We took Lorelai back to see Dr. May this week. We all had bets on how much she would weigh because she really seemed to be putting the weight back on. She weighed in at 6 lbs 10.5 oz, just above her original birth weight. What a relief!
The doctor wanted me to start trying to breast feed again because we thought my milk was coming in (I had just had a pumping session where I generated about 1oz of milk). The plan was to start her on the breast and then top her off with a bottle until I was creating enough milk to sustain her, roughly 15oz per day.
She latched on just fine but wasn't getting anything but frustrated so I fed her the bottle and pumped. I only got teaspoons again. I was devastated and called the lactation consultant, Robyn. Robyn was concerned because I should have been producing more milk so she recommended I get a blood test done to check for a few things that could hinder milk production...retained placenta (HCG levels), testosterone, progesterone and thyroid levels. I went yesterday for the tests and should hear something back by tomorrow afternoon.
Until then we will continue to bottle feed and pump, adding what I do get with the pump to the bottles.
Member comments
First, I'd like to say, welcome back! I was hoping everything was going good with Lorelai's weight and that is great to hear that she's back up to her birth weight!
Breastfeeding is one of the hardest things to manage sometimes, it is so frustrating and the more frustrated you get, the more stress, and ultimatley less milk. At least that is what the specialist told me because I did the same thing going round and round with it! Keep trying and try to relax, as hard as that sounds, it will all work out!
Live, Laugh, Love
Alicia ~ Regan and Lexi's mom
So good to hear her weight is up, that is a big relief! I want to give you a big hug for sticking with trying to breastfeed. I myself breastfeed and would be glad to offer and support I can if you need it along the way. It is great your doctor is helping you figure out what may be causing the low milk production. My heart goes out to you having to deal with this while adjusting to the whole world of being a new Mom, it is not easy even with things going as planned! If it turns out you will not be able to nurse then you will know you did everything you could and that is all that counts, you are a great Mother and before long Lorelai will be gaining weight steadily. Good luck and please shout if I can help at all!
Congratulations on getting Lorelai back to her birth weight! Good job, mommy!!! I bet that IS such a relief!
Alicia is SO right though, breatfeeding is so hard to manage, but I totally commend you on your determination and effort. Soon, though, you will have your results which will hopefully lead you to the direction that you need to go. Keep staying strong, and give that little sweetheart kisses from all of us!
Rhonda
(Sammy's mom)
Back to birth weight is fantastic news!
I'm so sorry you are having so much frustration with the pumping and breastfeeding. I remember how horrible it felt to not be able to get the supply going. I wish I had a secret to impart, but I really just have lots of hugs to share.
And at the end of the day, if it doesn't work out, give yourself permission to give up. I also know just how hard it is to say that you can't do any more, but it's perfectly acceptable. (I'm not saying you should quit! I'm just saying that if you WANT to throw in the towel that is your absolute right as a mom and you'd have my complete and utter support!)
Jessica
http://www.roseslife.blogspot.com