I want to re-lactate for my 8.5 month old twins

[boopie2001]

Let me give you a somewhat brief history. I had by twins at 34 weeks by c-section after a very difficult pregnancy. I was not allowed to breastfeed either baby for quite a while after the birth. Also, family members interfered with my breastfeeding relationship and I relied heavily on supplements. I never developed a great milk supply but was able to produce some especially at night. I was able to nurse some for about 4-5 months especially while my husband with working out of town for two months. When he returned, things started to take a nose dive. At 6 months, my pediatrician stated that after 6 months the babies don't absorb any of my antibodies anymore. With that info, my husband pressured me to stop. Then over the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays, we went to the in-laws. I could not get a hold of my babies. It was ridiculous. They would pass the babies to everyone so I could not get much time with them, especially for breastfeeding. Everyone wanted to feed the babies bottles instead. Well, that was the kiss of death. Now I barely make drops of milk and I really miss the nursing relationship I had.

Is there any way I can re-lactate or should I just throw in the towel. I will not be visiting family for some time. I really miss seeing my babies thrive on my breastmilk. These babies went from 5 lb. preemies to 18 & 22 lbs. They have since caught up to their chronological age for the most part. Is there anything I can do? Has anyone been successful with re-lactating so late?

Thanks in advance for any responses.

[cdahlgrd]

You can try. You might not make a full supply, but any breastmilk will give your children tons of benefits (protection against a lifetime of diseases, obesity, current colds and flus, etc.).

You will need a really good double pump. I would rent one from a hospital. They are more variable than the portable ones I have seen (although the new ones may be better, I am not sure). Then start pumping every 2 hours for 15-20 minutes. It is oK if you don't get anything. Bm is demand driven, so the more your body hears, "Need more milk, please." the more your body will make.

After a few days of pumping on a regular schedule, I would start nursing the babies. You will probably want to nurse them for awhile and then pump after they are done, so you get lots of stimulation.

You can also drink mother's milk tea, eat oatmeal, etc.

Don't stress too much about it, that won't help. Just do what you can, and be happy with the results. Any breastmilk is better than no breastmilk!!

[puddle]

Relactation definitely *can* be done! Some women are able to produce a good milk supply for adopted children even when they have never been pregnant! I think it's definitely worth doing. Your babies are still so young--you could have years left in your nursing relationship. I would definitely try to find a local LLL meeting our other support group because this could be tough with an unsupportive spouse.

Here is some good information on relactation from kellymom.com
Good luck to you and let us know how it goes!