How to introduce solids without BFing issues?

[marcib28]

I'm wanting to start solids a little bit here and there. I have had major plugged duct issues since he was born and still am. I now only get about 3-4 a week instead of 3-4 a day like I used to. I'm on lecithin and am trying to drink as much as I can. I am worried about starting solids though. Won't that cause more plugged ducts? I was thinking I could pump instead, but I don't want my body to think that the milk still needs to be made... How did you start solids without dealing with an oversupply? tia!

[maddymama]

Hi Mama,
First, wait for your baby to show that he is truly ready for solids... The new Womanly Art of Breastfeeding has a good chapter on starting solids in it. One of the things they mentioned is to wait for the baby to grab food off your plate and put it in his mouth as a sign of readiness. Also, know that for the first few months food is for playing with taste and texture, and is not for nutrition. Your LO might not eat more than a tablespoon at a time for a long time, which is far from an amount necessary to seriously cause engorgement or plugged ducts. If I'm doing my math right, your LO is just now turning 6 months old.... there is no need to start solids right now, wait and follow your LO's lead.
If you want to try to avoid plugged ducts, try to nurse before you offer solids. Also, I'm sure you've though of this, but try different bras, baby carriers, etc. to see if one of those is your "culprit" for plugging your ducts.
Good luck!
~maddymama