BFing moms

In the hospital they told me my nipples were "flat"and the baby has a difficult time latching on. I am pumping and using formula (mostly pumping now) and bought the nipple shield by medela. the shield seems to work pretty well, but I feel like he never gets enough and is always looking for more. I guess I am looking for feedback from anyone who pumps and feeds by bottle exclusively. Everything I have read says my milk supply will not be as good as bfing straight from me. I feel so confused about what my game plan should be...

Re: BFing moms

Erin how old is your baby? How much milk are you getting when you pump?

Re: BFing moms

He's only 9 days old. I use the medela double electric and get about 8 oz. total after 15 min.

Re: BFing moms

how much does he take? at 9 days old (congrats by the way) you need to feed on demand...which sometimes means all day long (or what feels like it) I can remember days where I fed Talia at least 12 times a day!

Re: BFing moms

He's taking 4 oz. at a time. He is also sleeping about 4 hours at a time, so the feedings are about 5/6 a day...he's a piglet right?

Re: BFing moms

wow 4 oz is great...

I say if it seems he wants more, offer him more. It seems your milk supply is good so far which is great. As long as he is getting plenty of wet/dirty diapers every day and gaining weight then all is well!!

Re: BFing moms

Thanks for responding Jen. I guess this is the area I was most anxious/concerned about and when bfing from me didn't work, I am doubting everything I am doing. My ped. rec'd a lactation consultant, maybe I will go. I didn't know if anyone pumped and fed by bottle exclusively and if their milk supply could keep up.

Re: BFing moms

michele31 did - so she would be great to talk to about it.

It sounds like you are doing a great job so far, and doing all the right things. We are all here to support you and help as much as we can.

Re: BFing moms

I don't know much about your situation but I would highly recommend a lactation consultant because I bet a good one could help you get your baby to latch well.
I had to see one for other reasons and if I hadn't I probably would not still be BFing.
Congrats on your little one.

Re: BFing moms

thanks for the responses again and good luck with the "ferberizing"...I just read your post. I will try fming michele.

Re: BFing moms

here I am Welcome to the club.
The breast shield can really help you, but becareful that you FULLY empty your breasts with the pump after using it since you do NOT want any plugged ducts or infection.
here is a link with a TON of info for you
Flat Nipples
You CAN do this...I did it for a year. My baby had formula for 4 weeks and then after that NONE for the rest of the year. Let me know if you want my help. I can FM you my number and walk you thru this whole thing.

Right now you NEED to pump every 2-3 hours for 20 minutes with a hospital grade pump. If your milk is flowing don't stop pumping just because the clock says 20 minutes, but never over pump either...that can cause spasms.

An LC can help you with the nipples and is worth every penny!

Message edited 1/5/2006 10:40:35 PM.