Questions & Answers

Some advice, my sister just had her first baby a month ago and she found pumping helped her milk to come in while she supplemented with formula. I wish I thought of pumping. I also wish I didn't stop supplementing formula so soon. Although, the bleeding from my breasts was an issue. My sister hasn't had any bleeding thankfully. I just thought I would share all of this in the hopes that if it happens to you, you can work though it. But also know that if it doesn't work out for some reason, you are still a great mom and nothing can change that. Best wishes!!

Just wanted to share my experience. With my first I planned on BFing and never considered not doing it. I spent my first 4 days in the hospital and received help daily from a lactation nurse. I supplemented with formula while I waited for my milk to come in. I was sent home the 5th day at which time I stopped supplementing and was strictly boob. My baby screamed and cried the entire day. My breasts were so sore I would shake every time I had to feed her. I was bleeding in her mouth instead of giving her any food. I had a lactation nurse come to the house and she said I was doing a fine job and not to supplement with formula. By midnight (after her screaming all day non stop) I gave her a bottle. She slept her first 5hrs ever. I know now she was starving. My milk didn't come in until day 6. Mentally I was done so we stuck with formula. Just know whatever way it works out, as long as baby is being fed that is the main thing! I am going to try again this time.

As a mom who breastfed exclusively and on demand our first for almost 2 full years and plans to breastfeed this next one, I can tell you that after a couple weeks when you both have the hang of it, it'll be so easy and become like second nature.

Every woman and every baby literally is different. The horror stories you may come across may scare you, but as much as possible, ignore them. Look for good quality information and resources...La Leche League, kellymom.com, and a good IBCLC or postpartum doula versed in breastfeeding are great places to start and will provide additional support.

I'm open to helping with info, answering questions, being supportive, or even venting. The first few weeks may be a bit challenging as you both figure out how to breastfeed and what works or doesn't for you and your family.

I also have two previous children that I formula feed. I breastfed this time and it has been hard it wonderful. My daughter is a year old now and we still nurse at naps and night. For me nursing has been way easier than formula feeding when she cries at night I can just nurse her while laying down then put her back in her bed. I would say that hardest part has been not stressing about not k owing how many ounces she eats. When you are use to know how much they consume at one setting it is super.stressful having no clue when your nursing just hope much they are really getting. But after awhile you learn to trust your body. The most important thing I can tell you is nurse until the baby is ready to stop and don't look at the clock

Look up La Leche League online. they are very informative. It is all about having patience and trust that the nurses will help you after delivery with latching.