Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Breastfeeding Sucks...
So we took Ada back to the doctor today and she has not gained a single ounce since Monday. The pediatrician sent us to a lactation consultant at Kennestone. We met with her and she didn't seem to be able to put her finger on the problem. We bought a breast pump with the instructions to pump after every time I feed her and hopefully this will increase my milk supply. No one seems to be able to pinpoint the problem...the pediatrician seems to think that i need to increase my calorie intake to make my milk richer. I'll try that, but it's kinda hard to get into a routine when we have to spend half the day at the doctor's office every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Everyone always talks about breastfeeding being hard because of the sore nipples (which I don't have...yet), but the emotional toll that it takes on you is a much bigger problem. I have cried more in the last week and a half than I have ever cried in my life. Why isn't my baby gaining weight? Why does she eat for a HOUR and then immediately feel hungry again? Why does she scream for 30 minutes right after I feed her? Why is she having the correct number of poop and pee diapers, but doesn't seem to be getting enough nourishment? Why? Why? Why? I know it's frustrating for Robert to watch because he is basically helpless in this situation, but I have the added bonus of feeling like it's my fault, or that I am doing something wrong. I really want this breastfeeding thing to work out, but I really don't think there's anything else anyone can tell me that I haven't already heard. All I can do is keep doing what I'm doing. Which obviously isn't working. Ugh...for something as "natural" as breastfeeding, this sure is difficult.
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Girl- I could have written this post!! Linc did not gain much weight in the beginning either. Drs put TOO much pressure on the weight gain. If she is peeing and pooping the correct numbers of diapers, she is getting enough milk. I know its hard to see that, and I COMPLETELY understand the emotional tolls Try your hardest to get some rest, eat some oatmeal, drink a beer, take Fenugreek (all of thoes will increase supply, if you feel you need too). A GREAT site is www.kellymom.com (If thats not the right link, google Kelly Mom.)
ReplyDeleteHUGS! Call me or message me if you need to. Keep your chin up, you can do it!
I know you can't help it, but try to cut yourself some slack.:o) Women are our own worst enemies. Do you have a hospital grade pump? That's what I had to use for the twins b/c those really fully empty the breast and trigger you to make more milk.
ReplyDeleteAnd here's a novel idea, if you end up needed to supplement with formula the whole time, don't kick yourself. It isn't rat poison. They make little tube thingies that you can tape right to your boob so that the formula comes out at the same time as breast milk so you still get the bonding experience.
And again....it isn't rat poison. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise. You are doing a good job and it isn't your fault.
Yes, breastfeeding is a "natural" thing, but it's also difficult and emotionally exhausting, particularly if it isn't going "perfectly." I agree with Heather - cut yourself some slack. (I also agree on the formula, but I thought formula was God's gift to me, so I might be biased.) It's not something you've done wrong and you sound like you're trying everything you can. Take it a step at a time and do your best.
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