nursing without milkies...

[mamaChe]

Ok. So I was devastated after learning I couldn't nurse DC#1 due PCOS/IGT issues tried the herbs, pumping, nursing, supplementing thing for 6 weeks before I had to go back to work and I just couldn't keep it all up/didn't think it was worth it/didn't think bf'ing w/o milk was an option (and DD didn't really go for nursing sans milk). Did lots of research before DC#2 and have managed to up my supply but not at all enough for life without supplementing (about 1/4 oz- agh..) This time around I'm using an SNS which is great. Life with a baby happy at the boob-- now I know why BF'ing is such a big deal! DC#2 also likes being at the boob even with no milk...

Problem is once my goat's rue and all are gone, they are gone. We've only got money enough for formula OR herbs and we'll ALWAYS need the formula. So, yeah, that's how it goes.

Question is: Anyone have an experience with a nursing relationship that's just about comfort from the get go?? How'd it go?? How'd other people take it??

Thanks all

[brightonwoman]

A friend of mine had no supply at all. She went through major emotional struggles with it I know, but she was a bottle-feeding nurser for both her kids. You can read a little about her situation on my blog here. I was one of a half dozen moms who pumped milk for her. we couldnt' provide nearly enough, but at least we were able to give her some. Every bit is nice. But, as you realize I'm sure, there is more to nursing than breastmilk.
My post really talks about it better, but basically the best thing you can do is maintain all the other aspects of breastfeeding--cuddling, eye contact, touching, etc. I don't have personal experience with it, like I said, but I can try to find my friends email for you if you'd like to talk to her (PM me). I have since moved to another state so I don't see her anymore, but I think I could dig up her email someplace. I know where her blog is!!!