Relactating?

[letabug]

Well I guess technically it isn't relactating, because my son is only 8 weeks old and I can still express a little milk meaning a drop or two. My son has been transfered to a children's hospital due to a virus once since birth and now has a cold and is miserable. I think my milk would make him healthier so I want to try to get him to nursing he was "breastfed" for 4 days after birth but then he started screaming all the time and never latching on, my mom and husband begged me to give him a bottle so I broke down and got him one and he has been on formula since then.

I emailed the LLL leader in our area this morning 5 am mind you that is why I didn't call! So I am waiting for her to get back to me. I have the "The Breastfeeding Answer Book" b/c I am reading it for my Doula certification so I know I need to boost my supply...herbs, tinctures, teas, oatmeal and lots of water. I know I need a SNS, and double hospital grade pump. And of course TONS OF SUPPORT, which my husband is now offering! My family still thinks bf is gross so that is out of the question but we live 3 hours away anyways.

I have a 21 month old son in addition to the 8 week old, so what do I do now? I am on birth control pills so should I stop taking them? I have the mini pill too so should I switch to that or go nothing at all?

Any suggestions or words of support are appreciated!

[MamaTT]

First of all, I think it is fabulous that you are relactating for you ds! I do think that you have a great chance of succeeding in re-establishing your supply. I think www.kellymom.com has some great tips about getting a baby to the breast that has been fighting it. I have to run now, my boys are crying, but good luck!

[Peony]

BC pills will decrease supply, especially if they are not the mini pill, and even that will decrease supply in some women. I can't tell what what to do, but if it were me I would go without. Hopefully the LLL leader got back to you today, if not call her in the am, some don't check e-mail daily. It sounds like you know what you need to do, but just need encouragement. You are doing such a wonderful thing, every drop of milk is gold. Please keep us posted, and come anytime you need support. Sorry it's short, not much time.

[dziejen]

I would love to offer some encouragement. Moms who have never lactated have been able to induce lactation so you have a good chance at being successful and any amount of milk your son gets will be beneficial. It is a big task but one that will be worthwhile for you and you sound well-armed and informed. Birth control pills can decrease supply but relacting while pregnant can be difficult as well so be mindful of that too! One more element to add to your list would be rest!! I know it is hard with two little ones but try to take time to put your feet up or get a quick nap in when you can. Has your baby latched on? You may want to take some time and spend it skin to skin -- even crawl into bed with him undressed and you topless -- some babies will latch on and that too will increase your milk coming. Good luck! I give you a lot of credit for your dedication!

[TopazBlueMama]

Good luck-you can do it.

Usually the biggest task is trying to get the baby to latch and stay latched for a few minutes (or seconds at first!) at least, several times a day. And of course pumping in between that if he doesn't nurse.

My big successes at first were in the mornings. So if you aren't co-sleeping right now, I would definately start. For a while anyway. That way you can try to get him latched on right when he is at that just beginning to stir-but still not wide awake stage. It's the best time. Try to not use pacifiers if you have been, and just pacify at the breast. But really try to take advantage of that morning time! That is when your breasts are the fullest too.

I hope you'll be able to get him latched on!! Good luck!

[corysmilk]

I don't have any real advice I just wanted to say that I think it is great that you are trying to relactate.
Yeah, right on mom. you can do it!!
It may be hard but nursing your little one will bring it's own rewards
all the best of luck to you,
Please let us know how you are doing

[Jennisee]

No new advice, but I wanted to say good for you and good luck!