Breastfeeding

We made the decision to breastfeed Elanor. It's the hip thing to do and there are many benefits, it's good for her, it's portable and free, it's good for me and it's bonding. It's also an interesting commitment and another layer of 'things to worry about' when having a child. I didn't realize how touchy a thing like 'milk supply' could be. I can't really complain because I've had a good experience compared to some of the Mommy's I know but I will share my thoughts none-the-less.

My milk came in quick and I was engorged for about 3 days. During this time I massaged in the shower, worried about clogged ducts, slept with washcloths in my bra, during the day I put cabbage leaves in my bra... it was very interesting. I also pumped a TON of milk for storage. I was therefore certain that 'milk supply' would not be and issue for me. WRONG.

I started trying to 'schedule' my daughters feedings within the first two weeks of her life because I wanted to be "babywise". I can't blame the book, I think I applied my normal perfectionist tendencies to the process and tried to focus to much on time and not enough on full feedings. What ended up happening is my milk supply dropped sharply after a few days of doing this. It was such a shock when I realized that I wasn't able to give Elanor full feedings. She survived and was still gaining but it took a lot more effort all of the sudden.

I got a couple tips from my Lactation Consultant that really helped. First, I started taking an herbal blend that boosts milk supply. I took the liquid form they have at Whole Foods and that worked great. However, it's a bit of a pain because you can't drink for 20 minutes before or after and I am a constant drinker. Because of this I started taking the herbal capsules and that works well too. It's not as immediate and profound but it's easier and still effective. I ran out this week and noticed a difference during the gap.

I also let Elanor feed more often and 'pacify' at the breast. That helped. I pumped a couple times a day (usually I only do this after the morning feed). I also pump both sides at the same time because it's supposed to help stimulate the milk production hormones with more intensity.

I feel like things are good and steady now but it's always on my mind.

Oh, and then there's food and drink. I was SO looking forward to being able to drink again after Elanor was born, even if it was only a glass or two it would have been a nice freedom. Unfortunately anything more than one glass and she gets cranky. I don't even like to 'pump and dump' because there is nothing that is worth going into the evening with a cranky Elanor so it's not worth the potential that the next feed will still be tainted.

Also, she is sensitive to milk and something else I haven't figured out yet. I feel awful that I've broken out her face twice due to my milk consumption. Also, there is something in my diet giving her gas at night that I'm not sure about. I think it has to be one of the vitamins I'm taking because it's the only consistent but I don't know for sure yet.

I just have to say THANK GOD she doesn't seem to have an issue with coffee!!!

All in all I'm glad we decided to breastfeed and I would really like to make it at least 6 months. Sometimes it's hard but I am glad we decided to do it.