i mixed fed my son for 2 and a half months, and stopped a month ago as i was having trouble with v.sore nipples, i really regret stopping now and i wonder if i can start again, even if its only a few feeds a day, he wont suck from my breast at all now, is that because hes not getting milk or he has forgotten how? is there any chance he would start again? i reallly want to do this but i can't afford to hire pumps, and ive only got a manual one. any suggestions? do i have a chance or should i just be resigned to the fact i missed the chance? i feel really bad about this, (more for our bond than his nutrition, as he is thriving, hes doubled his birthweight (7.11)in 15 weeks ) any info would be welcomed. thanks.xxx
You need professional help from a Board Certified Lactation Consultant. Formula will cost you a great deal more than renting a pump and hiring an LC. Here www.iblce.org or www.breastfeeding.com or www.lalecheleague.org (you will get volunteer NONlactation consultant breastfeeding support from LLL, but some LLL leaders are skilled enough to help with a relactation. Most are not, and they should refer you to an LC.) You have NOT missed your chance. I have helped womyn breastfeed who have gone much longer than you have. But you HAVE to have the right help, and the right equipment. It will actually save you money in the long run. You say you can't "afford" a pump, but formula costs more. Call a Private Practice LC (NOT a hospital midwife or LC, as she will be too busy to take the 3-4 hours minimum you need to do this and not all British midwives are trained in advanced lactation situations.) ALso, some LCs have a "grant pump" program if your income certifies. Meaning you can get the pump for a reduced to free rate in some cases. Good luck. This can be done. I've seen it.
my friends little one had formula for the first few months after going off the boob...mum was busy and didn't fit into the baby's schedule, anyhow at four months bubba decides that she doesn't want any of that when she can get the good stuff from mum and so she went back on the breast for a while!! everything Maggie said sounds good so I think if you really want to just stick with it and keep trying....if ultimately it doesn't work please don't stress too much though as you sound really caring and like you have all the right things happening with your bub as you are taking such care!!
hey wayfaring!! Maybe you could volunteer to be a breast pump for enigma to get that milk flowing again.... ....urkle, now what made me think of that....:X *wanders off shaking head about boys*
