Nursing Issues
Written by The Lassie
When I got pregnant, I was aware that breastfeeding had been an issue for the women in my family for generations. Unfortunately, in most cases there is no way for me to find out why most of the babies in my family have been bottle-fed. Only my aunt was able to enlighten me as far as her own story goes - her first child was very ill, so he was taken away straight after the birth and fed formula while apart from his mother. My aunt tried to feed both of her daughters when they were born, but to no avail - no milk would come. I was told that my mother also was unable to breastfeed my sister and me, but I never really found out any details about that. So during this first pregnancy, I was aware that I might not be able to nurse my child at all - I wanted to, mind you, but I told myself I would not beat myself up overly much if it did not work out for some reason.
So, up until the birth of my little girl, I felt quite confident that I would be able to arrange myself with formula feeding, if that’s what it had to be. Well, what can I say? I seem to have underestimated my subconscious grossly.
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In any case, after a long period of intense emotional struggle, my little baby and I now seem to have come to an agreement of sorts. I get to nurse her as long as she will tolerate it. When she is too tired to continue trying, she gets the bottle.
Phew…now that I am coming to terms with this chapter of raising my baby, I am focusing on having her close to me - I recently acquired a Sling and am now getting an advisor in for that as well, as I seem to struggle with the concept of binding it properly. Since I know it’s really good for my fella, though, I will keep trying. Pictures to follow, if success sets in 
July 1st, 2008 at 4:01 pm
Awwww, what a doll!!!! She’s so cute!!!!
melts….
Don’t give up mama, your efforts are just starting to pay off. Yes it does cause confusion when switching from one method to the other. Give her time. She just needs to work those muscles in her mouth until they become strong enough. Bottle feeding requires a different set of muscle movement than breast feeding. Breast is what God and nature intended, so I figure there has to be a reason why. On the other hand don’t feel guilty if you find that you can’t nurse her that way. It will take some adjusting to do for her but before long you will notice she will be nursing like a champ! Oh and during the first few months it isn’t uncommon for them to tire easy or sleep lots. Most babes will be that way up to 12 weeks. Feeding is a tiresome routine for them no matter which route they feed. They are still learning the suck, swallow, breathe routine and it takes time to get everything down pat. She might be fussy at first while feeding because she’s really hungry and wants to rush things. Yet she’s coming to an awareness that she’s still needs to learn the process. And don’t worry about wether she’s getting enough or the right caloric amount or nutrient content with going breast. As long as she is wetting, pooping, and seems satiated she’s getting what she needs. And before to long she will start putting on a little weight at a time. She will feed more frequently to or atleast in my case I found that true. Also breast fed diapers are different in constitency and amount, not to mention color or smell. So don’t be alarmed that they look different. Sorry you recieved some bad info when you were both getting started and it confused the process. Now you just wait! When she starts teething and getting in teeth just let me know. This breast feeding mama has a trick or two that will ease all your worries and dodge it being a pain. Don’t forget to get some cream for your nipples. Ask the pharmacist what he recommends; it must be safe for baby. I say, lol, cream did help when I was getting used to breast feeding! Probably could google it as well,
. You two have done very well! Keep it up!
ps…I know this will cause some out there feathers to ruffle because it is debatable. I think pacifiers confuse the breast feeding process. Some moms have been able to use them, mine never did. Plus I also think they’re just one more gimick on the market that begs us to throw our hard earned dollars on. Babes are just fine without them. After a few weeks mine were able to get their fist to their mouths and when needed chewed or sucked on that, not to mention toes too…lol. Ok I’m off my block! I just wanted to make you awares in case it adds to the confusion she already is having. Unfortunately they don’t come with manuals and there is no one right way to rear them. We just have to do as we feel best! Again Congrats to you and the Laddie!
September 18th, 2008 at 3:36 pm
Just wanted to say (while I take a break at work for pumping) that I totally understand your desire to nurse as much and as long as you can. It is truly a beautiful thing and I’ve definitely cried a lot of tears over it (more with my first child than this one) — both tears of joy and of pain and frustration. But despite all of the difficulties, I kept it up to 9 months with my first, and I hope to at least go that long with #2. Wish me luck. Good luck to you, as well!