Breastfeeding - Tuba City, AZ

Hi M.,
First thing I would recomend is to go to a breasfeeding class, they are not very expensive and they give you a lot of information. I didn't take on and wish I had to make things easier on me when I started to breastfeed. They'll give you a lot of information about getting a good supply of milk, latching on, etc.
Good luck and be patient, once you start breastfeeding it might take a couple of weeks before it's pain free but you'll get there.

my advice is to keep at it no mater what. I breastfed all my kids. I just had my 4th child 6 weeks ago and had sore nipples for the first 3 weeks. I read the advice from some of the other ladies and all of it is great from the teas for more milk to the creams for sore nipples. you will do fine if you just stay determined and don't give up.

I don't know that there is anything you can do prior to prepare. But I can say that if you can get past the 1st 2 weeks of pain it should be smooth sailing after that. With my 3rd I cried everytime I had to feed her the first couple of weeks because the pain was so bad but I stuck it out and it paid off I was able to breastfeed her for 13 months. Hang in there that is all the advise I can give you it does it less painful! Good luck!

Fenegreek (the spice...but also found in capsules in health food stores) can increase milk production. Hospital births and polices decrease breastfeeding success...home birthing with midwifery support has a better record...but if you are going to the hospital (as most American women think they must) at least find a hospital with real effective breastfeeding support...even AFTER you leave the hospital...like a hotline...or better yet...a person to come and see you at home!
If the place you are going to does not have that...hire your own lactation specialist to come and see you...they charge by the hour...do home visits...and are worth it. You can find them online..or see La Leche League etc for referrals. Midwives...even if you do not use one...will gladly make recommendations for free as well. They helped me with miscarriage advice for free.
Latch probs are common...see info on infant self-attachment. These little newborns have instinctive programming to latch on if we just give them more opportunity for skin-to-skin contact and time to reach the nipple themselves. Hospitals and even some midwives are in a hurry to see the infant at the breast...they do not allow time for this. See swedish studies on this. or google baby/infant-led breast feeding. Let nature help you! There is all this info on directions for moms concerning latching, switching breasts etc...take a break from some of that. :)

Hi there, 1st of all CONGRATS on baby 2nd That is great you are going to breastfeed!!!! Do not let what happened in the past interfere, get some Lansinoh (thats the best brand) lanolin breast cream you can get it at target walmart walgreens you can put it on right now if you like, the brand Lansinoh also makes the best nursing pads. Read all you can on breastfeeding and as soon as you have that baby ask to speak to a lactation nurse!!!! DO NOT get upset if it takes a bit of time you can do it! There really arent any foods that will help with the milk just you being relaxed will let that milk come down, if you must pump get an electric one much better than hand held!! CONGRATS!!

I had the same problem. There are covers you can buy to put on your breast, and the baby sucks on the insert niple. I forgot what they are called. But the milk is able to follow thru. They look like little plastic covers you just put over your breast. It helps protect your nipple and avoids the pain. Good luck!!!

Cynthia

Nursing is easy it just takes consistency and dedication. Have someone work with you while you are in the hospital or look up someone from La Leche League.

For soreness: use Lansinoh nipple cream every time you nurse or shower and dry your nipple completely after nursing. It takes a few weeks but the soreness, bleeding, and cracking will clear up. Just know that it takes time and you have to stick to it.

Lactation: Fenugreek or Mother's Milk tea, drink alot of water, and pump at least once a day to ramp up production. My mother, grandmother, and great grandmother swear hot tea with cream filled sandwich cookies (vanilla) do something to make your milk flow better. It works for me. When really desperate, drink a beer.

Food: Eat a alot of fresh fruit and veggies

Remember, hang in there and stick it out...it's worth it!

I used Lansinoh lanolin ointment on my nipples at night for the couple of weeks leading up to my due date with my second child. I had scabbing and cracked nipples with my first so I also used it after every nursing session. After my supply was established, I bought an electric Medela pump this time around instead of using the Avent hand pump I had used previously. Both made a huge difference as far as nipple soreness and cracking.

I didn't have any difficulty with latching either of my sons on-- they both knew what to do on their own but not every baby does. Try contacting the La Leche League if you encounter the same issues this time. http://www.lllofaz.org/ If you're having trouble while you're still in the hospital, there's no shame in asking for help from a nurse or a lactation consultant. That's what they're there for.

Best of luck! =)

I breastfed all four of mine for 9-26 months. I had sore nipples with everyone in the beginning. They gave me creams, ointments to put on them at the hospital and it really helped. I had an easier time nursing my two boys then my two girls but my second child had a terrible time latching on. It took forever for a long time. But I hung in there and I ended up nursing her for two years. Best of luck to you!

You might try Lansinoh lanolin cream, or bag balm, and start rolling your nipples between thumb and index finger gently several times a day for a minute or two to toughen them. Start soon. La Leche League can help with a lot of good info. Good Luck, and Enjoy your new bundle of joy!!

For the last new weeks before my son was born, I put Lansinoh lanolin cream on my nipples every night. After my son was born, I used the lanolin EVERY time he nursed. As long as it's pure lanolin, you don't have to wipe it off before nursing. I got a little sore a few days in but my nipples never cracked and breastfeeding was a realtively comfortable thing to learn. Be sure to bring the Lansinoh to the hospital when you deliver! I swear it made a world of difference for me and I happily nursed my son for 18 months. Being that your nipples don't hurt so bad, I think learning the latch is easier. You might try taking a breastfeeding class. They're usually available at hospitals. Also be sure to utilize the lactation consultants in the hospital after you deliver, they can really help as well. Congratulations of your new baby and I hope breastfeeding goes well for you! It's a wonderful experience for both of you. Take care :)

If you can get away, start attending the Thursday breastfeeding support group at Presbyterian Hospital. 11am(or whenever you get there!) every Thursday. It's free and a lot of fun. I gave birth at Lovelace but was directed there by my lactation consultant. E-mail if you have questions. You can come now and definetly after your baby is here. There are from 6-20 women there each time. ###-###-#### K. Ingro - me.
*It's on the 5th floor. One also just started on the westside - by Peter Piper Pizza - twice a month - free too - both w/ lactation consultants!

Go to www.milksmile.com -- it's a store that specializes in breastfeeding. It's a bit of a trek if you not in the east valley, but it's worth it. There are 2 lactation consultants there who have a wealth of information, plus, the offer free breastfeeding classes for women who are expecting. They'll help you with latching correctly too. I've worked with Mary, and her Email is ____@____.com. I really like them because their not pushy, and they respect the needs and decisions of the mother. There's also a couple of other stores in the valley, you may want to research.

There are also several websites that have videos that show correct techniques. One in particular is breastfeeding.com -- I found it helpful with my first, the videos on latching were great. I suggest reading as much as possible -- The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding is a good resource; I did find it a bit annoying though, since all throughout the text, they are promoting themselves, La Leche League, and for you to join support groups. However, they do provide good support groups, if you are in need -- the only thing is that they are very, very into solely breastfeeding, no matter what.

Also, it's really tough the first couple of weeks -- but if you stick with it, there are rewards. I was constantly applying lanolin, by Lansinoh on my nipples, moisturizing and a bit numbing. And yes they were sore, dry and cracked. After about 1 week, they were fine, and thus far I've been very successful in nursing both of my boys. It's worth sticking with it, at least until they are 2 months old so they get great nutrition. Not to mention is practically free and without the hassle of formula.

Other pointers are to drink a lot of water, keep you calories up, and wear a bra with no under wire. With my second, he's been reacting to certain foods that I eat with extreme gas and rash, so I've had to cut a lot out of my diet, including dairy, soy, eggs, peanuts, berries and citrus. Hopefully he'll grow out of this, but in the end, breastfeeding will definitely be better for his health! As far as I know, my first only had issues with dairy, but every baby is different. For sure though, stay away from the obvious -- caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, etc.

Great products that I use are a nursing pillow called "My Brestfriend", it's perfect for nursing, and you can get it at Baby, Mother and More or online. Recently, I've gotten a "hooter hider" which is a nice way of being discrete while nursing in public.

As for pumping, pumps aren't nearly as effective as baby nursing, so it's not a good way of gauging production. The body is an amazing thing, and as long as you nurse 'on demand', you will make enough milk for the needs of your child who is much more effective than a pump. Pumping is a good way of creating a stock and increasing your supply if needed. And, make sure that your pump is hospital grade, which help you extract as much, as efficiently as possible.

Don't worry about milk production right now, just take great care of yourself. If you need, there are teas and supplements that increase production, located at health food stores. However, it has been found that the herbs used can possibly make baby fussy, so be aware.

Hope this helps and good luck!

First I must say 'CRACKING, SCABBING, BLEEDING AND EXTREME PAIN WHILE NURSING ARE NOT NORMAL' EVER!! Sensativity from hormone changes and nipple sretching are normal, but you should not ever dread feeding your baby.

I am a Lactation Consultant and own one of the above mentioned Breastfeeding stores in East Mesa.

If you are even slightly sensative to Wool,(makes you itchy, get a rash etc.) the Lansinoh or other Lanolin products can actually CAUSE more harm than good. I'd recommend a more natural cream like Motherlove Herbals Nipple Cream. I have it, and can mail it very easily.

From NOW until you are finished nursing no more washing your nipples, no soaps, no lotions or potions at all!! You have glands on your areola that produce a light oily substance and you DO NOT want to wash/scrub it away. Obviously soap will run past your nipples when you wash your hair, that is OK, just don't intentionally wash your nipple area. No you will not get stinky-boob.

ALSO I'd pick up some Medela Hydro-Gel pads and ask for GEL pads at the hospital. They basically go over the nipple after nursing to help seal in your moister, protect and heal the tissues.

If you do get cracks or bleeding DO NOT LET a scab form, keep it moist with cream and gel pads. If you form a scab, every time you nurse or pump it rips off making a fresh wound, over and over.... it takes 10x longer to heal.

If you go to www.medela.com you can search for a lactation consultant in your area. Find one, and talk with her BEFORE you have your baby! Do not wait to see if things go good, or not. I also LOVE Doris Christiansen ###-###-####. You could come see me, but that is way to far to drive with a new baby. You can call for free advice anytime ###-###-#### or message me. Good LUCK! J. at www.everymotherandchild.com

Hi M.,
You wont get very much milk at first at least I didn't. I only got 1-2 ounces as well and then my milk came in about a week later and then it really came in and finally tapered off and really only produced the amount my baby needed. The pain is a rough part to get through. What I did was breastfed in the hospital and when I came home I pumped for a couple of days, my nipples healed and I personally didn't have any problem after that. What the release nurse at the hospital told me was to NOT wash my breasts with any type of soap or body wash at all as that would dry them out. Just wash above your chest and let the soapy water fall over them. And when possible after your baby feeds just air dry your breats as the milk acts as a natural moisturizer or there are also ointments you can purchase over the counter which helped as well. Once you get past the first week maybe 2 weeks it should be smooth sailing from there. Good luck and congratulations. D.

try calling the ladies at the local La Leche League - they are listed in the phone book - they offer excellent advice and support for nursing mothers - I nursed all three of my sons and each time had to go through a short period of soreness and discomfort as my nipples got used to the sucking action - both before and after birth massaging them helps to relieve pressure and soreness - it's okay if they leak - rubbing some of your own milk on them helps some to keep the scabbing down - but mostly its just your body adjusting and forming callouses like you get on your hands or feet from use and wear - good luck

I have a two week old and the first few days of breastfeeing were very frustrating because he wasn't latching on well. The lactation consultant at the hospital gave me a medela nipple shield which made a world of difference! Now, my baby is usually able to latch on to the nipple without the shiled, but he also nurses well with the nipple shield if needed. It tends to draw out the nipple to give the baby a better surface on which to latch. I also put on the Lanisoh (sp?) cream on after each nursing which helps with the cracked nipples. I don't know about what foods you should eat, but drinking plenty of fluids helps increase milk production. My milk came in after about 60 hours. While in the hospital, I tried nursing every 3 hours, even though we were having difficulties with latching, that seemed to help. Don't be afraid to ask for help from the hospital staff, la leche league, or friends! Good luck!

Hi M.,

I commend you for wanting to breast feed and sorry to hear you had problems in the past. I didn't really have any problems, but I wanted to give you some websites that will probably be pretty helpful. www.llli.org is one, and the other is www.lllofaz.org. Both of theses sites have really useful information and you can ask questions to lactation consultants too. Also, the hospital I delivered at (in Houston) had lactation consultants and I had one come to my room to help me out with pumping since my baby was preemie and was in the NICU and being fed with a tube. Also, I would see her in the NICU when my baby started latching on and she was a great help! Your OB will probably know if there are lactation consultants at your hosptial. Good luck and God Bless!

M.,
Wow, girl, I felt like you were telling my life story! I have three of my own with the same problems. First baby hurt like a baracuda latching on, so I pumped for about three months with my body schedule completely out of whack (pumped only 1-2 ounces then leaked three ounces ten minutes later!). My second child six years later was not much better and again latched on painfully so I pumped for a few months which hurt just as much as putting him to the breast. By the third try two years later, I was so eager to get it right this time. I contacted La Leche League and read up on everything once again. Gave birth on a Friday evening at Banner Desert and to my dismay...oops! No lactation consultants on staff until Monday! Needless to say, I was upset and so done with it all. I got to thinking about my sacrifices and what breastfeeding would be taking from my other family members, so I nursed only colostrum in the hospital for two days and dried my milk up as fast as it came in. Books and support groups are great, but breastfeeding is just not for everyone and certainly not as "natural and easy" as everyone says it is. Great health benefits, but you do what's best for you and your family. No shame in bottle feeding at all! God bless and best of luck to you with your third. May you have more success than I did!
Jen

From what I have read, preparing your nipples doesn't actually do much good. I would suggest instead that you find the services of a really good lactation consultant. She can help you get a good latch to prevent painful nursing. Lanolin after nursing is also invaluable.

I know what you went through - we had nursing problems at first, and the only way I could get through my baby's initial latch-on was actually by screaming because it was so painful. Thankfully we were able to work through it and he is still nursing at two years of age.

There are various "Mother's Milk Teas" and supplements that you can get at herb shops or health food stores.

Best of luck!!

I was in exactly the same situation. With my first two children, the pain was excrutiating and my nipples were craked and I bled more than the milk was produced. With my third, she did latch on properly but it took trying many different positions. The pain was still there, but I did not bleed. The good news is that the pain will only continue for a week or so. It comes from the milk ducts opening. I was able to breast feed my third child for six months which did save us a great deal of money and also allowed my body to get back in shape faster. I am now breast feeding my fourth child who will be two weeks old tomorrow and I am still felling a little pain, but it is nothing like what it was with my first two. My advice - use wash cloths to toughen up your nipples in the shower - get some Lansinoh lanolin for your nipples once the baby is born. It keeps them from cracking. Get some Motrin and for the first few days - take them every four hours as directed. It takes the edge off the pain without taking narcotics. Hang in there - it will get better and it is so worth it. The bonding with your child is so strong - nothing can compare - from experience.

What helped me was to consult with a lactation specialist a couple of times to show me how to get my baby to latch on and lots of practice. I remember it hurting pretty bad for a couple of weeks but once we got the hang of it the pain went away. Hang in there! I also found a product called pure-lan that really helped with dry cracked nipples. At around 6 months I started pumping but was not getting much. This to just took time-doing it consistantly until I was producing more. I also purchased a book called, New Mother's Guide to Breastfeeding, Joan Younger Meek--which helped me as well. Congratulations on your 3rd and best of luck.

First, find your local La Leche leader! Mine has been wonderful. She will be there for you once your baby arrives to help you through any issues. You can start going to meetings now. The most important thing to ensure success is SUPPORT! If you live in the Fountain Hills area, send me a msg and I'll give you my LLL leader's number. She's the best. Otherwise: www.llli.org

Second, start using Lansinoh on your nipples now to keep them from getting dry/cracked. Apply gently to avoid stimulating your nipples (can cause contractions). Continue using once baby is born -- it's safe and natural, you don't have to wash it off before breastfeeding.

Third, just committ now. Tell yourself, I am going to work through it, no matter what. I did that and though it was a rough first 3 or 4 weeks, it has paid off in dividends!!! My son will be one on Saturday and we have had a wonderful 11 months of breastfeeding since that first tough month. I look at moms with bottles and I'm like ugh, all that dishwashing! What a nightmare! Boobies rule!!!

If you have time to read with two kids :) I love The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding, and Martha Sears' The Breastfeeding Book.

Good luck!

PS -- just read other responses and wanted to note that I also saw two different lactation consultants and my LLL leader was a MILLION times more helpful than either, and she's free! It's a non-profit org dedicated to helping moms succeed with breastfeeding.

First, I really found LaLeche League helpful in getting the support and information I needed to be successful. THey provided me with phone support, monthly information meetings where I gained so much support, and letter support. I really recommend you contact them, find out where the closest meeting is (I traveled 75 miles to get to them) and attend. I think you will find what you need there to help you with all your questions and concerns. I wouldnt have managed without their help.

THere are herbal teas you can drink to help build milk supply, but I wouldnt do that until after baby is born. I would, however, start drinking red raspberry leaf tea NOW. It is helpful in so many ways. One well known herbalist says there would be far less complicated labors and birthing if all women drank the tea throughout their pregnancy. It is also good to drink afterwards...actually, for the rest of your life! :)

The most important things needed to produce milk are: baby sucking....the more baby sucks, the more milk is produced; and your getting enough rest, nourishment and fluids. THere are herbs that assist in milk production, too, if you need that boost. Fennel seed is one and there are others. (Fennes can also be good to prevent colic in baby, so it is a really good choice!)

The most important factor, I think, is totally accepting, wanting and believing in your ability to amply provide the milk your baby needs. It might be helpful to begin affirming this to yourself. Every day, at least 3-4 times a day, say (while looking in the mirror, if possible), "I am providing all the nourishment my baby needs. I have ample milk for all baby's needs. My baby is thriving on my milk." (always do affirmations in the present) Let this become your mantra! :)

Love and peace to you,
C.

M.,
Like you, I had trouble breastfeeding my first two children. Latching on problems with the first and my second was a preemie (I wound up pumping milk for her). I had musch better success with my third child thanks to a wonderful nursing staff at the hospital. I guess I was too shy/nervous to ask for help with the first two kids, but I asked for help with my third daughter and it made a world of difference. I wound up pumping when I went back to work so my husband could bottle feed her when I was gone and breastfed her when I was home.

The La Leche League has a lot of answers. Go to www.llli.org. Also ask to speak with the lactaction consultant at your hospital. I wonder if you can talk to her ahead of time? Worth a try. Blessings on your new baby!

Hello M.,

There should be a lactation Nurse at the Hospital you decide to give birth at. I strongly advise you to talk to the lactation nurse. They are the experts in helping you get the baby to latch on correctly and Breastfeeding should never hurt really bad or produce the cracking. If this happens, the baby is not latched on correctly. I have never had that problem, but I was always told if it were to happen, you need to keep the cracks from forming scabs by keeping them moist with wet washcloths and such. I have never been told about the gel covers for the nipples, but they sound very interesting. I breastfed my first for 6 months and my second for 10 months. I guess I am lucky that I haven't had a problem with my nipples yet during breastfeeding. I think there is a natural cream you can use on your nipples as well while breastfeeding that you do not have to wash off. I would really think about asking the center you deliver at to talk to a lactation specialist though. I did both times I gave birth. Each one has their own methods and not every child knows how to latch on properly, sometimes they need help in learning how to breastfeed. I was told both times that I was lucky and had the perfect breastfeeding nipples, which I was like, okay, not sure what that means, but thanks....LOL

D.

Hi M., Try using Lasinoh breast cream to help with the sore, cracking nipples. This stuff works wonders!!! It's a little pricey but you only need a small amount it's well worth the money! It cost about $8-$9 for 2 oz. tube...ask your hospital if they have some samples, thats how I found out about it! Buy some and have it in you hospital bag to take with you. Also be sure your hospital knows you intend to breastfeed. Most hospital support brestfeeding and may have a lactation consultant to help you while you are in the hospital(mine did). Ask about breastfeeding support groups too. Make it known that you plan to brestfeed and do not want any formula in your room so you are not tempted to supplement when tired or fustrated. You will have some soreness at first but it shouldn't last long. If the baby isn't latching on correctly that can cause alot of soreness and cracking. A way to tell baby is latching on correctly is to make sure as much of your nipple and areola are in the baby's mouth as possible not just the nipple. Baby needs the areola in his/her mouth to have proper suction to massage the milk ducts to produce milk. Milk production is all about supply and demand, if baby is latching on correctly, your body will produce enough milk for him/her. As far as pumps go...I would recommend that you don't use one unless you absolutely have to! I think it makes breastfeeding more complicated instead of easier. Remember if you are pumping instead of nursing you will not produce as much milk because the pump doesn't stimulate milk production as effectively as a breastfeeding baby does. If you are breastfeeding then pumping after, you will probably produce to much milk because you are telling your body it needs to produce more milk. I hope I helped you and not confused you, lol! Good luck and God Bless!!!

P.S. I have an 8 & 3 year old too =0)

Hi M.!

I breastfed both my children, but it can be difficult. I didn't do anything to prepare except for read up on breastfeeding. For cracked, sore nipples, use Lanisoh lanolin, it works wonders! In order to keep your milk flow, feed often. I know this sounds weird and it's an old wives tale, but drinking hot tea with milk really helped to keep my production up (maybe the relaxing helped?) For achining breasts, keep cabbage in your fridge. Put a leaf on each breast and that also works wonders. Pump if you get too engorged. If baby only eats from one side, pump the other. The pain only lasts a bit, remember, you may know how to breastfeed, but baby is new at it so it takes time. For both my kids it took 2-3 weeks to get to a good, pain free routine. Your hospital should have a lactation consultant. When you go in to deliver, ask for the consultant to help make sure that baby is latching on correctly. When my daughter was born, I almost gave up and the lactation consultant actually called my house! She answered the new questions I had, and encouraged me to keep on. Without her support, I would not have breast fed her for a year! Hope this helps!

Good luck and don't give up! Breastfeeding is the best and most convient way to feed your baby.

Hi M., I started putting "Lansinoh" on my nipples about a month before delivery. After my son was born I put it on just after he nursed. My milk didn't come in for 6 days and not until I started pumping. I spent several days on the phone with a lactation specialist who was very supportive and suggested I take fenugreek which I did (got it at Pharmaca) with excellent result(I don't know if you can take it while still pregnant). She also told me 1 - 2 oz was pretty good production. If you are in Santa Fe call ManyMothers they are wonderful. Breastfeeding for me was very hard in the begining, I was actually shocked at how hard it was. My son is 10 months old and still nursing. Best of luck you'll love BF once you get the hang of it!

I would recommend Le Leche League International. Here is the website for AZ: www.lllofaz.org
I don't necessarily share all the same views as those who attend, but I have found it very helpful with my breastfeeding questions and problems.

Hey M.,

You've received great advice! Just wanted to tell you to definitely connect with the lactation consultant-they have the magic secrets to better latch-on, and some of them are totally counter-intuitive. Lansinoh is awesome. And, try to stick with it for more than a couple of days, even if you have to grit your teeth. Your milk supply isn't established in one or two days, so pumping probably isn't going to be very successful since it's less efficient than a hungry baby. I had ridiculously sore nipples with both of my kids. I cried when I nursed them in the first 8 weeks (not every time, but more than I wanted, I assure you:])I couldn't believe it happened twice-I thought I'd be an expert the second time around. But, breastfeeding is one of the most unnatural natural things to do-it is oftentimes a learned thing for moms and babies. So, if you really want to make this work, you're gonna have to tough it out. Honestly, I don't know any woman who hasn't had pain in the first few weeks of breastfeeding. I have heard painless initial breastfeeding has happened, but I don't know anyone who has personally enjoyed that experience. So, stick with it, momma!

Good Luck,

Al

Hi M., I have a 3 year old that I breastfeed for 14 months and a newborn, 3 weeks old. The pain just ended... I'm not sure you can avoid the pain. They gave me perscriptions at the Women's hospital for percacet and IBporfin (not sure of spelling) which helped some. I just kept doing the cream and even neosporin after she finishs and lots of air time. Also, you may leak A LOT so get some breast pads (I use the ones you wash in the laundry machine so it's not such a waste). It does hurt... try to stick it out its so nice being able to breast feed..(so much less expensive too!) helps them fall asleep easier when they just want a little sucking to calm them down.
Also, it does help to try the different positions so they are sucking on a slightly different spot each time. Good luck!

Absolutely, no question about it, call a lactation consultant. With my first baby, my nipples hurt so bad and he cried non-stop for 2 months. When I finally figured out he was losing weight, I called Doris Christiansen. website is pump-n-go.com She was a miracle worker! I ended up breastfeeding until about 16 months.
Then, baby #2 came along and I could tell right away in the hospital that we were having the same trouble. 2 visits and we were on our way! Baby #3 was much easier and I never needed Doris' help with him.
DO NOT assume that all lactation consultants are the same. They absolutely are not. The ones in the hospital are overworked (pagers going off every few minutes from someone needing help) and usually seem to have less experience than I know Doris has. None of the hospital ones could help me, so it was well worth it to pay for Doris. If Doris is too far for you (or you're too far for her since she does home/hospital visits)...ask her for a referral for someone in your area. She would know who was good on your side of town. It is a Must-Do. No amount of preparing and taking herbs can help the way she can.
I don't recommend just sticking with it until it gets better - get the consultant to make it better!
Chances are your milk production was low because baby wasn't latched and wasn't stimulating the milk production. When baby is latched right, he can get all the milk he needs (unless you have some medical condition or meds interfering which I doubt you do). Don't assume that the baby can only get as much as the pump. However, if baby isn't latched right, he can't get the milk he needs efficiently and that was most likely your problem.
I can't stress enough that this problem can be helped and really quite easily, but chances are you won't be able to do it alone. Find a very good lactation consultant now so you'll have her phone number ready when you give birth.

M. T, you may want to get in touch with La Leche League for ongoing support.###-###-####) It's very important that you get help from a lactation consultant through your hospital when the baby is born. There's good emphasis these days on helping mothers nurse in the first hour after birth. Also the women at Mama's Latte (TJ and Sibylle) are very good at getting babies well latched on.
###-###-####) Grandmotherly suggestions!

C.

Same here! I tried nursing my first two with no preparation at all. I figured it would just happen naturally. It was a dismal attempt and left me completely put off by the whole experience.

It took five years to get my courage up to try again with my third child. What made all the difference was attending a breastfeeding class. I thought breastfeeding was just going to happen naturally, but going to a class and becoming educated made the third try a completely different experience. I also had the help of the on-site lactation concultant available at the hospital where I delivered. I believe most hospitals have one on staff to help upon request.

I have since nursed my fourth and fifth babies and plan on nursing my sixth due in two months. I would really suggest using local resources available in the form of classes and lactation consultants. It should make up for your two previous experiences. I wish you the best! :)

It is all about latching the right way right from the start to prevent nipple soreness. The nipple should be lined up on the tongue of your baby, not rubbing against the roof of the mouth. To prepare you can harden your nipples by running the cold shower for a minute on them every day.
If you need any help, I do post partum health and wellness visits for my clients in the week after birth every day or other day I come help you, see how it is going. 1-2 hour visits. It is very helpfull to succeed with breastfeeding.
Good luck
G., certified doula

Leaving the last little bit of milk on your nipples and letting them air dry will help prevent sore nipples.
Vitamin E oil helps prevent cracking/soreness & speeds healing.

An herbal ointment made with calendula in a lanolin or petroleum jelly base is worth trying.

Tannic acid in black (caffeinated) tea "pulls soreness out". Soak tea bags in hot water, apply to breasts as warm as possible. Use as needed for up to three days. If soreness persists, check latch-on technique! Contact your breast-feeding support person. You may continue using tea bags after a one day break.

Your milk supply is dependent on how often you nurse. The more you nurse, the more milk. If you stop after a day or 2, you won't have much there for your baby.

J. Streit, Doula and HypnoBirthing Educator

I have nursed 4 babies (on my 4th now, she's 7 weeks old). I have always had cracked and sore nipples for the first few weeks. The thing that helped the most was being consistent with applying lansinoh after every feeding. It also normal to only be able to pump and ounce or two for at least the first month. Your body only makes what the baby needs and at that early age a baby can only 'hold' less than 2 ounces per feeding. As they get older and need more, your body will adjust and start making more.
To get off to a great start make sure and take advantage of the Lactation Consultants that the hospital has on hand. Call them to your room as often as you need. Let them know ofyour prior attempts at breastfeeding and that you really want to be successful this time. Good Luck and relax. It is hard at first, but gets better as the days and weeks go on..

The best nutritional supplement in the world for breast feeding is FENUGREEK. It help increase and produce supply. You can get it at any Health food grocery store. It is a bit pricey but very worth it.
Good luck! R. B

Call a lactation consultant. It costs much less than a year of formula! First, expect some pain. I have nursed three and it's just part of it at the very beginning. Cracking, scabbing, etc are normal and since you haven't nursed before it'll be like your first baby. Next, 1-2oz in those first days is also normal. You have not yet established a supply! So it's not that you weren't making enough. Your baby will get plenty from you and help you make more. Pumping in those first days is NOT a good indicator of your production abilities! For latching issues, call a lactation consultant! Good luck!

Definitely use the lactation consultants if at all possible. Get the number of a LaLeche League mother. They are great just to call and ask questions of. There is nothing really that you can do to prepare yourself, but relax. And remember to relax, relax, relax when you are feeding. I have found it frustrating at times and I think my sisters and I all agree the first month is the roughest. I used the Lansinoh liberally - as directed on the tube, not the tiny smear the nurses tell you in the hospital. That seemed to help a lot the second time around. I do think some kids are better at nursing than others. You might also want to Google "Jack Newman OB". He is a great resource for information. GOOD LUCK!

Hi M.!
I know many people have said stick with it, it will get better...it will! I nursed my first 2 children with no problem, but my third didn't latch on as well and I wanted to crawl out of my skin every time she started to nurse. I always said it was a good thing I had 2 positive experiences to get me through that tough time or I probably would've quit. I didn't quit because I knew there was a light at the end of the tunnel, and after a couple of weeks, we were both doing great. The pain will go away, just don't give up. You can do it!!!

Hi,
when I had my 5th child I finally found the answer to this problem. My nipples were cracked and bleeding and I just cringed at the thought of the baby latching on. I had my husband go to the store and purchase clear silicone bottle nipples. Then I cut off the tip (not to big a piece off) and put the SILICONE NIPPLE right on my breast. Then when the baby latched on it created a suction and it did NOT hurt or sting my breast whatsoever. I could be relieved of the milk I was producing, my baby could continue to nurse and have the benefit of breast milk and if I nedded to pump or have my baby take a bottle of formula for some reason then we would just use that type of nipple on the bottle (not cut of course) and my baby would take the bottle naturally. It did not take long for me to heal this way and I was able to return to normal nursing shortly and my baby would still take the silicone nipple bottle if needed! Tadah! This was a lifesaver for me!

Hi M.,

Use gel pads - they are miracle workers!! I like the "Soothies" brand from Walgreens (you can even cut them in half or quarters to get more use out of them), but any gel pads will do. I was cracked & bleeding when I started using them. I had been using Lansinoh (which helped some) but once I started using the gel pads they helped so much that I quit using Lansinoh altogether.

Something to keep in mind - at first it may take your little one a long time to nurse (it took me 1 - 1.5 hours to nurse my baby at first), but fortunately they do get faster over time. My baby is almost 4 weeks now and he is down to 30-40 minutes but I know he'll continue to get faster as he gets better at nursing.

BTW - My baby had learned to latch on properly but I was still feeling a little discomfort at the beginning of every breastfeeding session. I spoke with a lactation consultant at the hospital where I delivered, and she told me that once your baby learns how to latch on properly, it's still normal to feel some minor discomfort for the first few moments or so when you breastfeed your baby. (then the feeling quickly goes away) Good luck!!

There's a great book called "So that what there for" about breastfeeding. I took a breastfeeding prep class before my first was born. I am currently breastfeeding my third child and someone told me about the book just before my second was born. I read it as a refresher. It's a quick read and very light (sometimes funny). It covers all the basics as well as suggestions for the kinds of things your talking about. Highly reccomend it! Also, definitely get a tube of Lansinoh for the initial pain/ cracked nipples. It is amazing. It's safe for baby, even if you put it on after each feed and heals you in no time. There are teas that supposedly help with milk production. I drink Mother's Milk tea whenever I think to make a cup. It tastes like chamomile (spelling?) and I figure it can't hurt! Also, don't know if you tried before, but if you run into bumps in the road early on or later, I've found talking to a lactation consultant or joining a breastfeeding group (there's one at my library even) to get feedback/support from other moms is helpful. Good luck!

M.,

Congratulations on your soon-to-be-coming baby!

I've been a breastfeeding counselor for 10 years. I would be happy to do phone consults for free. I also do home visits, but I have to charge $25/hr for those. You can send a message back to me if you'd like references or just to talk about preparing for your new little one.

Hi M. -

There are many natural herbs and herbal formulas that you can use to aid in milk production and to treat your nipples so they do not become sore and cracked. Let me know where you live and I will let you know who or where you can go to get the answers you seek.

M. M. Ernsberger
Certified Clinical Herbalist

It sounds like your previous babies never got a good latch. Breastfeeding should never be painful. Maybe a little uncomfortable the first week or so, but never painful. If it is, the baby isn't latching properly. Cracked nipples are another sign that the baby isn't totally lathced on. The baby should be breast-feeding...NOT nipple-feeding. There is support at St. Vincent for breastfeeding Moms. I also have contact information for IBCLCs in the area. I could give you their number in case something more complicated is preventing a good breastfeeding experience, so that you have their numbers to call if and when a problem arises.
Keep in mind that every baby is different. I even know a Mom who had no trouble breastfeeding her first two children, and lots of problems with her third. She had to work diligently with a lactation consultant to succeed at breastfeeding her third. So, who knows, your next child may take to the breast no problem.
As far as preparing while pregnant, you could read books. The womanly art of breastfeeding is a great one (among many others). It will give you general information about what to expect and how to handle problems if they come up. But, really you can just wait and see how it goes, and make sure you have support from someone knowlegable about breastfeeding. You didn't mention what support you had with the last two births, but a doula or a labor nurse familiar with breastfeeding can be a huge help in the beginning. If your nurse isn't helpful, you can always ask for another one.
Please let me know if you want the numbers of IBCLCs in the area, or if you have any other questions. Good luck and congradulations on the new baby!!!

Consult a breasfeeding consultant or la leche league. The hospitals have people that can come in and show you how to breastfeed. Or if you use a midwife they can also work with you.

When it comes to pumping, dont worry about getting only an ounce or two. I consider myself a champion breastfeeder, nursing both my kids, one until 26 months and still nursing my 14 month old!--I also would only get 1 ounce per breast when pumping.. Stick with it!!!
It is so good for them and you.
I have the names of two breastfeeding consultants, (One being my mom!)
Takecare and good for you for planning ahead. When you are in the moment it is too easy to just give up!

You can watch free videos here to help you with your latch: http://www.breastfeeding.com/ . Also, you can drink Mother's milk tea to help with your milk production. It does hurt a bit in the beginning, but don't give up!!!!! Many babies have trouble latching the first few days, but trust me, they get it fast! Before you know it, you are both pros! Try contacting your local La Leche League if you find yourself ready to give up. you can do it!

Yes, it hurts... and there's no way around that. Sorry :( But 1-2 oz the first few weeks is usually okay!!! Don't get discouraged. Make sure everyone around you knows that this is a priority for you, and they need to do what it takes to help you out... watch the kids, make meals, give you alone time with the baby to really connect and find out what will work best for you and this baby. Every baby is different. I saw a lactation consultant in the hospital before I went home and had her number handy when I had questions or needed help and it was a lifesaver. I got her number from my midwife... maybe your physician has a contact like that for you. Good luck!

I also had some trouble breastfeeding - here is what I did - I hope it helps (I am in Mesa, AZ and if you ever want to chat- feel free to e-mail me ____@____.com - I found that support was the biggest help :-)
0- see if there is a La Leche League near you - you can attend meetings before your little one is born and get comfortable with the women there- then it will be easier to ask for help when the time comes. and READ good books on the subject so you can see what common problems are- then you are more aware if they start to happen to you.
1- ask to see the lactation consultant at the hospital - if there isn't one- ask to talk to the nurse with the most experience in breastfeeding. This doesn't guarantee success- but it helps you get started right. EVERYTHING changes when your milk comes in at 3-4 days. It is totally normal to only get a small amount in the beginning because they don't eat very much at one time. get some lanolin (there is a brand that comes in a purple tube you can get in almost any baby section) - it really helps with pain - I put it directly on the breastpad - then put that on. sometimes it hurts to rub it directly on your sore boobs.
2- I was having TONS of pain right after I got home from the hospital - I made an appointment with a lactation consultant 1 week after my son was born and it was the best $60 I ever spent! She identified where we were having trouble and gave me some strategies to deal with it. THe pump also helped - when I felt like I just couldn't take another feeding it gave me an alternative.
3- keep breastfeeding! If yo skip feedings or supplement your supply will go away instead of building up like it should. It is painful at first (I wasn't totally comfortable until about 3+months - but dealt with thrush and other stuff too :-( but it is so much easier than bottles once it gets more comfortable.

Get the book So That's What They're For by Janet Tamaro. When my midwife asked me if I had done any research and I told her I was just going to figure it out, she laughed at me and gave me that book. It told me everything I needed to know and I've now been breastfeeding for 4.5 months and love the special bond with my son. The book gave me encouragement to keep going through the hard part which was the first 3 weeks for me.

Here's the book on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Thats-What-Theyre-Definitive-Breast...

Also the Earth Mama, Angel Baby nipple cream prevented me from getting cracked or bleeding nipples. And it doesn't hurt the baby, so you don't have to wash it off like you do the lanisoh cream. http://www.earthmamaangelbaby.com/

And you only pumping 1-2oz at first is very normal. A newborn baby's stomach is only 2 oz at the most!

Good luck!

I will say that there is a period of 2-3 weeks of discomfort. Stick it out though, as the benefits are well worth the temp. pain. Your nipples are just getting used to being sucked on, they "toughen" up in a few weeks. Make sure that you ask the nurses at the hospital to help you with your baby's latch. I had one nurse spend probably close to 5 hours working with my daughter and me because she was having trouble latching on. If your hospital has a lactation consultant, ask for that person's assistance. Of course when I delivered they lactation consultant had called in sick. Because we were having so much trouble and I asked if there were any other resources for help, they ended up sending the lactation consultant from the NICU over to help me. It was a struggle at first, but by the time we left the hospital, we had just gotten the hang of it. My baby girl is now 3 months old and I love breastfeeding! It is such a warm, yummy feeling and time for she and I to bond. Hang in there and endure the pain for a few weeks and you'll reap the rewards in the long run! Good luck!

I also experienced difficulty breastfeeding my first child. I was very sore (cracked nipples and bleeding also), which led to me being stressed and frustrated and not able to produce enough milk. It was a chain reaction really. With my second child, I was determined to get through the rough part and succeed in breastfeeding her. She is 8 weeks today, and the nursing is going GREAT! That is not to say that we didn't have a few bumps along the way. I would recommend seeking help from a lactation consultant frequently after the birth. I went even if things were going well because I just wanted to check in and make sure things looked right to them. Also, using a nipple shield in the beginning helps tremendously with the sore nipple problem. Finally, you seem very determined which is half the battle. Just be really patient, and know that you CAN have a different breastfeeding experience than you've had in the past!

Good for you! You should be proud of yourself for wanting to do what's best for your baby in every way. Although it didn't work out before, this is a new opportunity and you will be much better prepared for breastfeeding success! For Latching on Success: Breastfeed as soon as you are able to after delivering the baby, immediately, if possible. No binkies or bottles, just the breast until baby is nursing like a pro (I waited a few weeks to offer a binkie with my 2nd after learning with my 1st that it made her forget how to latch on when I offered it on day 2, OOPS!). Also, TAKE ADVANTAGE of the lactation nurses in the hospital while you are there and after being discharged (you can call them that week, especially when your milk is coming in(engorgement)and they can really be of help when you are at home and having issues.)About milk supply issues: pumping milk with a quality breast pump will increase your milk supply, as it is SUPPLY and DEMAND when it comes to milk production. The more you nurse the more you'll make. Also, eat lots of DARK GREEN leafy veggies, drink "Mother's Milk" herbal tea, and they even have an herbal supplement at Sprouts for lactation, but I took fenu-greek, brewers yeast tablets and alfalfa tablets to increase my supply with my 1st baby, and of course lots of water. About cracked nipples: Ouch! Make sure to express milk on them and let them air dry, use lansinoh cream if needed (NEVER USE SOAP directly on the breast tissue while you are trying to prevent drying and cracking). I used breast pads in my nursing bras and that way there was so chaffing from not wearing a bra and excess lansinoh cream couldn't rub off on my clothes. I only had one cracked nipple with my 1st baby and I pumped until it healed, froze that milk for later and fed her from the other breast. The pump let the breast heal nicely with less pain and still kept my milk supply up! Hope this helped! Use your lactation nurses and never be afraid to ask for help. Nursing is so important and wonderful. Once you get over the first few weeks, it should be easy sailing! I nursed my 1st 19 months and am still exclusively nursing my 2nd baby who is 8 months old. No bottles to wash, no formula to buy, all the health benefits for you and your baby and you have on-the-go fresh, sterile, warm nutrition anywhere you go with nursing. God bless! :)