby needed it - those are certainly valid points - but because at 4 AM on no sleep with engorged breasts and a screaming baby, it would have been the easier option. A decision I would have regretted. Never once have I put down those who choose to formula feed. If that's what works best for your family, great. For those who want to breastfeed, I just think there are so many "booby traps" that sabotage that relationship and leave mommas so disappointed in the long run.
For mommas who want to "try" breastfeeding. Good for you! Great for making that first decision. With that said, it's not easy for everyone. It certainly wasn't for me and if I just would have "tried" and not worked at it, sought out lactation consultants, researched, etc, it wouldn't have worked. I really had to go in with the mindset that there was no other option. For me, there wasn't. The best advice I ever received was "don't quit on your worst day".
This attitude is also how you can end up with dehydrated or hypernitraemic or hypoglycaemic babies - moms so refusing to allow any supplementation in the face of breastfeeding difficulties while their babies starve. Or, as in my case, really excessively long hospital stays for hyperbilirubinaemia.
I was so, so against my daughter having any formula at all that we ended up in hospital for nine of her first twelve days of life when a day or two of formula likely would have helped her eliminate the excess bilirubin in a matter of days. She was so lethargic - which is very common with jaundiced babies - that she just did not transfer milk well. But I was adamant and I refused to allow her any formula and my breastfeeding support group cheered me on. She was so bad off she very nearly needed a blood transfusion.
I am *horrified* by my behaviour now. Horrified. My stubbornness very well could have hurt my daughter. It cost us two weeks of constant blood testing, of nine days being admitted to paediatrics, of my daughter spending every minute not nursing in an isolette under the lights, and having nurses come and go constantly. I had to sleep in a chair for most of her first two weeks as I recovered from a complicated labour.
Formula is not poison. It is not (as I have seen compared before) the equivalent of feeding a baby fast food. It will not cause a mom to be unable to breastfeed if she supplements to get a break, to help her baby clear excess bilirubin, to help keep baby fed (instead of letting her infant starve) if her milk takes a while to come in.
All things being equal, sure, breast is best (by a relatively thin margin in the developed world.) But everything is NEVER equal. The experience and needs of one mother-baby dyad is never the exact same. You overcame difficult things and met your personal breastfeeding goals - good for you! So did I. I breastfed each kid for two years. But I don't act l'm a better mom because of it and your tone in this thread has been awfully sanctimonious.
I really don't think it has been sanctimonious. In fact, if anything I hope this thread isn't scaring new moms who want to try breastfeeding. On a whole I think this thread has been extremely pro formula. I think moms should know that someone had a really hard time breastfeeding at first but was able to push through. It's her personal experience on how she got through it. And no, formula isn't poison. I don't see anyone saying that on here, but I think a lot of people want to succeed at breastfeeding for a multitude of reasons.
People get extremely defensive when this topic is brought up. I think everyone has to realize that you don't need to answer to anyone for your choice. If you want to breastfeed really badly and you've decided that's the best for your child. Go for it (obviously if your child is having medical issues talk to your pedi, but make sure your pedi is very pro breastfeeding beforehand so you know they'll work with you) if you want to do formula because it's the best for your family, that's great too! And in that case try and get a pedi who doesn't make you feel like crap about it which I've heard horror stories about from my friend (horrible). But I also think we need to give each other the benefit of the doubt. Just because someone is telling their experience, doesn't mean they're slighting your choice. It just wasn't for them, and that's ok.
@Little+Tiny I am skimming back through older posts so I am not sure if this has been answered yet or not, but my mom (a lactation consultant) has had many patients with inverted nipples who have successfully breastfed. Hopefully wherever you deliver has a lactation consultant on site to assist you.
I ebf both of mine. My son nursed til he was 2.5 amd my daughter weaned herself around 13 months. I'm an RN in a busy l&d unit and it's not easy to pump but I've done it through two kids and plan on doing it again. I am also a lactation educator and am studying for the ibclc exam. Breastfeeding is something that I am passionate about and enjoy talking about. There are so many myths around breastfeeding, too. You'd be surprised how many women are able to breastfeed that didn't think they'd be able to!
TTC since 07/2010
BFP #1 11/10/11 Natural MC at 6w4d
BFP #2 01/23/12 MC at 12w. 2x Cytotek 1x Methergen; Genetic testing found Factor V Leiden and MTHFR. Started extra Folic Acid and Baby Aspirin then Lovenox
BFP #3 07/02/12 EDD 3/13/13 . Rainbow Baby born at 37 weeks, all natural, after 10 weeks of bedrest. BFP #4 ST. PATTY'S DAY 2014. EDD 11/25/14
I'm all for breastfeeding as long as possible. I believe in most cases it's what's best for baby so for me it was a no brainer. As far as what other people should do though I generally only give advice if it's specifically been solicited. If I see a mom having a hard time I generally try to offer support. I suggest la leche league a lot and I know a lot of moms get stuck not being able to produce enough milk so I recommend fenugreek and hugs lol. I'm also a big supporter of eats on feet. I don't really ever recommend formula to someone who is asking my opinion. I turn to eats on feet first and then weston a price's formula recipe there after.
I've occasionally been asked about sensitivities to friends or acquaintances who have found their kids are intolerant to the formula and in those cases I usually just recommend like Earth's Best Sensitive. I don't like to see any baby uncomfortable or any Mama trying to help her uncomfortable baby so the most important thing is just hopefully finding an answer to that.
Sometimes moms have problems breastfeeding and their baby has a intolerance to breast milk (mine did actually!) and then I recommend dietary changes and that usually helps.
In the end of everything though I'm really just happy people choose to feed their babies even if it isn't what i feel best. I'm glad that a lot make it on the formula. There is really a lot of awesome support out there for feeding babies it's almost endless really and I think that's great I'm all for sharing knowledge if I see someone looking for it and trying to help get them set up with whatever can help them best based on their wants and goals for their feeding experience.
I'm all for breastfeeding as long as possible. I believe in most cases it's what's best for baby so for me it was a no brainer. As far as what other people should do though I generally only give advice if it's specifically been solicited. If I see a mom having a hard time I generally try to offer support. I suggest la leche league a lot and I know a lot of moms get stuck not being able to produce enough milk so I recommend fenugreek and hugs lol. I'm also a big supporter of eats on feet. I don't really ever recommend formula to someone who is asking my opinion. I turn to eats on feet first and then weston a price's formula recipe there after.
I've occasionally been asked about sensitivities to friends or acquaintances who have found their kids are intolerant to the formula and in those cases I usually just recommend like Earth's Best Sensitive. I don't like to see any baby uncomfortable or any Mama trying to help her uncomfortable baby so the most important thing is just hopefully finding an answer to that.
Sometimes moms have problems breastfeeding and their baby has a intolerance to breast milk (mine did actually!) and then I recommend dietary changes and that usually helps.
In the end of everything though I'm really just happy people choose to feed their babies even if it isn't what i feel best. I'm glad that a lot make it on the formula. There is really a lot of awesome support out there for feeding babies it's almost endless really and I think that's great
Except when it comes to whether one should terminate a pregnancy or not.
For mommas who want to "try" breastfeeding. Good for you! Great for making that first decision. With that said, it's not easy for everyone. It certainly wasn't for me and if I just would have "tried" and not worked at it, sought out lactation consultants, researched, etc, it wouldn't have worked. I really had to go in with the mindset that there was no other option. For me, there wasn't. The best advice I ever received was "don't quit on your worst day".
(Note: this isn't directed at you argumentatively. Your comment just inspired this little rant...)
Speaking for myself here, but as a "I want to try" member, the point of that mindset is to avoid all that stress you were willing to endure. I feel like there are going to be too many other things for me to handle, I don't want to add to the struggle, especially as a FTM without a big network of support.
Personally, I tend to be really sensitive to feeling like failure if I didn't do something just the way I think I should. That's why I'm trying to be super open-minded and flexible when it comes to certain issues with the baby, including how I will be able to feed him. Being dead-set on a certain goal isn't for everyone.
I'm all for breastfeeding as long as possible. I believe in most cases it's what's best for baby so for me it was a no brainer. As far as what other people should do though I generally only give advice if it's specifically been solicited. If I see a mom having a hard time I generally try to offer support. I suggest la leche league a lot and I know a lot of moms get stuck not being able to produce enough milk so I recommend fenugreek and hugs lol. I'm also a big supporter of eats on feet. I don't really ever recommend formula to someone who is asking my opinion. I turn to eats on feet first and then weston a price's formula recipe there after.
I've occasionally been asked about sensitivities to friends or acquaintances who have found their kids are intolerant to the formula and in those cases I usually just recommend like Earth's Best Sensitive. I don't like to see any baby uncomfortable or any Mama trying to help her uncomfortable baby so the most important thing is just hopefully finding an answer to that.
Sometimes moms have problems breastfeeding and their baby has a intolerance to breast milk (mine did actually!) and then I recommend dietary changes and that usually helps.
In the end of everything though I'm really just happy people choose to feed their babies even if it isn't what i feel best. I'm glad that a lot make it on the formula. There is really a lot of awesome support out there for feeding babies it's almost endless really and I think that's great I'm all for sharing knowledge if I see someone looking for it and trying to help get them set up with whatever can help them best based on their wants and goals for their feeding experience.
Not to feed the troll, but I skimmed through the Weston A Price website and those "formula recipes" (and I use that term loosely) made me shudder. I feel like any paediatrician worth his/her salt would be horrified if you brought them those recipes and said you were going to feed them to any child, let alone a newborn.
Any baby that is not a starving baby will be a happy (ish) one. Whether you accomplish that through EBF, commercial formula or a combination of the two, so long as the belly is full who really cares how it got that way as long as it was safe and age appropriate?
Re: Feeding babies
Routine and a hospital grade pump essentially got me there. In the beginning I pumped every 2 hours during the day and 4 hours at night. I was home without her so that allowed me to get a smidge extra sleep. When she came home she was fed every 4 hours, so I'd feed her and then pump immediately after, leaving enough milk out for the next feed. Rinse and repeat.
Once she was big and healthy enough to get a decent latch, my oversupply was ridiculous and I believe that is why I was never able to nurse. On the bright side I was able to donate a shit ton (think an entire deep freezer of milk and then some) of milk to a milk bank, which in turn gave that milk to other sick babies in the NICU. Breast milk is gold for preemies. They have a hard time digesting anything else and it helps prevent intestinal infections that preemies are prone to.
Ep'ing is tough. You don't get much support. You're kind of stuck between the FF and ebf. Neither group seems to want you. And while most moms are supportive I had a few asshats ask me why I wasn't nursing. My pump went everywhere with me. I was constantly washing bottles and parts. And it was time consuming. Thankfully once my supply was established I was able to pump less. But it was still a lot of work. As soon as I knew I had enough bm to get my daughter to transition to wcm I was done. Lol.
Anyways sorry for the ramble. It was hard, but incredibly worth it to me. It saved money and was the best on my little preemie's tummy.
Tldr; EP for 10/11 mos. Until I had the milk to get her to a year.
We literally went through hell and back. I had pain and cracked nipples until after he was 1. Latch issues, exclusively pumping during a 3 week inpatient stay @ 9 weeks + afterwards, oversupply, under supply, clogged ducts, etc. We really ran the gauntlet.
Every single minute of it was 100% worth it.
One thing, if you plan to EBF, keep a can of formula on hand in case of an emergency. I am thankful we never needed it, but it gave me peace of mind.
Awesome Kid #2: Due November 2016!
3/6/16 BFP
EDD: 11/14/16
It might be too early to bring up with my doc, but if I think about it at my next appointment, I'll probably at least ask.
Me: 26 DH:27
Due: 11/6/2016
On the other hand, I also know that sometimes BF simply does not work. Especially because of my PCOS, it is known that I might have low supply. Although I was BFed for 8 months, my mom`s milk was not nutritious at all for my younger brother. even though he was getting the breast milk he ended up loosing weight and getting sick. They switched to formula for him and he turned out to be a healthy and smart guy. So I will try not to be too miserable if I cannot BF.
Can I ask something about the pumps here or would you guys rather have a different thread for that later ? My friend said that you can get the pump for free in NY through your insurance but I am wondering if it is for everyone or for Medicaid only?
Mine was bizarre and made me wait to order until after the birth and have a scrip written by my ob or pedi. Some allow you to order before birth
I had gestational diabetes. As soon as my son was born we had to give him a bottle bc his blood sugar was extremely low. He had to continue to receive formula until his blood sugar level normalized. We tried breastfeeding. He and I were a good match and his latch was terrific. BUT...my milk NEVER came in. I drank the teas, and took the supplements, I bakes and ate the damn lactation cookies (which were so yummy), I ate veggies, I ate lean meat, and I drank all the water.
It suck. I tried pumping with the hospital grade pump and could barely cover the bottom of the bottle. I felt like a failure. My kid was failing to thrive and he took over a month to get back to his birth weight.
We both suffered so much bc "breast is best" and bc there was always something more I should/could be doing to make it work.
But you know what? We quickly (after 6 weeks of torture) found out that my son did thrive on $75 a month worth of formula from Sam's Club. He met every single one of his milestone so far and while he is still a little bit we have no regrets from doing what we had to do
This time I will give it a try but I will be quicker to supplement and put my baby's health over my pride and need to do what so many other moms preach is the "best".
I felt so guilty opening up that first can of formula. However, over the next few weeks as I weaned off the pumping so supply would stop, I realized how much more relaxed I was; without the pressure to breastfeed, I was finally enjoying my little boy. I almost danced the day I packed away the breast pump.
I plan to try again come November, but I will NOT make myself that miserable again.
Moral to the story: Feed your baby, Love your baby. That is all.
[url=http://www.thebump.com/?utm_source=ticker&utm_medium=UBB&utm_campaign=tickers]
[url=http://www.thebump.com/?utm_source=ticker&utm_medium=UBB&utm_campaign=tickers]
Married 7/2012
DS born 11/2013
Ectopic , right tube removed 8/2015
BFP 3/2016
@AmandaR417 it is definitely still possible to breastfeed even if you are only home for 4 weeks! When we get closer to November, look into KellyMom and LLL about how to establish a good supply. Pumping takes work but it can be done!
@whaat chances are your boobs will be all the reminder you need. After a few hours they will be screaming for the pump. Also if you have a separate workspace or desk it helps to keep backup equipment in case of emergency. I always kept a spare set of pump parts, tubes, and bottles in a bag in my desk, which I used on more than one occasion.
There red were a few challenges in the beginning with plugged ducts (ouch) and then biting during teething, but it was an amazing experience.
I plan to nurse this one for as long as he/she wants.
Also agree that kellymom is the best resource!!!
The best advice I ever received was "don't quit on your worst day".
I was so, so against my daughter having any formula at all that we ended up in hospital for nine of her first twelve days of life when a day or two of formula likely would have helped her eliminate the excess bilirubin in a matter of days. She was so lethargic - which is very common with jaundiced babies - that she just did not transfer milk well. But I was adamant and I refused to allow her any formula and my breastfeeding support group cheered me on. She was so bad off she very nearly needed a blood transfusion.
I am *horrified* by my behaviour now. Horrified. My stubbornness very well could have hurt my daughter. It cost us two weeks of constant blood testing, of nine days being admitted to paediatrics, of my daughter spending every minute not nursing in an isolette under the lights, and having nurses come and go constantly. I had to sleep in a chair for most of her first two weeks as I recovered from a complicated labour.
Formula is not poison. It is not (as I have seen compared before) the equivalent of feeding a baby fast food. It will not cause a mom to be unable to breastfeed if she supplements to get a break, to help her baby clear excess bilirubin, to help keep baby fed (instead of letting her infant starve) if her milk takes a while to come in.
All things being equal, sure, breast is best (by a relatively thin margin in the developed world.) But everything is NEVER equal. The experience and needs of one mother-baby dyad is never the exact same. You overcame difficult things and met your personal breastfeeding goals - good for you! So did I. I breastfed each kid for two years. But I don't act l'm a better mom because of it and your tone in this thread has been awfully sanctimonious.
Son, K, 9 | Daughter, C, 5 | Daughter, M, expected November 7, 2016
My son was inpatient beginning at 9 weeks for 3 weeks. He had IV nutrition via picc line and prescription formula for another 3 weeks or so after that. I certainly know the benefits of formula and the, sometimes, need.
The only thing I was trying to get across is that many mommas are mentioning that they'll "try". That's great! I applaud any momma who makes that first decision. With that said, for many, many mommas breastfeeding is hard and, often times, an uphill battle that takes hard work and determination. So many mommas feel they have to quit because the availability of help is inaccessible or they just are unaware what challenges are normal and what help is available. I just wanted to portray that it may be hard, and that's normal. If formula is the end result or you continue breastfeeding, there are pros and cons to each.
My "no other option" comment was my feeling. Had I kept formula in the house or had an inkling in my mind that formula was an option, I would have caved. Not because breastfeeding wasn't working or my baby needed it - those are certainly valid points - but because at 4 AM on no sleep with engorged breasts and a screaming baby, it would have been the easier option. A decision I would have regretted.
Never once have I put down those who choose to formula feed. If that's what works best for your family, great. For those who want to breastfeed, I just think there are so many "booby traps" that sabotage that relationship and leave mommas so disappointed in the long run.
People get extremely defensive when this topic is brought up. I think everyone has to realize that you don't need to answer to anyone for your choice. If you want to breastfeed really badly and you've decided that's the best for your child. Go for it (obviously if your child is having medical issues talk to your pedi, but make sure your pedi is very pro breastfeeding beforehand so you know they'll work with you) if you want to do formula because it's the best for your family, that's great too! And in that case try and get a pedi who doesn't make you feel like crap about it which I've heard horror stories about from my friend (horrible). But I also think we need to give each other the benefit of the doubt. Just because someone is telling their experience, doesn't mean they're slighting your choice. It just wasn't for them, and that's ok.
I've occasionally been asked about sensitivities to friends or acquaintances who have found their kids are intolerant to the formula and in those cases I usually just recommend like Earth's Best Sensitive. I don't like to see any baby uncomfortable or any Mama trying to help her uncomfortable baby so the most important thing is just hopefully finding an answer to that.
Sometimes moms have problems breastfeeding and their baby has a intolerance to breast milk (mine did actually!) and then I recommend dietary changes and that usually helps.
In the end of everything though I'm really just happy people choose to feed their babies even if it isn't what i feel best. I'm glad that a lot make it on the formula. There is really a lot of awesome support out there for feeding babies it's almost endless really and I think that's great
Take notes ladies.
Speaking for myself here, but as a "I want to try" member, the point of that mindset is to avoid all that stress you were willing to endure. I feel like there are going to be too many other things for me to handle, I don't want to add to the struggle, especially as a FTM without a big network of support.
Personally, I tend to be really sensitive to feeling like failure if I didn't do something just the way I think I should. That's why I'm trying to be super open-minded and flexible when it comes to certain issues with the baby, including how I will be able to feed him. Being dead-set on a certain goal isn't for everyone.
Any baby that is not a starving baby will be a happy (ish) one. Whether you accomplish that through EBF, commercial formula or a combination of the two, so long as the belly is full who really cares how it got that way as long as it was safe and age appropriate?