Tonight I took a breastfeeding class and now I have way more questions than I did before taking it. I'm hoping to get advice & info on the do's/don'ts from any experienced moms. I had no idea before tonight about so many things and I'm feeling nervous I won't do things right... I know a lot depends on the baby & both of us have to do our part equally, but I'm wondering how long it took before you got into a good rhythm with your babies? For those who went back to work after, how did you manage things at that point - when did you begin to use a pump/how often etc.? Did you get help from a lactation consultant or breastfeeding support group...would you recommend going that route? Is lanolin cream (or any other product) something I should buy ahead of time? Any other tips or techniques you've found to help? If any other FTM's also have questions about breastfeeding please jump in too! (I don't think we've had a previous thread on this but if there's one out there already maybe it can be bumped up?)
Took us about the first week before it came more naturally. Yes to Lanolin! Or whatever cream you decide, have it handy right away! I had a lactation consultant come to my house once a week to weigh baby, talk about concerns, check her latch etc. It was great so if this is something you have access to I highly recommend it. The reassurance and support helped me mentally and physically. Breastfeeding is a hard job so whatever support there is, take it.
Lanolin: yes! Only one little tube though-no need to get a stock, it goes a long way.
My personal story: didn't take a single class-we figured it out at the hospital together with lactation consultant if we had any questions. My birth center/hospital had the LC available for appointments or weekly at a mom group for any questions and optional weigh ins (if you were anxious about baby getting enough) I went twice to the breastfeeding group-helpful but also just nice to get to meet other moms. took a few days to get the general hang of things, a month to not be uncomfortable, and lots of KellyMom.com research with random questions through the entire year we nursed. It's a changing living process as your baby grows and things change (spacing of feedings, introducing food, night feedings ) Try not to stress mama! You really will figure it out just fine!
Tonight I took a breastfeeding class and now I have way more questions than I did before taking it. I'm hoping to get advice & info on the do's/don'ts from any experienced moms. I had no idea before tonight about so many things and I'm feeling nervous I won't do things right... I know a lot depends on the baby & both of us have to do our part equally, but I'm wondering how long it took before you got into a good rhythm with your babies? about 2 weeks. My son was jaundiced and VERY sleepy.
For those who went back to work after, how did you manage things at that point - when did you begin to use a pump/how often etc.? started pumping to build a freezer stash at about 4 months But never really got a good one. I went back to work at6 months. Did you get help from a lactation consultant or breastfeeding support group...would you recommend going that route? no I didn't, but if you have trouble it is worth it!
Is lanolin cream (or any other product) something I should buy ahead of time? yes...take to the hospital
Any other tips or techniques you've found to help? it's easiest to nurse with no shirt on at first. Spend a couple of days bumming around your house in a cardigan and have no visitors Skin to Skin is so helpful in estabishing that relationship.
If any other FTM's also have questions about breastfeeding please jump in too! (I don't think we've had a previous thread on this but if there's one out there already maybe it can be bumped up?)
Personally, my babies took about a week to get the hang of things and I only used nipple cream twice with my first and not at all with my second. sleeping topless before birth helps toughen those puppies up a lot but for a first experience breastfeeding, its a must. My mother is a licensed lactation consultant and breastfed five babies herself so I had all the help I needed there, but would definitely recommend utilizing your local Leche League or hospital LC as much as possible during the first couple months. I didn't go back to work and have only ever had horrible, milk supply destroying experiences with pumping so I can't speak on that part- and I can say that for me, nursing without a shirt or some sort of support was a dreadful idea- whichever breast not being used would leak like mad. So i used a loose, stretchy nursing bra with disposable nursing pads that I would switch from one side to the other and add the other in if I felt leaky. Experiment with comfortable nursing positions and resist the urge to give up if you feel frustrated- there is so much help available to give you and baby the best shot at a productive nursing relationship! Both my babies nursed until 8 months and then switched to formula, I felt guilty about that for a while but then recalled the sheer amount of work, lost sleep and public awkwardness I endured to have those months, and couldn't be prouder. Keep strong and always follow your instincts- ask for help if you need it and keep open communication with someone you trust about your breastfeeding journey!
Its great that you are doing your research now. However please do not stress. While breastfeeding can certainly be a challenge (both painful and frustrating) it is such an awesome thing! I work full time and was lucky enough to BF for a year with my daughter.
1.) Certainly use lanolin at the hospital and PLEASE use the lactation ladies. It is such a big help in getting a correct latch. Also call them if you need to after you are home. And yes, on the just being topless alot!
2.) It took about two weeks I would say before the pain lessen when she latched and I felt comfortable feeding her outside the house, in public.
3.) And the advice I give everyone, is give it atleast 3-4 weeks and never quit on a bad day. You'll do great and while it can be tough...its the nest bonding experience ever.
4.) Oh and I started pumping around a week post.....I started have DH giving one bottle a day at 4 weeks to get her used to it before returning to work. Then I nursed when I was with her and pumped 3-4 times each day at work. Pumping can be a bitch.....but worth it.
2 random tips... expressing a bit of milk after the feeding and letting it dry really helped me.. also, if you ever get a blocked duct, put a big ol cabbage leaf on your boob and let it sit there in your bra/tshirt. It sounds ridiculous but I swear I had to do this a couple of times and it was the only relief I found
I know a lot depends on the baby & both of us have to do our part equally, but I'm wondering how long it took before you got into a good rhythm with your babies? Everyone has a magic number for when it clicked for them and for me it was 3 weeks. I couldn't get the latch right at first and it was painful as hell. Getting in the proper position is crucial to having a good latch, so make sure you're good and comfortable. Like everyone else said, please utilize the lactation consultants at the hospital, and when you're discharged if you're still having trouble, find a local Le Leche League as those ladies are hella knowledgeable, or reach out to someone that you know that has successfully breastfed.
For those who went back to work after, how did you manage things at that point - when did you begin to use a pump/how often etc.? I actually made the mistake of pumping too early and creating a massive oversupply. I had to pump from the start since my son went to the NICU and not one person told me that when my milk came in that I could stop pumping. In hindsight it was pretty obvious, but as an overwhelmed FTM, I had no clue what I was doing and continued to both pump and nurse. I would pump 12 oz in one session, so it was like I was feeding twins! This time around I'll probably start pumping about a month before I go back to work (after I find a job since we're moving). I'll also pump periodically before going back to work to have a few bottles in case I go somewhere and husband/whoever needs to feed them. Normally, when you go back to work, you'll want to pump about every 3 hours to keep your supply regulated. When baby starts getting older and bigger, you can determine how often you need to pump based off of how often you're breastfeeding them.
Did you get help from a lactation consultant or breastfeeding support group...would you recommend going that route? Yes, this is crucial to successful breastfeeding. I will say though that while I was in the hospital, those particular LCs weren't that helpful for me because I felt like they were always in a rush. They would literally be in the room for a few minutes and then leave. It was frustrating to say the least. The most helpful person was a nurse that we saw the day after discharge when we went in and did a weighted feed. That appointment was soooo helpful because I got reassurance that baby was getting enough to eat. My advice to you is that if you feel like you're still struggling before you're discharged, make sure the LCs thoroughly go over whatever you need. Also as I said above, there should be a local Le Leche League and they typically have Facebook groups with info on when and where they meet. I never went to those, but it was always an option in case I needed it. I know other women who've utilized those groups and not only was it helpful for them to get answers to questions, but also a great way to meet other moms.
Is lanolin cream (or any other product) something I should buy ahead of time? Any other tips or techniques you've found to help? You'll definitely want some type of nipple cream. Your nipples will feel like they've been through the shredder, so a cream and also letting breast milk dry on your nipple can provide relief.
I was thankfully able to breastfeed for 2 years, but the beginning was hard as hell. Please do not get discouraged in the beginning. I would see other women breastfeed their kids and they made it look so easy, so I would feel frustrated and feel like it wouldn't happen for us. Like I said above, it took a solid 3 weeks before I felt like we were in a groove and everything got much easier. However, as I've stated in other posts about breastfeeding, it's majorly important to know that if you've been struggling for a few months and you're ready to rip your hair out and you're suffering, by all means stop and give formula. You'll probably feel major guilt over this, but I can't tell you the amount of stories I've read from other women who legit went crazy trying to unsuccessfully breastfeed and they felt pressure to continue at the detriment of their health. Fed is best. Remember that. Yes, there are assholes out there that might try to shame you for giving formula, but you HAVE to do what's best for you as well for your sanity. I can't stress that enough.
For me, getting in our groove was different for each baby. My first was about 2 weeks and my second was a few days. But with my second, I had a persistent duct that kept clogging and causing severe pain and anxiety..but we made it through that, after a lot of consultations and everbtually getting it unclogged with a small needle at the hospital.
Ive probably scared you more, but if it's any consultation that was rare! And I plan to BF my third. I love breast feeding.
One thing i wish wish I had known that no one told me about was the cramping that comes along with each feed for the first month. This is normal and good even though it can be uncomfortable! It's your uterus shrinking and contracting down back to normal size. It's such a miracle what our bodies do to heal themselves!
Get your lanolin and you only only need one little tube.
I wouldnt pump until maybe 4 weeks at the earliest because like others have mentioned, you'll signal your boobs to make more milk and believe me, you don't want that at first!
I would definitely call and keep in touch with as many LCs as you need! And if you don't like one or didn't get the help you need..keep looking! I went through SEVERAL. I love "lactationlink", she's great and has online classes!
Everyones BF journey is different so DONT COMPARE you and LO to others.
Its such a great experience and precious thing that only you two will share so try not to worry too much and be patient with yourself and lo.
how long it took before you got into a good rhythm with your babies? A couple of weeks. My nipples are not good for breastfeeding apparently (may be TMI but they are small so it was hard for us to get a good latch) Eventually we figured it out together.
For those who went back to work after, how did you manage things at that point - when did you begin to use a pump/how often etc.? I started pumping almost right away, small amounts at first so you don't overproduce as pp mentioned. Best time to start pumping is after the first feed of the day since you'll have lots of milk from the night.
Made me feel more prepared for work when I had a stash in the freezer, which ended up being necessary since my supply dropped when I went back to work (eventually you can get it back up, but the stress and not having your baby around may make you produce less - I used to watch videos of my daughter while pumping and then my milk would let down).
Did you get help from a lactation consultant or breastfeeding support group...would you recommend going that route? I had help only in the hospital from the LC. And actually it was a NICU nurse (my daughter spent 24 hours there) who ended up being the most helpful in getting DD to latch. If there are resources available to you I would take advantage if you need them!
Is lanolin cream (or any other product) something I should buy ahead of time? Any other tips or techniques you've found to help? Yes, that and the pads to prevent leaking.
If you contact Gerber 1-800-408-7277, and ask them about Gerber Nutrition kit, they will tell you it doesn't exist anymore but that they will write down your address and mail some things to you. I just got mine this week, it had a onesie 3-6 month, a coupon and month badge stickers. Also they offered a nutrition consultant to call. Mine just called, granted it's late because they tell you what eat 2nd and 3rd trimester. But she offered to call again a month after baby is due to discuss baby's nutrition, breast feeding and/or formula as well as samples and/or coupons.
Thank you all SO much for all the advice, this is super helpful!!! Helps make me feel better also knowing that even if I do struggle at first to not get discouraged and to know there's so many resources & tools out there to help! ❤️❤️❤️
Thank you so much for starting this thread @serenity13 ! I took a BF class on Tuesday and honestly walked out more overwhelmed than anything. I had always heard that BF is really hard but I couldn't really grasp why.... The naive FTM is showing over here. I never realized just how many variables can go into successful BF. Thanks ladies for sharing all of your expertise!
@EALasagna45@serenity13 of course! As everyone said there are resources to tap / reach out to if you're still struggling. Plus I'm sure there will still be moms here or on FB that will be more than willing to answer questions that you have
Lots of great advice here, so I won't bother repeating it. But here's what helped me a ton:
Bought a baby scale (about $40) so I could do my weighed feedings at home anytime - did wonders for my peace of mind. SCALE
Having a trusted network of mom friends to talk to, ask questions and just feel "understood"
La Leche League - website and local meeting was huge for me.
And the most important thing... the more time you have baby at the breast, the better your chances of success. Nothing establishes supply like baby on the nip. If that means you're topless the first few weeks, if that means you can't have a lot of visitors early on, so be it - you'll fall into a routine and it'll be second nature.
ETA: I started pumping in the hospital. I wanted a big freezer stash and wasn't trying to avoid an oversupply. Went back to work around 6 months, pumped twice a day at work.
Reaing through this post is really making me realize just how much I forgot about what it was like to nurse a newborn. It's giving me butterflies in my tummy. I can't wait to meet my little girl!!!!!
Already lots of great advice, but I will just say a few regrets I had with my first. 1. I didn't see a lactation consultant. Absolutely should have. 2. My milk didn't come in right away and I should have pumped a little earlier. This is what ultimately helped my milk to come in. If your boobs aren't rock hard, your milk isn't fully in. 3. I caved and gave a bottle of pumped milk too soon, 2 Weeks I think.
I went back back to work at 12 weeks and pretty much exclusively pumped after that. That ended up working fine, but I wish we would have had more success breastfeeding. It's hard! Don't beat yourself up if it doesn't go as smoothly as you imagined.
Warning
No formatter is installed for the format bbhtml
Hmmm for some reason I'm not nervous about BF. Maybe I've heard so many horror stories at this point I figure the first month will be tough & have very low expectations. So, keep this thread going, my expectations low, etc.
Fed is best so if I have to pump and bottle feed in the meantime so be it.
Already lots of great advice, but I will just say a few regrets I had with my first. 1. I didn't see a lactation consultant. Absolutely should have. 2. My milk didn't come in right away and I should have pumped a little earlier. This is what ultimately helped my milk to come in. If your boobs aren't rock hard, your milk isn't fully in. 3. I caved and gave a bottle of pumped milk too soon, 2 Weeks I think.
I went back back to work at 12 weeks and pretty much exclusively pumped after that. That ended up working fine, but I wish we would have had more success breastfeeding. It's hard! Don't beat yourself up if it doesn't go as smoothly as you imagined.
? No one's milk comes in right away. It comes in at 3-5 days after birth. (Breastfed babies generally lose weight after birth--normal.) Usually puting baby to breast is better than pumping to get milk to come in unless something else is going on.
My boobs never got rock hard and I had oversupply so that my kiddos poop looked lol green algae and I had to start blockfeeding , lol.
I think Your post is great though became it shows how everyone's experience really is different. It can be hard. So much of breastfeeding at first is just troubleshooting until you get it right. And going back to work really does add extra levels of difficulty.
Good for you for exclusively pumping though! It is twice as hard as just nursing and takes real commitment. People don't know untiltheyve had to do it how much work it really is.
My two cents is that it can be HARD! We saw a lactation consultant in the hospital every day we were there and went to BF support groups after we got home. Ultimately we needed to use a nipple shield for a few months while she learned. It sucked and was a nuisance at the time - annoying for travel, difficult to keep clean, and takes longer to nurse, but one day around 3 months DD ripped it off and never looked back. She BF'd until she was like 22 months and I'm so glad we both stuck it out and persevered in the long run.
Hopefully it will be easier this time,but if not at least I'll be prepared.
DD also never had formula and I traveled a ton for work and was so obsessed with pumping and making sure I he enough and pumping while away. sending home with dry ice, etc. It was pretty stressful, and in retrospect it wouldn't have been a big deal for her to have formula here and there when I was away.
@longliveregina - Totally agree: everybody's BFing story and experience is so different and I think that's part of what makes it so difficult. My DD who was already a low birth weight ended up losing almost a whole pound in the first few days and they threatened to put her back in the hospital. It made me feel like a failure and terrible mother for not realizing I was starving my new baby. That's why I gave the warning about your milk not coming in. Hope this helps just 1 person who runs into a similar type of experience. Bottom line if your having troubles or just generally confused, reach out to an expert. I feel like it really could have made a bad experience much better for me.
Warning
No formatter is installed for the format bbhtml
Yes to so many of the PP. We didn't take a breastfeeding class and the only advice that I got was to have medela lanolin on tap.
In the hospital, one of my nurses was a lactation consultant. I valued only her opinion and just did my best with the other nurses who manhandled my boobs.
It took probably 2 months for it to be completely normal. My milk came in about the 3rd day. My son was slightly jaundice and nursing was his remedy. ... I felt like we were getting the hang of it and then one nipple just started hurting terribly, healed, and then the other had issues. I watched YouTube videos for strategies on the right angle for him to latch at.
... Ultimately, I loved nursing my son. I began weaning after he turned a year and transitioned for about 3 months and ended when he was 15 months.
For this child I prayed, and the Lord has granted me my petition that I made to him. 1 Samuel 1:27 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I have more to add but I didn't want to forget that there is a FB group called Breast Bottle and Beyond. They have actual LC's that are a part of the group
This may be a stupid question but once you've left the hospital do you have to pay for a LC? I had a really hard time with BF DD and I'm hoping for better success this time and I'm looking to have resources on hand.
This may be a stupid question but once you've left the hospital do you have to pay for a LC? I had a really hard time with BF DD and I'm hoping for better success this time and I'm looking to have resources on hand.
Good question! Pretty sure Facebook groups and the consultants working with La Leche Leagues at least are free of course, but I don't know if lactation consultants get paid by the hospital they work for or by you- might be worth asking around about or simply seeking information via the web
This may be a stupid question but once you've left the hospital do you have to pay for a LC? I had a really hard time with BF DD and I'm hoping for better success this time and I'm looking to have resources on hand.
There are LCs at most pediatrician offices. I was able to schedule appointments with ours. They're billed as a non-well-visit to insurance, so I had a copay and had to pay some percentage out of pocket, based on my insurance policy.
This may be a stupid question but once you've left the hospital do you have to pay for a LC? I had a really hard time with BF DD and I'm hoping for better success this time and I'm looking to have resources on hand.
Mine had open free group weekly sessions you could attend, and insisted ppl call her with any questions! Not sure if there was a charge for a one on one scheduled appointment because i never needed one.
Northside.com has a free online breastfeeding tutorial/class if anyone is interested. Just choose classes and events, and maternity classes and the one labeled breastfeeding-online.
Me: 27 DH: 33 Furbaby: Walther, 4 year old Rottweiler/Coonhound mix EDD: 3/7/17<img
Everyone has such great advise on here! When I started breastfeeding, it did not go well. My babe lost 10% of her body weight before we left he hospital and the nurses were not happy. They made me use a nipple shield. Which did help, but was very frustrating. I really wanted to stop using it so I would try and try to get her to latch w/o it and would watch videos to see how it was supposed to look. I would literally cry after watching the videos cause she didn't do anything those babies did. I started going to the weekly bf moms group at the hospital and those women that went did not help at all. I had one mom tell me that I might as well give up because she had to stop because of the nipple shield made her supply go away. I felt terrible but then I started just seeing the lactation nurse and we went into a room and I put her on w/o the nipple shield to see what advise she could give me on helping and the whole time, she had been latching correctly and i didnt need the nipple shield. So in the end, watching those videos made my experience worse cause those babies in the videos are profession nursers lol so dont be discouraged if the baby doesnt look perfect like those babies. The nurses at the hospital after birth didnt really help either as the pushed the nipple shield on my w/o really helping me try it without it also. I would say the nipple shield probably helped a little but moms have been feeding their babies forever w/o one so if they try to push it on you, I would try your hardest to avoid having to use one.
Re: Breastfeeding Q&A
My personal story: didn't take a single class-we figured it out at the hospital together with lactation consultant if we had any questions. My birth center/hospital had the LC available for appointments or weekly at a mom group for any questions and optional weigh ins (if you were anxious about baby getting enough) I went twice to the breastfeeding group-helpful but also just nice to get to meet other moms. took a few days to get the general hang of things, a month to not be uncomfortable, and lots of KellyMom.com research with random questions through the entire year we nursed. It's a changing living process as your baby grows and things change (spacing of feedings, introducing food, night feedings ) Try not to stress mama! You really will figure it out just fine!
1.) Certainly use lanolin at the hospital and PLEASE use the lactation ladies. It is such a big help in getting a correct latch. Also call them if you need to after you are home. And yes, on the just being topless alot!
2.) It took about two weeks I would say before the pain lessen when she latched and I felt comfortable feeding her outside the house, in public.
3.) And the advice I give everyone, is give it atleast 3-4 weeks and never quit on a bad day. You'll do great and while it can be tough...its the nest bonding experience ever.
4.) Oh and I started pumping around a week post.....I started have DH giving one bottle a day at 4 weeks to get her used to it before returning to work. Then I nursed when I was with her and pumped 3-4 times each day at work. Pumping can be a bitch.....but worth it.
You'll do awesome!!
For those who went back to work after, how did you manage things at that point - when did you begin to use a pump/how often etc.? I actually made the mistake of pumping too early and creating a massive oversupply. I had to pump from the start since my son went to the NICU and not one person told me that when my milk came in that I could stop pumping. In hindsight it was pretty obvious, but as an overwhelmed FTM, I had no clue what I was doing and continued to both pump and nurse. I would pump 12 oz in one session, so it was like I was feeding twins! This time around I'll probably start pumping about a month before I go back to work (after I find a job since we're moving). I'll also pump periodically before going back to work to have a few bottles in case I go somewhere and husband/whoever needs to feed them. Normally, when you go back to work, you'll want to pump about every 3 hours to keep your supply regulated. When baby starts getting older and bigger, you can determine how often you need to pump based off of how often you're breastfeeding them.
Did you get help from a lactation consultant or breastfeeding support group...would you recommend going that route? Yes, this is crucial to successful breastfeeding. I will say though that while I was in the hospital, those particular LCs weren't that helpful for me because I felt like they were always in a rush. They would literally be in the room for a few minutes and then leave. It was frustrating to say the least. The most helpful person was a nurse that we saw the day after discharge when we went in and did a weighted feed. That appointment was soooo helpful because I got reassurance that baby was getting enough to eat. My advice to you is that if you feel like you're still struggling before you're discharged, make sure the LCs thoroughly go over whatever you need. Also as I said above, there should be a local Le Leche League and they typically have Facebook groups with info on when and where they meet. I never went to those, but it was always an option in case I needed it. I know other women who've utilized those groups and not only was it helpful for them to get answers to questions, but also a great way to meet other moms.
Is lanolin cream (or any other product) something I should buy ahead of time? Any other tips or techniques you've found to help? You'll definitely want some type of nipple cream. Your nipples will feel like they've been through the shredder, so a cream and also letting breast milk dry on your nipple can provide relief.
I was thankfully able to breastfeed for 2 years, but the beginning was hard as hell. Please do not get discouraged in the beginning. I would see other women breastfeed their kids and they made it look so easy, so I would feel frustrated and feel like it wouldn't happen for us. Like I said above, it took a solid 3 weeks before I felt like we were in a groove and everything got much easier. However, as I've stated in other posts about breastfeeding, it's majorly important to know that if you've been struggling for a few months and you're ready to rip your hair out and you're suffering, by all means stop and give formula. You'll probably feel major guilt over this, but I can't tell you the amount of stories I've read from other women who legit went crazy trying to unsuccessfully breastfeed and they felt pressure to continue at the detriment of their health. Fed is best. Remember that. Yes, there are assholes out there that might try to shame you for giving formula, but you HAVE to do what's best for you as well for your sanity. I can't stress that enough.
Ive probably scared you more, but if it's any consultation that was rare! And I plan to BF my third. I love breast feeding.
One thing i wish wish I had known that no one told me about was the cramping that comes along with each feed for the first month. This is normal and good even though it can be uncomfortable! It's your uterus shrinking and contracting down back to normal size. It's such a miracle what our bodies do to heal themselves!
Get your lanolin and you only only need one little tube.
I wouldnt pump until maybe 4 weeks at the earliest because like others have mentioned, you'll signal your boobs to make more milk and believe me, you don't want that at first!
I would definitely call and keep in touch with as many LCs as you need! And if you don't like one or didn't get the help you need..keep looking! I went through SEVERAL. I love "lactationlink", she's great and has online classes!
Everyones BF journey is different so DONT COMPARE you and LO to others.
Its such a great experience and precious thing that only you two will share so try not to worry too much and be patient with yourself and lo.
For those who went back to work after, how did you manage things at that point - when did you begin to use a pump/how often etc.? I started pumping almost right away, small amounts at first so you don't overproduce as pp mentioned. Best time to start pumping is after the first feed of the day since you'll have lots of milk from the night.
Made me feel more prepared for work when I had a stash in the freezer, which ended up being necessary since my supply dropped when I went back to work (eventually you can get it back up, but the stress and not having your baby around may make you produce less - I used to watch videos of my daughter while pumping and then my milk would let down).
Did you get help from a lactation consultant or breastfeeding support group...would you recommend going that route? I had help only in the hospital from the LC. And actually it was a NICU nurse (my daughter spent 24 hours there) who ended up being the most helpful in getting DD to latch. If there are resources available to you I would take advantage if you need them!
Is lanolin cream (or any other product) something I should buy ahead of time? Any other tips or techniques you've found to help? Yes, that and the pads to prevent leaking.
https://www.amazon.com/Protective-Food-Grade-Silicone-Portable-Emergency/dp/B01IL8D5HW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1483648367&sr=8-1-spons&keywords=silicone+manual+pump&psc=1
As everyone said there are resources to tap / reach out to if you're still struggling. Plus I'm sure there will still be moms here or on FB that will be more than willing to answer questions that you have
Bought a baby scale (about $40) so I could do my weighed feedings at home anytime - did wonders for my peace of mind. SCALE
Having a trusted network of mom friends to talk to, ask questions and just feel "understood"
La Leche League - website and local meeting was huge for me.
And the most important thing... the more time you have baby at the breast, the better your chances of success. Nothing establishes supply like baby on the nip. If that means you're topless the first few weeks, if that means you can't have a lot of visitors early on, so be it - you'll fall into a routine and it'll be second nature.
ETA: I started pumping in the hospital. I wanted a big freezer stash and wasn't trying to avoid an oversupply. Went back to work around 6 months, pumped twice a day at work.
I went back back to work at 12 weeks and pretty much exclusively pumped after that. That ended up working fine, but I wish we would have had more success breastfeeding. It's hard! Don't beat yourself up if it doesn't go as smoothly as you imagined.
Me: 26 Hubs: 28
Married: 6/6/15
Baby Girl: 3/22/2017
Fed is best so if I have to pump and bottle feed in the meantime so be it.
My boobs never got rock hard and I had oversupply so that my kiddos poop looked lol green algae and I had to start blockfeeding , lol.
I think Your post is great though became it shows how everyone's experience really is different. It can be hard. So much of breastfeeding at first is just troubleshooting until you get it right. And going back to work really does add extra levels of difficulty.
Good for you for exclusively pumping though! It is twice as hard as just nursing and takes real commitment. People don't know untiltheyve had to do it how much work it really is.
Hopefully it will be easier this time,but if not at least I'll be prepared.
DD also never had formula and I traveled a ton for work and was so obsessed with pumping and making sure I he enough and pumping while away. sending home with dry ice, etc. It was pretty stressful, and in retrospect it wouldn't have been a big deal for her to have formula here and there when I was away.
In the hospital, one of my nurses was a lactation consultant. I valued only her opinion and just did my best with the other nurses who manhandled my boobs.
It took probably 2 months for it to be completely normal. My milk came in about the 3rd day. My son was slightly jaundice and nursing was his remedy. ... I felt like we were getting the hang of it and then one nipple just started hurting terribly, healed, and then the other had issues. I watched YouTube videos for strategies on the right angle for him to latch at.
... Ultimately, I loved nursing my son. I began weaning after he turned a year and transitioned for about 3 months and ended when he was 15 months.
1 Samuel 1:27
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
There are LCs at most pediatrician offices. I was able to schedule appointments with ours. They're billed as a non-well-visit to insurance, so I had a copay and had to pay some percentage out of pocket, based on my insurance policy.
DH: 33
Furbaby: Walther, 4 year old Rottweiler/Coonhound mix
EDD: 3/7/17<img
DH: 37
DD: 03/17/17
DS: 12/06/19