- All Popular Articles
- Popular Articles - Breastfeeding & Lactation - Page 4
Q
Chicago, IL
I attempted to breast-feed with my first child and he never really latched on or was a successful breast feeder. I took a class before my second child was born and with or without connection he was very successful with breast-feeding. I thought about taking another class but I just need a refresher. If anyone can give me any tips in preparing to breast-feed that would be great. I thought I remembered reading not to use soap on your breast before the baby was born, how long before? I also had inverted nipples and used the nipples guard last time before # 2 was born. How many weeks before delivery should I do this?
Any other suggestions or tips would be great.
G.
Read the entire question and 7 answers
Q
Philadelphia, PA
I have been nursing my 5 month old almost exclusively until this week when she started day care. I nurse her right before and right after I pick her up, so that she only has one bottle while at daycare. Unfortunately, they have to give her formula there because I can't seem to initiate the let down reflex with the pump. I used to pump when she was a newborn, but gave it up because of convenience, and never had a problem then. Any suggestions on initiating the let down? I've tried staring at pictures of her, sitting in her rocking chair, and warm compresses. (showering is out of the question, because I won't be able to stop and take a shower at work). I want to keep up my supply so that I don't have to give her a bottle on the days I'm not working. I'm very concerned because I sometimes even have a delayed let down reflex when she is nursing. When I went to nurse her tonight, she got very frustrated that it wasn't coming fast enough...I don't want her to start refusing the breast in preference for the faster bottle. Has anyone else had this problem?
Read the entire question and 13 answers
Q
Chicago, IL
I am exclusively breastfeeding my 4 month old son and am having problems expressing milk at work. I was just home for seven days straight and while home I nursed my son and pumped once a day at the same time to add to my frozen supply. I would get an average of 3 oz per breast (sometimes more on one side). I use the Medela Pump in Style Advanced at home. Now I am back at work and I pumped this morning at the same time using a hospital grade pump in my office (Medela Lactina Select) and I had to fight for 2 oz from each side. I just pumped again and got even less. Since I am obviously not nursing today I figured I would be expressing all the milk my son usually drinks straight from the breast. Am I doing something wrong? Why won't the milk come out? I can tell my breasts are not empty - one inparticular is defintely not empty. Any advice? It is stressing me out which I know is not helpful.
Read the entire question and 19 answers
Q
Harrisburg, PA
just recently my little one started pulling off the breast like he was frusterated at not giving enough. i have been having to supplement lately so does this mean that he is starting to not take the breast? maybe i don't have enough milk. but more than likely it doesn't have the flow that the bottle does. is this the start of him weaning himself? he is 3 months old.
Read the entire question and 12 answers
Q
Chicago, IL
I am breastfeeding my 8 week old and come the end of december i am going out with my husband to celebrate our anniversary. I would like to have some wine and want to know how much i have to pump and dump afterwards if i were to have 1-2 glasses? What are the rules? I don't want to do anything i am not suppose to. Thanks.
Read the entire question and 10 answers
Q
New York, NY
Hi,
I've been pumping since my baby was born. I'm not breastfeeding yet because my son is preemie and he hasn't learned how to suck yet. The doctor says it will be about two weeks until we can try breastfeeding. I've noticed my supply has decreased in the last 3 days. I used to get about 25-30 oz/day, but now only get about 20 oz/day. I really want to breastfeed once my baby is able and am very worried that my supply will diminish before then. Does anyone have recommendations on what I can do or what I can take that will help replenish my supply? Since my son is preemie, I am especially keen on breastfeeding him to make sure he gets beneficial nutrients. Thanks for your help!
Read the entire question and 44 answers
Q
Chicago, IL
My son is 2 1/2 months old and I have been pumping and giving him the bottle for about 1 month now. I wish I could breasfeed him, but my one side produces double the amount of milk and comes out too fast so he chokes and spits up. Here is my question - He is starting to sleep between 7-9 hours at night. Do I need to get up in the middle of the night to pump? I do not feel uncomfortable, I am just concerned that I will not produce enough during the day. Any advice would be helpful.
Read the entire question and 23 answers
Q
New York, NY
I am a first time mom returning to work after four months at home with my daughter. I have been pumping on and off while home and have had no volume problems at all. In fact, I have been a milk machine! I started back to work Monday and have seen a serious reduction in the amount I am able to produce at each pumping, by half! I have about 100 oz. frozen but I am so nervous that I am not going to be able to keep up with my daughter at this rate. I know it has only been two days but what am I doing wrong? Why has my production all of the sudden stopped? I have had no medical or special issues with breastfeeding. Anyone else have this issue?
Read the entire question and 47 answers
Q
San Francisco, CA
I have been PUMPING breast milk into BOTTLES for my son who is 1 week old today. I decided to do this instead of directly breast feeding him because he sucks very hard and it makes my breasts very sore. I'm guessing that pumping milk and feeding it to him by a bottle is okay to do, but I was just wondering if I should have any concerns...Thanks for the help!
Read the entire question and 11 answers
Q
Washington DC, MD
I am returning to work in 5 weeks. I have started to punp once a day to get some breastmilk stored up for use at daycare. I am worried that there is not enough milk stored and have not wanted to pump to much and therefore not have milk for my son now while nursing. I know that it works on supply/demand, but how do you time it right to not pump right before the baby is ready to eat. I guess what I am looking for is a good routine to fit pumping in with breastfeeding to increase my supply now. I hear that your supply decreases when you return to work and are pumping more often than actually nursing. Does any one have a good system to getting this done?
Read the entire question and 21 answers
Q
New York, NY
I'm having trouble pumping milk with my breast pump. It just seems to pull and be somewhat painful, and not express much milk. It also makes my breasts congested and lumpy making it hard for my baby to get milk sometimes. I think it gives me plugged ducts. The most I seem to be able to express (after a feeding) is an ounce and a half. How much milk is a normal amount to get, and also about how much expressed milk is a good feeding for a 2 and a half month old? I have an Ameda Purely Yours pump and have been experimenting with the different size shields with more luck with the middle size. The small one was really pinchy. Any advice to make pumping go more smoothly and avoid getting plugged ducts from the pump? Do you think a hospital grade pump would be better?
Read the entire question and 36 answers
Q
Sacramento, CA
Breastfeeding has gone perfectly from day one (whew!). He is 4 months old now. I started pumping at 6 weeks to prep for going back to work part time - 2 days a week. I have been pumping while at work for the next work-day supply and had been successful at it until about a week ago. Baby is feeding from breast just fine - about 15 minutes until I'm empty - and isn't ever hungry until his next usual feeding time and he is wetting as many times as he should be so I know he's getting enough. However, when I try to pump now, I can barely get 2 to 3 oz. Pump is working fine - suction hasn't changed. I have heard that sometimes the pump suddenly isn't able to fool your body into letdown. Has anyone else experienced this? How did you fix it? I'm desperate and would appreciate any advice you have to give! Thank you!
Read the entire question and 21 answers
Q
Portland, OR
Hey,
I've noticed a bit of a decrease in milk lately, but not across the board. I work in the evenings, so I pump after I get home (around 10pm) cause baby is already asleep. I've been home the past couple nights to nurse him before bedtime, so I didn't pump. Last night I got at 10 and tried to pump, and nothing. Seriously, ONE drop of milk came out of my right breast after 30min on the machine. Well, I don't know what he's gonna eat while I'm gone, so I tried pumping this morning during nap. I'm looking at less than 3oz total (both breasts combined) in half an hour. This is not normal. I used to fill a 5oz bottle in 15 min. Are we weaning? Should I try to pump more often to keep up the stimulation? Did I shoot myself in the foot by not pumping after he went to bed on the nights I was home? Baby was total milky face when I nursed him this morning before breakfast, so I know there is still milk in there. He nurses after naps, and he does a giant nurse early in the morning. I don't know if I'm worried or confused or what. Any thoughts?
Read the entire question and 12 answers
Q
Houston, TX
Ok, so i know that my questions are ABC breast-feeding but i am so confused now after all the reading i have done over the internet & thru books. Now i need answers to my questions.
My baby girl was born on Jan 16 08 & i've been breast-feeding her exclusively. Am a stay at home mom not planning to work anytime soon, but i started going out with her to visit friends & run small errands. I bought a battery operated breast pump, as am planning to bottle feed my lil one (occasionally) when we're out together.
1- Do i have to pump every 2-3 hours in order to keep my milk supply going?
2- what happens if I only pump twice per day one in the morning & one in the evening? (or even once in the morning) will that dry out my milk? especially that I stay at home most of the time, so I would like to have her on my breast at home. what's the deal with that?
3- Now that she is 26 days old & i haven't started her on bottles yet, is it too late now to get her used to taking bottles? I keep hearing horror stories about babies that would never take a bottle just bec their mom didn't offer them the bottle earlier. now the mom is suffering as she has to breast-feed exclusively? BTW my DD would take a pacifier only when she is starving, other than that, she totally refuses it! Is it too late for a bottle?
4- how long can i store breast milk in the fridge? some say 7 days others say 48 hours? & can i freeze breast milk after 2 days in the fridge?
5- Can I reheat breast milk that was only refrigerated?
6- how long can breastmilk stay outside fridge after heating?
I know these are too many questions & although i took the breastfeeding class, but i don't seem to remember much of it
Appreciate your help ladies
Read the entire question and 29 answers
Q
Chicago, IL
Hello again mamas!
My son is two weeks old today. Last night I pumped (manual) and got a little less than an ounce from the left and about half an ounce from the right I had to stop because he woke up to eat.
I also pumped when he was 9 days old. And got very little out of the left and the right one gave me enough to make an ounce.
When you pumped at this time how much did you get?
Read the entire question and 7 answers
Q
Chicago, IL
Another question...I am exclusively b-feeding my 9 week old daughter. I returned to work today and am wondering how much she should take in a bottle at each feeding. I know that evey baby is different but she is only taking about 2-3 ozs. This seems so little to me??
Anybody else experience this?
Read the entire question and 9 answers
Q
Chicago, IL
My daughter is now 10 months old. I have chosen to exclusively breast feed her until she is 12 months old. I guess I wanted to see if anyone can share their successes or lack there of with weaning as opposed to just cutting cold turkey. Also, a question about weaning...my family and I will be moving into a new house the beginning of Feb. Right now we are living with my father waiting for the new house to be ready. Anyways, my daughter will be 12 months the end of Feb. so I'm wondering if it would be a good idea to still stick with my plan and quit nursing at 12 months, or do you think there will be too many changes with moving and what not?
Any help, suggestions, or advice would be so appreciated.
Thanks & I hope everyone has a wonderful holiday!!
~J.~
Read the entire question and 13 answers
Q
Chicago, IL
I've been breastfeeding without any real problems for a while now. In the beginning we had to supplement as I wasn't producing enough milk for my daughter, but after a while we were able to wean the formula off as my milk supply increased and only needed to supplement sometimes when she was growth-spurting. Once she started solids we basically supplemented with those instead and nowadays she also gets some whole milk bottles sometimes before bed if what I have isn't enough. Often my milk and her solid meals seem to keep her happy.
Over the last month I've been having a problem with one breast, however. I've mentioned in a previous posting here that I've been trying some new medications that may have had an effect on my milk, so I want to point that out too - however it doesn't seem to have made a difference to her. We've been settling in on some new meds and I've weaned out a feeding here and there to help minimize how much of my meds she might be getting. However I've been having increasing pain in one nipple. It's not constant - it happens when she initially latches on and then will subside for a bit before returning to the point where I have to pull her off because it hurts so much. Not only that, but the nipple is usually partly blue when I pull her off! I'm not sure what this might be. I have been looking online, but I'm not sure where my symptoms fit in.
I should probably also mention that my daughter also recently had some sort of a fungal issue in her diaper area, but the doctor diagnosed it and prescribed a couple of OTC creams that have been clearing it up. It may have started around the same time, however, so I'm not convinced it couldn't be connected.
I'm a bit between doctors for a primary physician for the moment. Would this be somethng I could see my Gynecologist for? Does anyone know what this could be so I can do some research before I see a doctor? She's starting to get more milk from the other breast at the moment because I can't stand the pain.
Read the entire question and 6 answers
Q
Tulsa, OK
When I go to put my newborn to bed and breastfeed she will eat from one breast and then when I try the other side she will eat for about 1 minute and then start screaming. She keeps repeating this process for about 20 minutes and finally she will wear herself out. Any ideas on what may be the problem? This is the only time she does this.
Read the entire question and 27 answers
Q
Chicago, IN
I have a question about whether or not I should stop breastfeeding. I have been breastfeeding for 6 months, and that was my goal, however I would have liked to try and make it to a year. Well, I was having some difficulty and my milk production is WAY down. Now I know some of that has to do with her growth spurt, me having taken sudafed with my sinus infection, and with her sleeping through the night now. Well, the real debate here is because I have donated eggs in the past to couples that can't have children on their own. There is a couple that really wants to use me, but their insurance expires after the end of the year and wants to do it now. While it is totally up to me if I want to or not, I'd really like to help them out. Plus, the money I receive would help out a LOT right now. I cannot breastfeed while I do this because of hormones I have to take and I also don't get my period regularly. However I feel guilty, kind of like I'm taking money to stop breastfeeding and like I'm cheating my daughter. I'm feeling really guilty and really don't know what to do. If I stop breastfeeding now, her being 6 months, what harm could it cause? What benefits would she gain from having another 6 months? I'm really feeling a little overwhelmed with this decision! Please help!!
EDIT: So, I have a lot of great comments. Many of you have commented about the price of formula versus the amount of money received from donating and whether or not it would pay off in the end. Well, I did try and figure out about how much it is to put a baby on formula for the second 6 months of life and it would be about $600 for the 6 months. The payment I would receive from donating is $10,000... so much more than the cost of formula. Financially, it would definitely pay off, but physically and emotionally, I don't know. So I just wanted to add this in case others were wondering.
Read the entire question and 14 answers
Q
Seattle, WA
when i was in the hospital with makenzie and she didnt want to latch on, a couple lactation consultants suggested to keep trying, but to pump after she ate to get/keep my supply up. i rented a pump from the hospital and i try really hard to pump after each feeding. lately though, she hasnt been eating as often and my breasts start to hurt...i try to wake her up then to see if shes hungry, but she usually will only latch on for 5 minutes and fall fast asleep again. so i end up pumping, and an hour later she wakes up wanting to eat. sometimes i breastfeed her then, sometimes i give her what i pumped from a bottle. when she does latch on and nurse, she goes 10-15 minutes per breast. the only problem i have with that, is when shes eating on side #1, side #2 leaks like a broken dam...i can totally soak through a nursing pad, bra and have a huge wet spot on my shirt before shes ready to switch sides. im not sure if thats because ive been pumping, and my breasts are just used to letting milk go from both sides at the same time..or what. and i hate to say this, but i really hate pumping lol its just rough to feed her for 30 minutes, then sit and pump for 15 more while alexis runs around and tries to unplug the pump and such. so my question is...do i really need to continue pumping after feedings, or at all...or what i should do about the leaking
Read the entire question and 12 answers
Q
New York, CT
I have been pumping at work for my 4.5 month old for about 6 weeks. Recently noticed a huge difference in the appearance between the expressed milk from one side to the other. One produces white thicker milk while the other is producing a clearer thinner looking milk. Any thoughts on what this is or why?
Read the entire question and 6 answers
Q
Chicago, IL
I have been breastfeeding my daughter for seven months with no problems, now today, my right nipple is sore and my breast feels bruised. It is horrible... I'm not sure what is going on. It is VERY painful, even to drive tonight, the seat belt rubbed against it and I almost flew through the roof. I bought some ibuprofen tonight and will see if that helps, but have you ever heard of this happening? Thank you in advance for you thoughts, advice, etc.
Read the entire question and 17 answers
Q
Dallas, TX
I was wondering about my one month old son who does not make eye contact. He will every once in a while but he will not focus on me. He does although, follow really well. He also does not nurse or take a bottle that well. He doesnt seem to know how to regulate his breathing and eating so he tends to choke and then gets frusterated and gets gas and hiccups. He had a really bad congested cold that I thought was teh reason why he could not nurse or bottle well but now that he is better he still is not doing great. I really wanted to nurse but my milk just came out to fast for him so i started to bottle him. Now that he is better i thought he would nurse or at least take a bottle better and sometimes he does but not great. He is my second and i dont know if i am just comparing him to my first who was very alert from day one. Should he be making eye contact well at one month? Thanks so much
J.
Read the entire question and 7 answers
Q
Norfolk, VA
I have noticed my 3 week old baby has not been eating as long when feeding, she is only eating about 15 min. each feeding and I am wondering if this may be the reason she only sleeps for a couple hours at a time. Also, I read something about foremilk and hindmilk and wonder if maybe she is only getting foremilk because she is only feeding for a short time? How do you know if they are getting hindmilk? And another thing---at night she seems to wake up and want to stay awake, she doesn't need her diaper changed, she's eaten and she doesn't have gas but she just seems to want to be held. I have tried letting her cry for 10-15 min to see if she will "cry herself to sleep" which of course breaks my heart! I am at a loss...she is awake during the day for about 3-4 hours around feeding times throughout the day and I don't let her sleep longer than 3 hours during the day, but every night there is a period of about 2 hours that she just wants to be UP and held. Any suggestions?? And one last thing--in the last couple of days my breasts have been leaking towards the end of the time before she feeds but I have not experienced this until very recently....is this normal and does it have to do with her eating less? I wish there was a manual!!! Thanks for any help you have in advance!!
Read the entire question and 25 answers
Q
Chicago, IL
My daughter just turned one year. I have breastfed her - I work, so the caregiver has given her bottles of my milk twice a day for the past 6 months. I have loved breast feeding her and I don't want to stop...however, I am really ready to stop pumping. I am a teacher so I get home around 3:15. I have been nursing her when she wakes up around 6am and then pumping at about 6:30 am. I go until 11:40 when I have about 12-15 minutes to pump. I nurse her immediately when I get home and then again before she goes to bed around 6:30pm. Sometimes I pump after that. My question is, if I eliminate the 11:40 pumping but keep everything else the same, will I be able to keep up the supply? Will the supply meet the new demand?
I have already tried whole cow's milk and she was fine with it, so I wonder if she could drink that during the day when I am away, and then drink breast milk at the times when I am at home.
I know that probably all of us are different and what worked for some may not work for me, but I'd love some advice. Thanks!
Read the entire question and 13 answers
Q
Chicago, IL
I have an older Medela Pump in Style that I used for my first. It works... but it is sooo loud and so slow. I recently saw another women pumping and was amazed at how quiet it was, I couldn't even hear it. I asked her if it was a Medela and she said yes, but I'm not sure which model. Do any of you have a very quiet Medela pump that you'd recommend?
Read the entire question and 8 answers
Q
Dallas, TX
I was just wondering if there was anything special I needed to do to quit breastfeeding. My daughter is 6 1/2 months old and I have struggled from day one to pump enough breast milk for her. I have tried everything, I drink 80-120 ounces of water each day (also because I am prone to kidney stones), I eat very healthfully, I pump 3-4 times a day, and I have been on Reglan for 3 months now and can only pump roughly 3 ounces a day using a Medela Pump In Style breast pump. I have been supplementing with formula since she was 2 ½ months which she takes just as well as the breast milk now. Everything I have read tells me what I need to do to wean her but I am confused on what I need to do for me. I remember in the hospital they told moms who were not nursing to bind their breast with an Ace bandage and I did not know if I needed to do something along those lines as well.
Read the entire question and 5 answers
Q
Washington DC, MD
I am a breastfeeding mother. My daughter is 8 months old. I plan to breastfeed until 1 year old at least. She has recently started cutting her top teeth (alread has her bottoms) and she is biting when she nurses. I do pump, but find that my milk supply decreases when I haven't nursed in a day or so. I tried a nipple shield and my daughter screamed and would not nurse until I took it off. What has worked for you, breastfeeding moms??
Read the entire question and 26 answers
Q
Chicago, IL
Yes moms, it's my second request today, but wanted some referrals. I will be travelling overnights for work soon and wanted a recommendation on a lightweight good pump while away from my baby. I have the Medela Pump in Style at home and love it, but it's too big and heavy for air travel. Are there any manual or small electric pumps do you recommend? Thanks!
Read the entire question and 21 answers
Q
San Francisco, CA
I am still lactating. Can I have smoked salmon? If I can not, how long before I can breastfeed again?
Read the entire question and 10 answers
Q
Tampa, FL
I am about to give birth to our second son. I nursed our first son for 18 months and plan to do the same with our second boy. I am also considering reintroducing breast milk to our 3.5 year old once our newborn is nursing well. Is this a good idea? If so, when would be a good time to reintroduce it to our first born? From what I understand, your milk changes as the baby grows, would this be an issue for our 3.5 year old? I figured that if he can drink organic cow's milk just fine, what is better that drinking his mom's milk since I will be lactating again.
Read the entire question and 8 answers
Q
Cincinnati, OH
I am returning to work soon, and need to prepare my almost 3 month old to take bottles during the day, but I will be pumping during the day and still plan on breastfeeding in the evenings and overnight. What is the best way to start this switch over? And how can I prepare my husband to feed her and she not have a crying fit? Should I give her the bottle first? Should I avoid feeding her a bottle so she isn't confused with the breast? Should I just have my husband feed her the bottle only? Also, as I mentioned, my baby just turned 2 months old, and she is still eating almost every two hours most of the time, occasionally she can go up to 4 hours during the night. I'm wondering if she is getting satisfied when she does eat, she still gets very tired during the breastfeeding, and I try to keep her stimulated, and she doesn't always want to take both sides. How can I stretch out her feedings and reduce my fatigue? Any tips on preparing daddy to be home with the baby and she be used to him instead of mommy all day?
Read the entire question and 7 answers
Q
Denver, CO
Hi -
I had to abruptly stop breastfeeding my 6 1/2 month old due to issues with food allergies, reflux and overall fussiness. I was not ready to make this transition and I'm having a really hard time dealing with it. It was only 5 days ago that I stopped, but I just can't accept that this precious time between me and my baby is gone. He may be my last little guy and the idea that this is all over deeply saddens me. Anyone else go thru this?
Read the entire question and 38 answers
Q
Philadelphia, PA
Hi,
My 3-month-old is suddenly refusing the bottle and I'm supposed to go back to work on Monday. Any suggestions?
Thanks!
Read the entire question and 13 answers
Q
New York, NY
Our breast-fed daughter was fine with an occasional bottle of breast milk. She is now 10 weeks old, and my husband's attempt to give her a bottle while I went to work for a half-day last week was met with 3 hours of loud, insistent crying. Since then, he's been giving her a bottle once a day to get her used to it, but she is still crying loudly. I have to go back to work a few days a week, and we need her to take a bottle of breast milk from various family members while I'm away. Any tips? Many thanks!
Read the entire question and 11 answers
Q
San Francisco, CA
Hi Moms,
I really need some suggestions for weaning my 2 yr. old son from nursing. I have been weaning him gradually, since I returned to work 9 months ago. I work three days per week, and am home with him the rest of the time. He is currently nursing when he wakes up (on days when I am home from work) and before bedtime (every night). On days when I am at work, he goes down for a nap quite readily; however, when I am home, he wants to nurse to sleep. This has become quite disruptive to his nap schedule. I am looking for any advice/suggestions as to how to wean him completely.
Thank you, dear moms!
Read the entire question and 9 answers
Q
Seattle, WA
My daughter is now 13 months old and I would like to wean her from breastfeeding. Until now she has been exclusively breastfed, even as I have returned to work full time. I have noticed that she now only does this for comfort and not nutritional reasons. I would like to wean her but do not want to damage her in the process. I want her to know I am here for her in other ways. How have any of you done this successfully in the past?
Read the entire question and 11 answers
Q
Atlanta, GA
I have recently gone back to work. I am still breastfeeding and pumping at work. My daughter is having a little problem taking the bottle. She does take it, but it takes about 25 minutes to get five ounces down. It only takes her ten minutes or so to nurse. I am wondering what kind of bottle is most like the breast to help her take it better. We are currently using Dr. Browns! Thanks
Read the entire question and 24 answers
Q
Dallas, TX
I am pregnant and looking for a gently used (preferrably Medela pump in style) breast pump as soon as possible. If you are looking to sale your pump or know of someone please pass the info. along to me! Thank you.
Read the entire question and 8 answers
Q
Minneapolis, MN
I've tried breast gel pads and lanolin as well as changing positions at each feeding but I'm still having sore nipples that crack. I've been working with a lactation consultant who at our last visit said my morning milk supply seemed ample and we're giving a bit of formula along with the nighttime feedings to help him get what he needs. Any ideas on getting my nipples to stop hurting and stop cracking? Thanks.
Read the entire question and 17 answers
Q
Phoenix, AZ
I have a one month old who is breastfeeding and recently he has begun to sleep longer hours through the night, sometimes 7 hours at a time. I am not nursing as often at night anymore so does this mean that my milk supply is decreasing? I am affraid that I am drying up. During the day I pump when he sleeps longer hours, but during the night I dont pump as often. I just need to know if I will lose my milk supply if I dont breastfeed as often during the night. Thanks.
Read the entire question and 7 answers
Q
Chicago, IL
Hi,
I think I would greatly benefit from a lactation consultant. I gave birth to 34.3 week boy/girl twins in late June. They were not introduced to my breasts until approx 7-9 days after!!! :( They are not latching well at all. Every few feedings, I can get my son to latch for 3-9 minutes. As for my daugher, the most she was able to latch is for about 3 minutes once every 7 feedings maybe?! Anyone know of any consultants??? Thanks SO much.
Read the entire question and 10 answers
Q
Chicago, IL
Hi - since starting back at work, my milk supply has reduced drastically, even with pumping. I am down to producing a total of about 6 ounces a day where I used to make 6 ounces every time I pumped. I heard there are remedies out there (herbal or medication) that can help increase milk supply. Does anyone know the name(s), where I can get them and if they really work? Thanks for any help you can provide.
Read the entire question and 16 answers
Q
New York, CT
I am a stay-at-home mom with 3 kids (ages 19, 11, and 14 months). I have breastfed all of my kids and I had no trouble weaning the first two when they were about one year. They seemed to just stop wanting to nurse at that time. My 14 month old is different. He loves to nurse and since he sleeps in our bed that is how he falls asleep. The problem is that I am pregnant again and I have had a complication which requires me to stop nursing immediately. Last night was our first night of not nursing and it was horrible. He kept on crying. And our whole household didn't sleep much. I feel like the worst mom ever for torturing him. There seemed to be no way to comfort him (we all tried). I know that it will eventually come to pass, but how do I get over the guilt? I feel like I am letting him down. He wasn't ready (I wasn't even ready) to wean. I already miss that closeness we have.
Read the entire question and 21 answers
Q
Los Angeles, CA
I have been breastfeeding my eight-month old son since birth. I've been back at work since he was three months old so I pump while at the office and he usually gets two bottles during the day and comes to visit me at lunch and I nurse him. But, over the last few weeks he's become much less interested in nursing. He'll latch on for about 30 seconds, come off the breast and turn away. If I try to get him to latch on again, he may nurse for another 30-60 seconds but then comes off again and after a few tries he's clearly done and will get frustrated and cry if I try to continue. However, if I offer him a bottle, he's more than happy to take it. He still nurses well once in the middle of the night and first thing in the morning, but during the day it's pretty much a no go.
Is he starting to self-wean? I had hoped to breastfeed for at least a year and will continue to pump and bottle if he doesn't want to nurse, but I'm concerned about my milk supply if I'm only pumping. Since I've gone back to the office I've had to work at keeping my milk supply up by adding extra pumping sessions at night, taking mother's milk tea, fenugreek/blessed thistle, eating oatmeal, drinking lots of water, etc. So, I suspect that if I'm only pumping and not nursing, my milk supply will drop and I'll have to supplement with formula.
Any thoughts would be much appreciated. Thanks.
Read the entire question and 14 answers
Q
Chicago, IL
Hello, my 4 month old's caregiver asked me about giving my son water. She said that you can give him water in between feedings to hold him over from nursings - or something like that. I wasn't into the idea because all I've ever heard, and believed, is that all baby needs for the first six months is breastmilk. Do you ladies give baby something other than breastmilk in the first 6 months of life? If so, why and what's the effect?
Read the entire question and 52 answers
Q
Dallas, TX
Well, I am not sure what the biggest problem is. My 10 month old baby girl is really attached to breastfeeding. She is eating baby food and does well with it, so she nurses less. However, she will not take any water from a bottle or sippy cup and no juice from a cup. I plan to nurse until 1yr. I am a working mother, so her latest is not taking a bottle at all when I am gone. I work nights so it isn't a big deal, she just doesn't eat in the middle of the night when I am not here. My husband and I are worried that she is not getting enough fluids, she wakes with a dry diaper in the mornings. Do you ladies have any suggestions. Also, when I am here and she cries to eat in the middle of the night, should I still feed her? Should she be sleeping completly through the night? I think with my first one she stopped with the midnight feeding befor now. HELP!
Read the entire question and 9 answers
Q
Chicago, IL
My daughter is just turning 6-months old this weekend and I have just started her on rice cereal a couple times a week (about 3 weeks ago). She has only been have a BM about 1ce a week. She doesn't seem uncomfortable and she has plenty of wet diapers. When she does have a BM, it is normal, just huge. I will be starting some other solids in a week or so.
My question is should I give her some water or watered down juice to help it along? Is it OK to add water/juice to a BF baby's diet at about 6-months? When, how much, or not at all?? Or should I just not worry? I know it could be normal to only have a BM once a week for BF babies, but wondered also about water/juice in general.
Thanks!!
Read the entire question and 18 answers
Q
Kansas City, KS
My five month old son normally breastfeeds well but lately I have been supplementing him with formula bottles when I visit my parents. I have been over there several times to help them with their medical issues and I find it difficult to feed during doctor appointments. Next week I am going for another whole week. Sometimes I am unable to take my son with me to an appointment so my mother or whoever is watching him gives him some formula. I do pump with my Avent hand pump but it doesn't make enough for a full feeding to replace the next time he may need a bottle. Only get 2-3 ounces when I pump.
My question is: Should I buy a double pump that you plug into a wall? I know working moms pump all day and make enough milk for their day care providers to use but am unsure how this would work since I am a stay at home mom. If I do get one I would also probably pump and freeze my milk. Any advice would be appreicated! Thanks.
Read the entire question and 53 answers
Q
San Diego, CA
I have a 8 week old baby boy who I am breast feeding. He eats almost every hour. I feel very overwhelmed by how much I have to feed him. I have asked his Dr. and a lactation specialist and they both say feed him whenever he is hungry. But I also have a four year old who needs a lot of atention and with all of these feeding I cant seem to find time to spend with her.
I wonder if I am not producing enough milk? When I have tried to pump so I could have a break and my husaband could do a couple feedings I only pump out 2.5 oz at the most.
I guess what I am wondering is if anyone hasd any ideas for me on how I can get break and not have to feed him every hour?
Read the entire question and 10 answers
Q
Philadelphia, PA
I am breastfeeding my 3 month old daughter. A few weeks ago, she started sleeping through the night (9:30 PM to 6:00/6:30 AM). I have been able to nurse her before putting her in her crib around 9:00 and then not feed her again until morning. I am able to pacify her in the middle of the night if she wakes. My problem was last night she fell asleep by 8:00 PM in her crib. I wanted to go to bed and not have to feed her in the middle of the night, but I also didn't want to wake her at 9:00 or 10:00. I know the old saying is "never wake a sleeping baby", but I didn't want to mess with our routine which seemed to be working. I ended up getting her up and she nursed while half asleep. She went right back to sleep and didn't wake until 6:00, so it seemed to be ok. I'm wondering what other mother's opinons are on this in case it happens again. I didn't have this problem with my son because he wasn't a good sleeper until he was 6 months old. Anyone have any advice?
Read the entire question and 20 answers
Q
Portland, OR
My 6th month old started sleeping through the night all on his own about 2 weeks ago. Until then he was waking at least 1, mostly 2 times a night. He now goes down at about 7:00 and doesn't wake until 7:00 am (at least for the last 2 weeks:-). I love that he sleep so great through the night. The first couple of nights I was pumping at 10:00 before I went to sleep. Now when I pump there is almost nothing there (maybe 2 or 3 oz.) I nurse him about every 2.5 to 3 hours during the day. He has good wet diapers and two poppy one a day. My questions are this:
1) Is he getting enough food?
2) Should I wake him up and nurse him to keep my milk supply (I really love getting sleep;-)?
3) Do I need to supplement him with something? I have started rice cereal at dinner time.
Thanks so much.
Read the entire question and 27 answers
Q
Columbia, SC
Hi Ladies,
My daughter is 9 weeks old and is exclusively breastfed. She has a late night feeding around 11:30 or 12:00 at night, and then wakes up 3-4 hours later for a feeding, and sleeps until 5:30 or 6 or so. Should she be sleeping through the night already? And if she should be, any tips or suggestions on how I could get her to do that? This is my first baby and I'm trying to learn all the ropes a being a new mommy:) I'd appreciate any help y'all can give me. Thanks.
Read the entire question and 18 answers
Q
New York, NY
I was wondering if anyone had any ideas for how to get my baby to not fall asleep during breasfeeding. He seems to do well on the first breast, then falls asleep while I am burping him. I tried undressing him, etc.. It seems like he is satisfied, but I can't imagine that 15 min is long enough. He is 2 weeks old. Any tricks?
Read the entire question and 46 answers
Q
Chicago, IL
My 7-day old is seems to get very sleepy the moment he latches on. He will suck and swallow a few times then close his eyes and rest, suck and swallow and rest, etc etc. He's nursing as frequently as he should and has several wet and soiled diapers throughout the day but I'm still worried that he's not eating enough.
I've stripped him down to his diaper, caressed his head and arms, talked to him but none of these will keep him from dozing off.
Any suggestions on how I can keep him awake during feedings?
Read the entire question and 16 answers
Q
Dallas, TX
I was just wondering if anyone has experienced the same thing. My three week old doesn't want to wake up for feeding every 2 to 2 1/2 hours during the day. Will go 31/2 to 4 hours during the day if not woke up and at night 4 to 5 hours or longer. Pees and poops normally. Waking him up is a struggle. Was born on time. Weighed 6lbs 12oz at birth. Called pedi office and said if he is pooping and peeing okay then don't worry. I just wish I can get him weighed again before his next check up. Any ideas or suggestions? weight gain ok. was an ounce shy of his birth weight at two week check up. Went to LC.
Read the entire question and 9 answers
Q
South Bend, IN
O.K. so I have a couple of questions ....I have a four month old daughter who is breastfed (bottles at daycare from milk I have pumped and frozen). Currently she is eating 6 oz every 2-3 hours. She is still getting up 1 or 2 times a night to be fed as well. I think this is alot for her age although she is not overweight or anything.My son was about the same size as her but only ate about this much every four hours or so. When I first started back to work I could pump about 20 oz. a day. Now I am only getting about 12 oz. I had the same issue with my son until I eventually dried up. I don't think I am pumping incorrectly but I just don't seem to get as much when I pump as when she nurses. From what I hear this is normal. So, how can I get my milk production to go back up? In the mean time, my husband and I have decided to try out some solid foods on our daughter to hopefully supplement the fact that we don't have as much breast milk and would like to try and avoid formula. We were going to try and wait until she was five months old to start but from what we understand four months is an ok time to try 1st foods. About a week ago we started on rice cereal. She didn't like it so I bought some Gerber 1st foods and put a couple scoops into the cereal. She seems to like it really well...four about ten bites. Then she screams and wants absolutely nothing to do with it. She only wants to nurse. I am feeding her about 20 minutes before she normally cries to nurse. I heard this is better because then they aren't extremely hungry and wanting the instant gratification of milk. I guess my question is...How can I get her to go beyond the few bites she takes at first. I was thinking maybe she is just thirsty and I should try a sippy but I think it may be too early for that. Any suggestions on either topic would be much appreciated. God bless!
Read the entire question and 33 answers
Q
Minneapolis, MN
My son is 3 1/2 months old. He has been both breastfed and bottle-fed from day 1. He has been able to switch back and forth easily, no "nipple confusion". Right now, he is exclusively breastfed 4 days/week. He receives a bottle 3 days/week, when I work outside of the home. When he is bottle-fed, it is both breast milk and formula. When he is awake, he eats every 2 to 3 hours. He sleeps for 10-12 hours at night already, without waking up.
The last few weeks, when he is breastfed, he will latch on and suck for a minute or two, and then he will spit my nipple out. He will latch on again, suck just a few times, and then spit it out again. He gets increasingly frustrated and fussy as it goes on.
For awhile, he wouldn't do this if I breastfed him while laying down. I don't know what the connection was there--the only thing I could think of was he is starting to teethe, and maybe that position put less pressure on his gums. Now, he does it even then, and it is getting worse.
I'm not using lotions or soaps on my breast. My milk output is the same when I pump, and when I squeeze my breast while feeding him, milk does shoot out. He has 5-8 wet diapers/day, which I understand to be normal for a baby his age.
There has been no change when he takes a bottle. He doesn't fuss at all and he takes the bottle just fine.
Tonight, he refused my breast and screamed for an hour when I tried to put him to bed. I finally gave him a bottle of breast milk. He drank 2 oz. like he was starving, and went right to sleep.
I am wondering if anyone else has experienced this before, and what might be the problem? I am wondering if his gums are really bothering him, and somehow the bottle is easier for him to suck on? If he prefers a bottle, I don't have a huge issue with it, as I can use a breast pump, but expressing my milk gets to be so time consuming.
Read the entire question and 13 answers
Q
Houston, TX
My son is 4 months old. He was a NICU baby and really stuck to his schedule. He does have acid reflux and is on prevacid. He has never been a crier so he just eats his hands when he is hungry or grunts. Every now and then he will cry when he is hungry. This past week he has been spitting up everything. I feel like he is nursing just to nurse. He never refuses to eat so I am having a really hard time determining if he is truly hungry. He doesn cry at daycare either and they feed him when he starts eating at his hands as well. He will spit it right back up. He has a retired pediatric nurse for a teacher so she knows what she is doing. I have been getting up to murse at night only to get drenched in spit up. Last night I finally realized he just wanted to rub his blanket. As soon as I gave it to him he went right back to sleep. I was wondering if anyone else has been through this and what worked. I think I should just put him on a schedule to see if that helps. Any suggestions or book reccomendations?
Read the entire question and 21 answers
Q
San Angelo, TX
Here's another nursing question. Everyone is so helpful though. My son is 13 months and he has cut down to between 1 and 3 times of real nursing (where he pays attention, I have a let down, he doesn't bite, or play peek-a-boo with my nipple, etc.)But throughout the day, especially if he is tired, he tries to nurse, or thinks he wants to nurse. He will suck for a couple of seconds and then start laughing or he will laugh and try to pinch me or my favorite ,nip me! I don't mind letting him try to nurse. I usually just give him his milk in his cup and he is fine. Or he will do it for a few seconds, give me a smile and hop down. I guess it is just still so comforting even if there is no milk (it takes a pretty good while to get a let down now) that even just a little mouthing will help. Also I think I give him plenty of love and support and cuddle time, so I think he might just be used to cuddling and comfort this way. I guess my question or concern is, am I hindering the weaning process? He really has done so good on his own with cutting back and I am in no rush really. I just bascically have no milk left and I want a break before trying to have another kid. REally though, I don't think this is bad or wrong and will probably let him keep "pretend nursing" until he figures out to stop or until he bites me hard again on purpose, but I just have never done this and was wondering how y'all have done it!! Thank you!
Read the entire question and 6 answers
Q
Redding, CA
I am a new mom of a wonderful 6 week-old girl who happens to spit-up tremendous amounts throughout the day. She is breastfed, healthy and gaining weight at a normal to rapid pace so I am not worried that she is not getting enough milk. However a few other moms have commented on the amount that she spits up making me think it may be abnormal or that there may be something I can do about this. It comes up and spills out frequently and in large amounts. Needless to say we are both changing our clothes several times throughout the day or just throwing up our hands and calling it our new perfume! Not sure if she may be overeating, reflux, or positioning perhaps? This happens if I sit her up to burp or let her rest, though it seems less common in the middle of the night when she stays in one position during and after feeding. I still have a few weeks until her next checkup so I'm hoping other moms out there can either relate or give suggestions? Until then, I'm thinking of buying head to toe burp cloths for me and baby to stay clean and dry!
Read the entire question and 60 answers
Q
Los Angeles, CA
I have a beautiful 3 1/2 month old. I have been exclusively breastfeeding her since day one. She has been fine, found a few foods that made her fussy and cut them out but for the most part no problems except just about three weeks ago she started spitting up a lot. She is not fussy about it-she just spits up a ton. I try to keep her upright and all that but it is to the point that I get nervous when I take her somewhere and I am carrying her around because she will leave puddle on the ground when she spits up. She also goes through so many burp clothes and bibs. It seems that she has started teething which I thought was part of it but my Dr. said that shouldn't matter. Have any of you had this problem, could she be allergic to something I am eating like dairy or wheat but it is not making her fussy just spitting up?? Would something like this change from when she was first born because she didn't spit up this much until a few weeks ago?? Also, when my husband feeds her with a bottle, still breastmilk but she seems to spit up less???could she be overeating at the breast?
Read the entire question and 24 answers
Q
Tulsa, OK
My daughter spits up a lot and does not poop every day. I breastfeed her first and then give her a 3oz bottle of formula. Sometimes she eats 3oz and other times she only eats 2. I supplement with formula because I don't have enough milk for her. She burps after her bottle but then a few hours later she still spits up. Sometimes the spit up is chunky, sometimes is is sticky and mucous like, and other times it is thin and white. Sometimes she gags on her spit up but then swallows it back down after a few seconds of gasping for air. Also her pooping is unpredictable. Sometimes her poop is dark green and like peanut butter and other times light brown and thin and seedy. We are going to the doctor this week for her two month check up so I will talk to the doctor but I was wanting to know what real moms think. She seems happy and satisfied. Do I need to worry about the spitting up and not pooping every day?
Read the entire question and 15 answers
Q
Los Angeles, CA
Hi Ladies, OK so I need some advice...my 6mo old son is exclusively breastfed and I am getting ready to introduce solids next week. Up until now I haven't gotten into pumping. I would like to start to pump now to mix with cereal as well as to allow for a little more freedom for me, but I don't know when to pump. My son's feeding schedule is on demand. He is a great eater and sleeper. The few occasions that I have pumped he readily accepts the bottle, so i am looking forward to allowing him more opportunity to be fed by others (husband, grandparents, aunt)Any advice as to when to pump, maybe a schedule to follow would be greatly appreciated.
Read the entire question and 16 answers
Q
Albany, NY
I was wondering if anyone can tell me the right way step by step in weaning my baby from nursing. I have had problems with nursing such as blocked milk duct, inflammation, etc. I have weighed what problems I have and am going through and nursing my baby as long as I possibly can, and the problems outweigh. I have not had the chance to nurse my oldest because he was so early, my second, I lost my milk by the time he was 4 mos. Now, I am nursing my third who will be 6 mos in about a week. Can someone tell me step by step to wean so I don't get blocked milk ducts, soreness from not nursing enough, etc? Thanks for any responses.
Read the entire question and 9 answers
Q
Charleston, SC
My 9 week old is still wanting to breastfeed every hour. She usually feeds 10-15 min. on each breast, but she also gets very sleepy. Sometimes, she will only nurse on 1 side and then sleep for 10-15 minutes only to wake up ready to eat on the other breast. I am hoping that she will stretch out her feeding sessions to at least every 2 hours. Let me add that she sleeps well through the night (usually 6-8 hour stretches before waking up for the first time), and that her weight gain is great (born 8 lbs 9 oz., at 2 months she is at 12 lbs 10 oz). Any suggestions?
Read the entire question and 21 answers
Q
Sacramento, CA
Is anyone out there still sore while breastfeeding? I have been using a nipple shield for 3 months due to latching issues. I would like to wean my son off of them; however, he still doesn't latch properly and I do not want to supplement with formula as I have enough milk production for him. Any comments or helpful hints would be greatly appreciated. ***To make a little more clear, the pain is on latching and I would say a 4-4.5, it goes away when he eats. I am pretty sure it is only latching pain and not thrush, no whiteness on me or baby*** Thank you to those who have responded thus far!!!!
Read the entire question and 8 answers
Q
Houston, TX
I have been nursing for 3 weeks. This is my 4th child, and never have I been through this. I went on the La Leche website & didn't find out anything there. My symptoms are.....My nipples are still sore. They are tender when I'm not nursing, and are in pain when I am nursing (right after latch on.) I can tell if he's latched on properly, and when he's not, I will unlatch him, and relatch. The biggest problem is in between feedings. My breasts always feel like they are engorged. Not by being full of milk, but I always have that stinging pain that fills the breast when you are engorged. My breasts feel worse when I touch them. It's not severe pain, I have no chills, etc, so I'm not sure what this is. I figured by now, my breastfeeding should be painless, not painful. My nipples should be tough by now, and my breasts shouldn't have any tenderness or pain shooting through them. Any advice?
Read the entire question and 22 answers
Q
San Antonio, TX
My baby girl won't stop breastfeeding!!! she cries if she doesn't get it!!! shes 19 months old already. ANY ADVICE will do!!!
Read the entire question and 5 answers
Q
Dallas, TX
Hi Moms,
This is now the 3rd baby I have brestfed and I still have questions about it. : )
I pumped a few days ago and put the milk in the freezer even though the bottle was only half full.....I'd like to know if I can go back and add more milk to the same bottle with frozen milk still in it to make it a fuller bottle?
(I'm just not sure if the temperature change to the frozen milk will make it go bad)
Also, how long after you let the milk thaw out does it stay good?
Thanks for any advice and if you have any extra tips you'd like to have go for it.
Thanks Moms!
Read the entire question and 3 answers
Q
Tallahassee, FL
In the last 3-4 days my baby has been having gas in the night time so bad it wakes her up when she farts. I'm breastfeeding her so I tried to look at my diet, but there is no recurrent theme over the last 4 days. We've tried gripe water, but I'm hesitant how much I should be giving her of this. Got any ideas?
Read the entire question and 31 answers
Q
Rochester, NY
I am 8 months pregnant with my 3rd baby and think that I want to breastfeed this time (i only bottle feed ny first 2)but I would really need to be able to pump for the most part. Any suggestions for a good breast pump that isn't too expensive?
Read the entire question and 22 answers
Q
Minneapolis, MN
I'm having issues with my newborn (5 days old) not latching deeply enough - specifically, I can't get him to turn his lower lip out. I have somewhat flat nipples. I'm working on pointing the nipple at his nose & "scooping" him on, but when I think I'm doing that right, he SCREAMS & won't latch. He has a tiny sore on his chin which started as a little pimple at birth & has gotten worse, which the LC in the hospital thought could be from pressure put on it while feeding, but she wasn't concerned about it. I'm not sure if it could be hurting him enough to make him not want to latch properly? The sore hasn't gotten any worse since we got home - maybe a little better. I've also tried some different positions, if only to try to save my nipples until we get it figured out, but he really only likes cross cradle. When I try a kind of upright football hold, which is easiest for me, he makes kind of funny gasping noises after he latches on & just doesn't seem comfortable.
I do have an appointment with the LC on Tuesday, but I'm starting to get blisters on my nipples & the appt is two days away! He sucks & swallows well, and is peeing, sleeping & waking up like I'd expect, so I think he's getting enough milk. Just thought I'd ask for suggestions since I've seen so much fantastic bf advice here. Thanks!
Read the entire question and 8 answers
Q
New York, CT
Is it safe to use sunless tanning creams/gels when nursing? I could use some spring color but I don't want to tan--too dangerous.
Read the entire question and 9 answers
Q
New York, NY
I recently started menstruating and for a few days before through the duration of my period, my milk supply drastically drops. I usually pump 12 to 16 oz. while I am at work and it drops to 8 to 12 oz. during my period. We have used up our frozen supply and I feel that I am forced to supplement during this time with formula. I would rather not. My son is 5 1/2 months old. He eats homemade rice and oat cereal and pears and apples. Can I supplement with more cereal feedings during this time? If I have to supplement with formula, can anyone recommend a brand to me that does not have a 1000 ingredients I cannot pronounce in it? I immensely appreciate your feedback.
Read the entire question and 13 answers
Q
Cleveland, OH
Hi! My baby is almost 11 months old and we are still nursing. I would like to be done by the time he is a year old (end of Dec). I am so anxious to be able to introduce cow's milk. My main reason is because on the 2 days that I work, the frozen milk that I have pumped is used to feed him. It is difficult to pump at work, I feel like I have to "sneak" out and use a bathroom stall which I have been doing for 8 months now. My frozen supply is depleting as I have not been getting as much milk with each pumping. Is there any harm to introducing milk before the 12 month mark? Any advice to help me with weaning the little guy? Thanks!
Read the entire question and 10 answers
Q
Provo, UT
I have a Baby boy that will be one in March. I am not producing as much as I have been in the past. At what time frame can his system handle being switched from breast milk to whole milk? He was born a few weeks early and has had numerous surgeries. All the healing time has made him slightly behind other one year olds. He is not crawling yet and he can't swallow anything more solid than bread and baby food. Though there is a possibility that there is something wrong with his soft pallet. So will he still be ok giving him cow milk at one year old.
Read the entire question and 17 answers
Q
Colorado Springs, CO
Question: I have a bad cold and really need to take a Sudafed type pill to clear my nose so that I can breathe--particularly at night. Do you know whether this will hurt my 2 month old who I'm breastfeeding? Does anyone know which over-the-counter medicines are safe for breastfeeding moms who are sick? Your knowledge is much appreciated.
Read the entire question and 10 answers
Q
San Francisco, CA
I was wondering if any of you know if it's ok to take supplements while nursing? i've been working out and i really want to get in excellent shape. Anyway, my husband bought me some muscle milk,it's some type of protein shake, its suppose to help burn fat, stimulate muscle synthesis, boost nitrogen balance, and increase oxygen delivery. It says it has micellar proteins, leanlipids, growth peptides, complete caseins, peptides, lactalbumins, and lactoferrin. I wanted to know if this is safe? please only respond if you know facts. thanks :)
Read the entire question and 18 answers
Q
New York, NJ
I'm breastfeeding my 9 month old, who is getting her top 4 front teeth and they dig into me during feedings. She's not actually biting me, but the teeth have broken the skin so it's excruciating to feed her sometimes. Her latch looks ok but might be a little shallow sometimes, I can't tell. It's hard to get her to open her mouth wider and re-latch. I really want to continue breastfeeding and have been using Lansinoh cream, which helps somewhat. Does anyone have advice on what to do here? Thank you.
Read the entire question and 20 answers
Q
Fresno, CA
My 5 month old has one tooth. She thinks it's funny to bite me when she's done nursing. She smiles after she does it and she laughs when she hears me screetch in pain.
Any suggestions on discouraging her frtom biting? Any suggestions on helping me endure the pain?
Read the entire question and 23 answers
Q
Los Angeles, CA
I'm preparing a breast-feeding class for new parents. I would like some insight on breast-feeding questions/concerns for mothers expecting their first baby, or what you wished you knew about this topic when your first baby was born. Any feedback will be greatly appreciated.
Read the entire question and 55 answers
Q
Sacramento, CA
When my baby was born I breastfed, however after about 2 months i dried up and had to start on formula. My 9 month old baby is doing fine, however I have been wondering about starting up again. I have heard that there are pills that i can take to get my supply back.
What do you think?
Read the entire question and 12 answers
Q
Dallas, TX
ok so my 11 1/2 month old son started throwing up a few nights a week after nursing. I have been attempting to wean him from BF for a few weeks now- we are down to 2-3 times a day (morning, midafternoon, bedtime)- the longest nursing session being the nighttime feeding before bed. I am usually pretty full by then as trying to slow down milk supply. He will nurse well on both sides and when i put him over my shoulder he will burp and sometimes now he throws up. it does not seem to even phase him- just kinda comes out- but it appears to be alot. he never had reflux problems or spit up at all as a baby so why now? not sure if it is even related to BF- maybe his stomach is upset from foods had during the day?- as he eats 3 meals plus snacks. i have not noticed any particular food that may cause it. i am at a total loss as to the cause. again- he is unphased by it completely but it is starting to concern me b/c it has happened more than once or twice. any ideas, thoughts, etc would be great
Read the entire question and 12 answers
Q
Wilmington, NC
I recently brought my 3 week old son to the pediatrician because he had white spots all over in his mouth. It turned out to be Thrush. She gave him some antibiodics and said he would be okay in a couple days. My first son never had this so I don't really know what to expect. My questions are: Is it contagious? I am breastfeeding and lately my nipples are really sore while feeding and it hurts with the initial latch on. Also, when I got out of the shower yesterday I noticed little white bumps around my nipple itself. And, if it is contagious, is there something I can take over the counter to make it stop or to put on my nipples?
Read the entire question and 18 answers
Q
Washington DC, VA
I have a horrible recurring case of thrush. I've been treated with diflucan twice. The first time I was given 10 days of 150 mg. (2 pills the first day), and Newman's Ointment and Nystatin for the baby. Of course it came back after that, with a vengeance. The second time I was given diflucan for 21 days, and finished my last dose on Saturday. Here it is Tuesday, and of course it is back. During my last treatment, I decided to leave no stones unturned, and on top of the diflucan, I treated myself and my baby for three days with gentian violet. I bought all new nipples and pump attachments, and boiled them for 20 minutes daily. I threw away my nipples after a week of use. I bought all new bras, and washed them in hot water after wearing each bra for only one day. I religiously cleaned myself, taking showers every night after I nursed the baby and pumped. I'm trying so hard to continue nursing, I nursed my first daughter until 15 months. I hate taking medication, but I'm trying to do everything that I can for my daughter. I'm thinking that the next step is probably vinegar nipple baths and strict diets, plus being even more religious about treating my daughter with the Nystatin. Did I mention that she shows no signs of yeast in her mouth? The thought is that she is a carrier. I'm just so frustrated. I've never known anyone else with thrush, but it seems harder to get rid of than roaches!
Read the entire question and 10 answers
Q
Spokane, WA
I have an 11 month old daughter and I always thought I'd nurse her until a year. It's almost a year and even though she eats lots of food and drinks a lot of other things in her bottle she still nurses three times a day and through the night. I think she just likes the "mama time". I'm ready for her to stop nursing, but I dont know if she is. How long did your kids nurse, when did you decide to wean them and looking back did you think it was the right decision? I don't want the weaning process to be too h*** o* her but I also dont want her to nurse for too long. what advice can you give me? thanks!
Read the entire question and 38 answers
Q
Greensboro, NC
My 21 month old son still wants to breastfeed to go to sleep. This wouldn't be a huge problem, but when he wakes up in the middle of the night he thinks he should breastfeed. I know he can go back to sleep on his own so I'm trying to encourage him to do so. Some nights he absolutely insists on breastfeeding every time he wakes up and throws a tantrum if I don't immediately give in. He will scream at the top of his lungs and thrash around, hits and pulls hair - it's very upsetting. I try to let him "cry it out" but this behavior can last for a solid hour until I'm exhausted. The dog even hides! I try to tell him he's OK and go back to sleep. I pat him and calm him down, but as soon as he's realized I'm not giving in he'll start screaming again. Any suggestions for how I can encourage him to wean from these feedings without completely losing my mind? I've already got him eating solid food very well. It's just these "comfort" feedings he's unwilling to give up.
Read the entire question and 15 answers
Q
Redding, CA
Reading books did not get me ready for that one: I never thought breastfeeding would be so difficult! I have a son that is 6 weeks old. I would like to breastfeed him up to at least the 6th month. I am presently dealing with several breastfeeding issues. I have a large overproduction of milk and cracked nipples since week 1 (are healing extremely slowly). My son has been feeding every 1-2 hours days and nights for the past 2.5 weeks. He also has a slight tongue-tie (speech therapist was a great help). Although I would love to be able to get more sleep, my main issue is that I would like to stabilize my milk production. I feel that if I can get more hindmilk to him, it would space the feedings and give more time for my breast to heal. As an aside, he has been taking more than 3 lbs since birth.
A typical feeding period is less then 5 minutes (he chugs!) . . . which does not give much time for letdown/hindmilk. I have tried extracting milk prior to feeding without much results beside a crying baby and higher production of milk. I have been feeding on one breast at the time and am retrying the block feeding method without much success (I might be needing more info on the method itself). I could always rely on bottles but am afraid of nipple confusion and would much prefer not having to rely on plastic bottles, breast pump, feeding tube, etc.
Any advices? Thanks, Josée
Read the entire question and 9 answers
Q
Phoenix, AZ
I am the mom of 6 month old triplets, and I am still pumping. I am able to put at least an ounce and a half or so in with each bottle, and they each get bottles 4-5 times a day. I also work from home, so needless to say my time is crunched. Is it bad (other than nipple irritation) to pump for 5-10 min an hour? I am not breastfeeding, and do not have time to do so. I need to keep my milk supply up for as long as possible, but I was just wondering if there is such a thing as too much. What happens is that if I wait 2-3 hours, it takes up to 20 minutes. If I do 5 min or so every hour, how would that effect my supply? The other day I went 12 hours because I could not take the time to pump. I want to keep going as long as I can (better for me, babies and wallet), and I understand that just pumping only can reduce supply faster. I am also taking Bless Thistle and Fenugreek supplements along with over 2 liters of water a day. I also have a bowl of oatmeal a day as I have heard that helps with supply.
UPDATE... :) I am using the Medela Pump in style. It was recommended to me by the lactation consultant at Banner Good Sam. Thx everyone!
Read the entire question and 33 answers
Q
Minneapolis, MN
Hello - My son just turned one and I am trying to transition him from breastmilk to whole milk. He has completely refused to take bottles with whole milk and my breastmilks supply is almost completely gone. Any suggestions?
Read the entire question and 10 answers
Q
Houston, TX
I have an almost 11 month old baby that I am breastfeeding, and will probably continue until she turns one. I want to transition her from the breast to a sippy cup since I know that a bottle is just one more thing that she can get attatched to. She drinks water from a sippy cup, and I tried to give her some formula this morning in it, and she drank a sip or two and made a "yucky" face. How can I get her to drink enough if she currently only takes a sip or two at a time? Should I wait that one more month to give her whole milk instead or would it be ok to go ahead and drink it now? She eats yogurt and cheese already. Any advice would be helpful. I can't seem to remember what my other two did.
Read the entire question and 6 answers
Q
San Francisco, CA
Hello,
I'm getting ready to go back to work and my 4.5 month old wont take a bottle. I had a work meeting last friday and my neighbor called me after I had been gone for 5 hours to tell me my son was still crying. He missed me so much and even though he was hungry, he still refused to eat. He knows my neighbor well so I don't think its stranger anxiety. He gets upset when his dad has him for longer than 3 hours and wont bottle feed for him either. I've tried all different types of bottles, nipples, various flows. I leave the house when dad tries to feed. We've been trying about once a day with no luck. My 2 year old never had this problem so I'm at a loss. Yesterday I bought an Adiri bottle ($12.99) with my luck he'll love this one!! Any advise or tips would be great, thank you!
Read the entire question and 19 answers
Q
Dallas, TX
My daughter is just over two months and as a pilot, I'm going to have to start traveling some. My question is if I have enough pumped milk for her and need to be away for three days, can I pump and still not effect my milk supply and if so how often do I have to pump. If I have to stretch out the times I pump to about every 5-6 hours for one stretch a day, will I cause a problem or is my milk established. Do I have to wake up at night when she usually feeds? And if I have to wait, how long will it take to have a constant supply or do I have to wait till I wean her? I know, a ton of questions! Thanks!
Read the entire question and 7 answers
Q
Tucson, AZ
Hi moms,
I am having trouble with my two day old son. He latches on, but he doesn't seem to want to open wide enough for anything other than my nipple and it is really painful. I tried getting him to cry first or waiting for a yawn, then slipping it in. It works sometimes, but after only a minute or two he goes back to only the nipple. I can't imagine he is getting anything but he seems happy. Any tricks I may not have heard on getting him to open up wide? At the hospital, they told me I was doing great. I provided breast milk for my daughter for 6 months. I pumped and gave it to her in a bottle. What I didn't' realize was I needed the baby to help with my production and It was a huge battle just supplying her with an oz or two for those months. If possible, I'd like to avoid formula all together with this one. I just need to start off on the right foot this time.
I know its a learning process for both of us, but I'm not sure how much more of this my poor nipples can take.
Are there any lactation consultants in Sierra Vista?
Thanks!
Read the entire question and 47 answers
Q
Austin, TX
I have just returned back to work and am having trouble getting my baby to transition from the breast to the bottle. I have tried literally all the nipples out there and found one that she will take, but she will only feed once on the bottle and then refuses to eat anymore from it. I am pumping so that she still gets breast milk and haven't even tried formula yet since I'm having such trouble getting her to take the bottle. Any ideas about how to get her to take the bottle would be great!
Read the entire question and 8 answers
Q
Dallas, TX
I own the medela swing -- i did have the playtex double pump but it was awful -- but when i pump i only can get about 2oz in 20+ minutes. i know i produce enough milk bc my son is pretty much exclusively breastfed (he gets maybe 3 bottles of formula a week bc when i am on the go i carry it with me) and he is completely healthy and gaining weight.
i start back to work in a few days so i have been trying to stock up on milk and i havew been having the hardest time. i also want to continue breastfeeding when i go back to work but i am afraid that i wont have enough milk to give to his nanny.
i am a very large breasted gal (34h) and i have heard that pumping is harder for big boobed girls bc the cup doesnt necessarily fit correctly.
any ideas/ suggestion? should i try supplements? HELP!!
Read the entire question and 7 answers
Q
Boise, OR
I nursed my son for six months and then began to add formula so I can go back to work a few days a week. The problem is my milk supply is diminishing. I've looked on the internet and have done the things that are suggested...drink more water, pump more often. It's not really working. I began pumping and nursing through a bottle exclusively about a month ago. I would like to pump for the next three months to get him to a year. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!!!
Read the entire question and 10 answers
Q
Corpus Christi, TX
I have a 1yr old. She is only 16.8 lbs. Very tiny for her age. Her doctor has said it's ok for me to continue nursing. However, I've noticed that my supply has decreased. I'm only pumping around 4oz a day. Seems like nothing wants to come out anymore. Nevertheless, my little one is frustrated and so am I.
Well, i've tried fenegreek & it gave me horrible heart burn. Someone once told me to try Milk thistle, but when i went to GNC to look for it, the lady told me that milk thistle was for the liver.
Read the entire question and 20 answers
