First Time Breast Feeder Need Major Help

I had a a lot of trouble breastfeeding in the beginning. My son just wasn't latching on. So, I pumped each meal for him. I called a lactation specialist to come to the house, and she really helped. I also used a breast shield which worked really well.

I hope this helps,
K.

I would call a lactation consultant. You can call the hospital where you delivered for a recomendation.

If worst comes to worst and you really want the baby to drink breast milk pump and let her drink it from the bottle. You were going to be giving her a bottle in between anyway just give all bottles with the breast milk.

Its not too late for you to breast feed! I think you should use a pump (the avent ones are comfortable) because if your breast is too swollen that may contribute to the baby having difficulty latching on.
this happened to me with my 2nd and I was able to get her back to breastfeeding but it was a rough couple days. the Baby might have nipple confusion. Just keep trying and don't give the baby any pacifiers or bottles because that causes the confusion.
Good luck

Hello S.,

If you're still having problem of getting your newborn to suck, you best pump out the milk if not you will have mastite which is when the breast in engulfed with milk and it hurts very much and it can be very painful to deal with.
Are you sure you have enough milk? and make sure when you're breastfeeding your child that she is in a comfortable position. If she feels that you are nervous or uptight, that may also be the reason she is rejecting it.
Most children accepts the breast with ease, it's a natural process. However in some cases if the mother has given the child formula milk in early stage, he or she may refuses the breast especially if the child is not able to suck enough to be satisfied and with formula they find it to be easy just to gulp.
I pumped out my milk especially for the nights I wanted to sleep and I breastfed for many months. I hope you've had luck since then.

Barbara

You can still do it! Keep trying for a few minutes every 2 hrs or so right before offering a bottle of breast milk. Make sure you are relaxed so she doesn't sense your stress. You also might have better luck at night even though it's hard to stay awake. Try to avoid pacifiers and ask your dr/hospital about the feeding options, so she doesn't have nipple confusion with the nipples from bottles (you can always introduce them later so she will take them when you have to go back to work) I have a friend who just started nursing her 3 week old preemie twins (3 and 2 lbs)it is slow going for her too, but they are learning, sometimes they just aren't sure what to do. Hope this helps a little, I struggled at first for about 6-8 weeks, but my daughter is 10 months and is still breast feeding 6-8 times a day. I read a few other responses and one of the problem might be that you are too full and your breasts are too hard for her to get a good latch, just another thought.

Hi there. I don't think it's too late and i would say keep trying. With my first daughter I had no problem with and everyhting went smoothly however my 2nd one was jandice and I had to stop breastfeeding her in the hospital and then she started to favor the bottle. I would still try giving her the breast but really didn't want anything to do with it so I wound up renting a pump at a local drug store. It took double the time to feed her but I felt better knowing I was givng her my breast milk. I have to say I only lastest 2 months but I felt better about it. Congrats on your new little one and best of luck. Also check with your insurance company some cover the rental cost of the pump.
G.

Hello S.,

First of all, it is definitely not too late, but as a few others have said, you need to get the milk out all your production will wane and you might get an infection. I nursed my twin girls for 12 months and the first 4 were the most difficult. I promise it gets easier! I recommend renting from a hospital - Medela double pump is the best. Also see a lactation consultant with your baby - she can tell you if the baby is properly latched and getting milk. I recommend not introducing the bottle before she gets a handle on bf or she may not want to nurse. Lots of luck!

R.

I know how frustrated you are. When I had my son, he started at the hospital too, but wouldn't continue. You
may have to face the fact that he might not want to.
I did try the pump also, and you have to be persistent,
to the point where it drives you crazy but he may take it.

The other option which I had to do, is face facts, and go to the formula. They have very good formulas now that have the same nutrients as breastmilk, wic will provide you with it, and it is very convenient compared to fighting with him/her, and the baby not eating. You need to figure out what is more important, waiting for him to take the breastmilk, or him eating. I know it sounds harsh, but my son didn't suffer from not getting the breastmilk at all.

It's never too late. You should start pumping to keep your milk flow going. Have you try laying next to the baby in bed with your breast expose for her? sometimes it takes awhile. give her the breast milk pumped in the meantime. Also, sitting in a nice warm bath with her on your chest just before her next feeding and she will look for something to latch on.

If you are engorged ( your breast are really full) it might be hard for her to latch. I suggest taking a hot shower or pumping a little to relive the pressure and soften your breast so that it is easier for you. Breastfeeding can be a little difficult to start, but when you get the hang of it, it gets much easier and it is so good for your baby so please don't give up! My daughter did not breastfeed at all for the first 2 weeks ( I had to finger feed) but we kept at it and eventually she got the hang of it and now it is so easy! If you are giving her a bottle it might be harder to nurse though, a nipple of a bottle requires less work to get the milk ( it basically drips into there mouth) so it requires much less work...some babies can switch back and forth between the two, others will refuse the breast once they are offered a bottle. If you have any questions send me an email or contact your hospital's lactation consultant. FYI: if you save the receipt from your breast pump, most insurance companies will reimburse you for some of the cost.

Hi there. I know breast feeding is such a challenge but it is the best thing you can do and it will work with persistance. I struggled to nurse my daughter, and even consulted a lactation consultant who came to my home. She told me its important to breast feed exclusivly at first if possible so your milk supply is not compromised. A tough thing I know, especially if you feel your baby is not getting enough. But it may take several days for your milk to come in, and you will know it when it does. Try to work through the pain, I remember how much it hurt, for a couple of weeks, but then you get "toughened up" and they won't hurt anymore. I am now expecting my 4th in May, and although I stuggled with my first, it eventually worked out, and my next two were much easier, although there was still the soreness and supply issue for the first week or so. Keep your chin up - it will work out. I hope this helps

Congratulations on your new baby! Sometimes kids get nipple confusion. I guess it is different when they nurse and when they eat from a bottle. The sucking motion is different and they say it is easier for them to get the milk from a bottle than from a breast. Don't give up! It is really great you are so committed since this is very beneficial for your baby. It is not too late for you to breastfeed. Try calling your pediatritian's office - often they have a lactation consultant on staff and she can watch you nurse and give you some tips. Good luck!

Hi S.,

You absolutely can breastfeed, but it sounds like you and your baby need a little help. Call your local La Leche League Leader immediately and she will help you free of charge (llli.org). It also sounds like you indeed need a pump, because if you're reeling pain or discomfort in your breasts, you are probably getting engorged and that could lead to clogged milk ducts or worse, mastitis. Nursing and/or pumping help prevent and even heal this. If your breast gets hot and very painful, that could be mastitis and you'll need a prescription to help that, but you can still breastfeed through all of this.

I had a lazy nurser son, but we worked through it and he's still nursing at 22 months.

Good luck and feel free to email me offline if you have any questions. It is challenging in the early days and weeks, but it is wonderful once you both get the hang of it!

M.

Hi S.! Congratulations on you new baby girl! Relax!!! The one thing I would suggest is not to use the bottle or pacifier yet. Give her time to learn to suck from your nipple before introducing another kind. She might be confused!!! Good luck . . .

It is not too late yet. You are making milk still. Get a pump to increase your milk supply. If all else fails you can still give breast milk in a bottle. Start pumping so your milk will come faster to your little one. Get a suringe or something similiar and while your baby is trying to latch drip breast millk down your breast so it hits their mouth. This will encourage them to latch and suck. It is hard in the beginning but keep trying and if you need help call a lactation consultant or even try the hospital you gave birth. Keep at it and good luck!

It always takes a couple of days, so don't worry. It's definitely not too late. Make sure her tongue is curled and then push her entire mouth around your nipple so that there is suction. Do this as often as you can until she gets it. Then you ccan feed her every 3 hours. You should definitely get a pump, so at least you can collect the milk in the freezer for later use. Believe me you'll be happy you did.

One tip, for the near future. A lot of women get sore nipples, for me just holding the baby in different positions everytime I feed him really worked wonders! The football hold, laying down etc.

Good luck, try not to stress. We all go through it.

Also, there's usually a La Leche club or some kind of breast feeding support group in your area. Most of the time at the hospital. Check it out.

I have not read the other reesponses so I might being saying what is already said so forgive me. First of all congratulations on your new baby!

Breast pumps are great. Definitely get one. Also you do not need to give up. It is not too late. If your breasts are really full that means your milk has come in. They could be too full which may make it hard for baby to get a proper latch. So either manually express some milk or pump a little before you try to get baby to feed.

It is not uncommon for newborn's to not suck once on your breast. it is comfort for them and soothes them to sleep. That is ok. She will eat when she is hungry. As soon as you see her root (open her mouth & turn her head) bring her right to your nipple immediately. Use you pinky to adjust her mouth so that she has most of your aereola in her mouth. Remember to put her belly against yours for proper positioning. I alway tucked one of my babies arms under my underarm to help with that.

Our pediatrician advised me to not introduce the bottle (be it with breast milk or formula) until 3 weeks. Before that she will get used to not having to work hard and may get lazy (bottles are easier to suck from) and after 3 weeks baby may not accept the bottle. 3 weeks worked well with my first two. They took the bottle no problem. My third however didn't want it. Point is they are all different and you will find what works your you.

I am sure someone here has mentioned a lactation consultant. I never had one because I never had problems, but that may be helpful. However I have heard they can be pushy breast-nazi's and may frown upon your choice to supplement with formula. Be prepared & stick to your guns.

Get some lansinoh when you get your pump. It is a miracle for sore, cracked nipples. It sometimes stains so use breast pads as well.

Good luck to you! I wish you and your precious baby girl all the best.

A.

It's not to late but you should do something quickly! If this is something you really want to do and want to make work, I would highly suggest calling a private Lactation consultant they come to you. Many insurance companies cover it. I used Susan E. Burger. ###-###-#### She was wonderful!!!!!! I had all but given up. My baby was latching on the way the hospital consultants had advised me and told me was correct but it was not correct for his mouth and my breast. As a result he had rubbed off the top 4 or 5 layers of skin on my nipples, they were bleeding and every time I nursed my son the pain was so intense tears would run down my face. After looking in my babies mouth and examining my breasts she was able to recommend how to get him to latch on and how to hold him (a way not shown in the countless books I had purchased and consulted) to enable him to feed more efficiently and more comfortably for me. She also weighed him before feeding and after to confirm he was getting milk. Further more she checked to make sure there were no issues with his tongue that would hinder his ability to feed well. She did all of this with extreme patience and an obvious desire to to help me to learn and feel confident that I could do it without her help. She never made me feel like a bad mommy for not being able to successfully nurse my baby, seemingly the most natural of all things on earth and while she obviously is a big advocate of breast feeding she did not make me feel as if I must breast feed if it was not working for us. With her help my nipples healed within a week or two, we began nursing successfully and now a year later I am trying to figure out how to ween him.
Susan works on the upper west side, her partner works on the upper east side they may cover downtown? If you do not live in those areas I as sure she would be happy to recommend someone in your area who can help you.
Congratulations on your new baby and good luck with the breast feeding.

oo this happened to me, i wanted to breastfeed only but one night they put my baby in the nursery and he wouldn't latch on. For one make sure that she doesn't bottle feed. Then make sure he mouth is wide open and stick your nipple and some areola in her mouth , is you can get her to latch on and make a suction the milk will come down. I hear that milk doesn't start to dry up for about a week

It's not to late but you need help. Find a Lactation Consultant.
Try www.nylca.org. It's worth it. Good luck.

EKC

Do not give up. It could take up to a week for your milk to come in completely. If you want to be successful at breastfeeding you have to have it in your mind that it is very frustrating at first. But then it gets so easy. I PROMISE> I would buy a breastpump. But feed your baby as often as possible as well. That is how your milk supply really develops. It will get better and more comfortable. Annie

Someone once told me it takes forty days to learn how to breastfeed, that's not even mastering it. Find out if a lactation consultant can visit your home to help.

i would keep using the breast pump to keep up your supply. call the hospital for a contact for a lactation consultant. i used one when i kept getting blisters and within 5 minutes she had solved my problem. i was there for 2 hours total. it cost me ~$165, but trust me, i'd have paid twice as much for all the help she gave.

You should look into a lactation consultant - they can really help - come to your house, see how you're doing and offer help as well as keep you calm. In the meantime definitely get the pump! You'll relieve the pain and keep your milk coming while you figure it out. Plus you'll have some stored up when you go back to work....

Ask your OB if they have numbers for some consultants. OR check out the "Upper Breast Side" store. Its on 72nd just off broadway and they always know about seminars, consultants etc.. Its an all breast feeding store if you can believe it. Don't give up yet - it will get easier.

I don't think that it's too late. You can use the breast pump to keep up your milk supply. I would try to nurse and then pump. Your baby may also be a little sleepy. Try to nurse when she is fully awake. If she seems to nod off, you can try to undress her a little. You could also talk to a lactation consultant or, if you county offers a visiting nurse, you could get a visit from her. That may be all of the assistance that you need. I had similar issues and it worked for me. Keep up the good work.

My baby boy was born in Nov and I've had a lot of trouble with breastfeeding, but am still doing it. We'e pretty much got the hang of it now, but we're still clumsy and I'm still sore. It seems like you're getting lots of good advice from other moms, but I wanted to pass along the following.
First, the Medela Classic breast pump is great and you may be able to rent one from a pharmacy for about $7 a day.
Second, at first, my boy would not latch on to the left breast for some reason. No matter what I did, he refused to take it. Finally, I sat him upright on my left thigh facing me and pushed him forward and he finally latched on that way. My guess is he just wasn't comfortable lying sideways. Maybe that position will work for you?
And finally, after 3 weeks or so, I experienced a lot of pain, especially in the left breast. I don't want to scare you, but it was intense. My point is, it got better. ALthough I'm still sore now, it's nothing like it was and I feel like I'm still making progress. So, be sure to use the lasinoh (lanolin) and breast pads and if the pain hits, try icing your breasts (or using a really cold wash cloth)or cold cabbage leaves (weird, but it works).
You will be fine -- just keep trying and be sure to reach out for help when you have to....good luck!

Hi S.-
I hope things are going well with your new little one. May I suggest holding your newborn like a football under your arm? I know if sounds a little silly, but my son had this problem as well and that's what I did and, it worked! You hold their legs against your side and put a little pillow under their head for support (and assist you while holding them this way). Also, if you try sticking the tip of your pinky finger into your baby's mouth, just a little bit, the baby should suck automatically. This little trick really helped me when I had a hungry baby and was in public where it was not convenient to nurse. It will pacify them temporarily AND teach them to suck. Your baby may latch onto you better with these suggestions! Let me know!

Call your OB or the local hospital and ask for a referral to a lacatation consultant. Failing that, google "lacatation consultants new jersey" and an entire directory will come up.

Don't give up on breastfeeding! It's one of the most wonderful things you can do for yourself and your child, both emotionally and physically. Too many moms throw in the towel too early because they don't seek support.

Good luck.

Congratulations on your beautiful baby and well done for considering breastfeeding. I think you need help from a professional nursing nurse - were you not given their contact details in the hospital? If I were you I would call her or your maternity unit today because you need someone there with you to help you. Or contact La Leche. But do it today! Do not lose out on this marvellous opportunity! From C., professional breastfeeder (did it three times!)

It's not too late! OUr two month old didn't eat much her first week either, and now is breastfeeding exclusively. Ours was a sleeper, and we had to wake her up to nurse and then keep her awake on the breast with tickling and even cold wet cloths on her head. She hated it but she would wake up and nurse a bit each time. Stick with it, and good luck!

S., why don't you get the help of a lactation consultant. I'm sure that there are many who can help you - if you don't know of one already, try your ob/gyn or pediatrician's office. They often can refer you to one in private practice. I have used a lactation consultant several times for various issues since my baby was born and have found her to be understanding, effective and responsive to my needs. She comes to my home and bills my insurance; all I have to pay is the copay for a regular office visit. She has really helped me. If you want to contact her (she's in Stamford, but I think she travels to surrounding areas) her website is www.lactationservices.com. Good luck.

Get a pump to make sure your supply continues. Formula makes babys feel more full than breast milk so it's possible that she isn't hungry when you are trying to nurse her. Don't give any formula for 4 hours (I read somewhere that formula fills them up for 3-4 hours) then, when she is good and hungry try to nurse.
Your breast's hurt because they are engorged and FULL of milk, pumping will not only make them feel better but it will ensure that your supply is good

Have you tried calling a local lactation consultant in to help. they may be able to help you come up with a position that is comfortable for you and the baby. Also get the pump anyways to relieve the pain in your breast. Atleast by doing that your baby will still receive the nutrition from the breast milk. Also if you are stressing about nursing the baby can sense that so try to relax when its time to feed. Pick a serene spot with no noise and try to make her comfortable. but not to comfortable, make sure she is staying awake also. She may be using your breast as a pacifier to put her back to sleep so keep waking her up take her out of her blanket or sleeper if they are chilly it keeps them awake to feed. Best wishes hope it works.

It is not too late, don't give up. Call the hospital where you delivered and see if they have Pumps that you can rent vs going to buy one. The hospital pumps are stronger and will get your milk supply in or back quicker. Plus this way if it doesn't work you didn't fork over a couple hundred for a pump.

You can also contact LeLeche and they may be able to help you too.

Don't beat yourself up if it doesn't work, you gave it your best try.

S.:

I just did a quick search and found this listing:

Poughkeepsie, NY
Patricia Morel Murphy, MSN, IBCLC
Lactation Coordinator
Vassar Brothers Hospital
###-###-####

Breastfeeding has tremendous benefits for both mother and child but is not always a simple process. In any case, success is largely based on getting the right support and I would not hesitate to contact a lactation consultant for some hands on help. Don't wait though - I would hate to see you hurting because the baby is not emptying your breasts properly and yes, pumping right now is important to keep that milk supply up. Nipple shields may work in the interim too.

Don't stress out about this - the baby knows!! Good luck!

I would continue to try breastfeeding and after that pump. You want to pump to stimulate the milk supply - it is a supply & demand situation. I breastfed my first two and now I am doing so with my third (and last). I delivered on 1/31/08. It does take a few days for your milk to come in fully, so do not get discouraged. Try nursing when the baby is alert and not tired, you can also try unwrapping him/her. Good luck!!!!

try looking up La Leche league on computer. Also try making sucking noises with your mouth. That helped me. Most of all relax! Milk will come if you can stick it out. At first the sucking will make your breast nipples sore but if you rub them with cocoa butter the pain will go away and it will feel very satisfying.

Don't worry... it's not too late. There are lactation specialists that can come to your house and help you. Not sure how much it costs, but i've had a lot of friends do this. They will come to you a few times and help you w/ the process. You can contact your hospital/dr and ask for some recommendations for someone in your area.

It is not too late!! I would go buy a very good breastpump, I say someone mentioned the Medela. I have the original medela and couldn't live with out it. I am not sure where you are located at, but there is a great wellness center here in NY that does private consulations for new partents and helped me out tremendously. I have the phone number if your interested. Its called "the Care Connection" and they are located in Amherst, NY on Harlem road. They also accept insurance, so nothing is out of pocket. They have an amazing lac. consult there. breastfeeding is hard work, but so worth it in the end. My baby will be 7 months old next week, and I have stuck with it. YOu can too! Good Luck, K.

Buying a breast pump is a great way to go, pump the milk and then when you go back to work she will still be able to get the breast milk,

As far as latching on, squeeze the nipple and make the milk come out, so she can taste and smell it,

then tease her bottom lip with it, and when she opens her mouth wide put the breast inside her mouth

DO NOT give her any bottles until she nurses, this will releive the pressure and LET your milk down, making it easier for her to get the milk

Just keep trying,

Remember she is only a few days old, and VERY tired,

She will eat when she is hungry,

M
Mother of 3

hello S.,
First, Keep trying. I went through a similar scenario with my first son. I went to a lactation consultant after my newborn started losing weight because it would take me up to 1-2 hrs to get him to nurse about 10 min in each breast,then I had to start the process all over again. The lactation consultant really helped me in telling me what to look for on how they baby suck, to watch for special cues on proper latching- his throat, that his body is limb and most important you have to have good posture and especially be very relax to have the letdown. I had to supplement with formula for the first few weeks to make sure he was gaining weight. I would first breast fed then my husband/family would continue with few onces of formula. Breast milk is so important since you are transferring key antibodies and chemicals are designed to keep your baby healthy and well nourished.

Stick with it!!! It will get better. You have milk, that is great! Definitely get a pump so that the baby will benefit from receiving breastmilk...you need to get one anyway, if you are going back to work. I would continue trying. If the kid is hungry enough and can suck a pacifier or bottle, then it is not the sucking. It took my daughter (now 3) almost a week before we were really getting it. Good Luck

Don't give up. I have 4 kids. I gave up with my first three but the nurses at the hospital where i had my last boy now 4yrs old. Told me not to give up and don't give the baby anything but your breast and they'll call the milk down. I did alot of reading. Put the baby on your breast before she gets hungry so she's not fussy and crying because that will only make you nervous. Every two hours at the begining she'll get the hang of it. It's better for the both of you. You get to connect in a way that i never imagined.

Hi, it sounds like the baby has something called nipple confusion. If you breastfed successfully with your 1st baby then you know what to do, breast feed on demand exclusively and your supply will increase. You can always use bottles later when you go back to work; try to establish exclusive breast feeding now. Get a pump and pump until you've emptied your breast, they'll fill up again within two hours. Drinking from the bottle is easier for a baby, the milk just pours in from the little holes with very little effort on the baby's part. To suck from mom, there is a special way the nipple and areola get sucked in and a real coordination on baby's part, which of course is instinctive. If they get too used to the bottle they kind of lose their coordination to suck from mom correctly, but they never lose the ability to do it. You could manually express or pump until you have let down, that is the milk starts to drip so baby won't give up in the first minute because milk is not coming. You'll know if it's working because you'll have 8-10 wet diapers a day. They generally have several mustard color soft stools a day as well.A newborn who breast feeds on demand might be on every two hours for about 25-40 minutes. I would reestablish exclusive breast feeding but also be in touch with your pediatrician and where you delivered might have a breast feeding coordinator who can advise you as well.

hang in there, pump if you get too unconfortable but don't give up yet..she just needs a little time to figure it out. drink lots of water and eat clean food. she'll get there!

S.: Don't give up!! The beginning is always the hardest. First, can you contact a lactation consultant or head nurse from your delivery room/hospital (they usually have these on hand)? They can either talk you through it over the phone or visit you at home...also try talking with your pediatrician. Don't forget La Leche League, who will also come to your home to help. I'm not sure why the little one will not suck, just keep offering her your breast. DEFINITELY pump your milk (or hand express) to relieve the pressure. You can simply save your breastmilk in the freezer. There are also little hand feeders you can attach to your boob to get the baby sucking. Hang int here and good luck!

If you want to breastfeed - go and get a pump ASAP!!! Ideally if you can afford double electric Medela, and Medela in any case! Remember that your breasts produce as much milk as is taken out! It's a demand - supply law.
If your breasts are engorged your daughter might have a problem latching on and sucking. Try a warm shower, or better put a little water on her disposable diaper, warm it up (15 sec should do) in the microwave and make a compress on your breast right before breastfeeding. It will soften it up. Once you have a pump start with pumping and only then give her a breast.
Second, very important, - make sure she is hungry when you offer her breast. If she got formula (which keeps them satisfied longer than breast milk) she might be simply not hungry.
In the worst case pump and give her your milk from the bottle, but before you do that, keep trying, keep trying.
You might also want to get in touch with your local La Leche League consultant (they are not called consultants but I don't remember what). They can be really helpful.
Don't give up!!! Good luck!

Try to find a lactation resource center (there is a great one in Chatham, NJ called the Postpartum Place). You could even just call them for advice. Your hospital where you delivered may also be able to offer help. Good luck!

Has your baby been feeding from a bottle? Sometimes they get used to the bottle then won't breatfeed because the bottle nipple is easier. If you are not going back to work too soon, keep trying to breastfeed. I nursed all three of my kids, and I am so glad I did. The hardest part is the first few weeks. If you can't get the breastfeeding established then you could pump and give it to the baby. Any breast milk you can give is better than none. I would say if you absolutely can't get him/her to nurse, at least pumping it would still give them breast milk. Its so good for the baby. So keep trying. Good luck!

Hi S.,
Hang in there, dear. I am a 41 year old married mother of 3 including twins. A 14 year daughter, breastfed for 13 months and 12 year old twins, boy and girl breastfed for 10 months. Its supply and demand. Drink lots and lots of water/fluids. You must pump and massage your breasts to increase the production. I absolutley loved breasfeeding and so did my babies. They are also very very healthy kids. You can email me if you would like to just let me know and I will post my email.... if you need any more advice. Just dont give up yet. Oh, by the way my twins were born on Feb. 1, 1996. Congrats and good luck!
D.

My daughter was premature and I had as similar problem. I consulted a lactation consultant who seemed to help. She recommened that I remove all of my baby's clothes and flick her feet to keep her awake. I would also express on the other side then feed it to her with a syringe. I would stick my pinky in her mouth up-side-down, and then put it into the side of her mouth. It was exhausting, but being consistent about it and making sure she was alert seemed to be the best thing. Also, the doctor had me sit her on my thigh and feed her sitting up, this seemed to get her to feed longer.

I felt like sometimes she wasn't getting much, but she did continue to grow and she is still nursing at 15 months. Keep up the good work and my thoughts are with you!

Well lets see first off you should have let her nurse for the first week or two cause this is the best time to get her to nurse because of the colistrum. she also may not want to nurse so if you are giving her bottles then masybe she will just have to be formula feed. But if you want to give her your breast milk then go get a pump and just pump. You can freeze it. If you want you can email me at ____@____.com and we can talk more about i have nursed all my kids and my oldest is 9 yrs old. Thanks alot hope to hear from you.
C.

Hi, I have a 18 month old and breastfed her until she was 12 months as did my sister-in-laws and several friends. I don't think it is too late to breastfeed, but I would make sure you drink tons of water that will aid in milk production as fill pumping. To ease tenderness in the breasts use Lansioh. There is another product on the market too, but I can't recall it's name on your breasts to ease tenderness. Also, try feeding the baby a little from the bottle then once she latches switch.

A.
White Plains, NY

congrats on baby #2. Of course you can breastfeed. I would reccomend getting a pump and strating right away. You should also continue to try and breastfeed everytime before you give her a bottle. I am sure she will latch on soon enough and things will go smooth. good luck. Keep us posted.

S. not too late you are doing fine b/c you are producing milk, do get a breast pump so that you can relieve the pressure of your breast, continue producing and so that they don't hurt as much. If worst comes to worst give the breast milk in a bottle.

You have to keep trying one of the things I did and worked for me is don't wait until the baby is too hungry to feed b/c the baby will get frustrated. If necessary wake the baby up before he/she starts crying for food approx 1/2 hr before and start trying for him/her to latch then, baby will be hungry but calmed and see if that works. Also try to press on your nipple and bend it up so that it touches the roof of the baby's mouth as it goes in that stimulates sucking you can try this with your finger too. Again this is what I did and it worked for me, hopefully it will work for you too.

Best of luck!

I had similiar problem with my daughter but I used the breast shield that they gave me in the hospital and it worked great. I only breastfed for 8 weeks because I had to return to work but it worked for me the whole time. I recommend you get a breast pump anyway to give yourself some breaks and get the baby used to a bottle. If you have a pediatrician, call them up they usually have a lactation consultant on staff that can help you get the proper latch on for baby. Hope this helps. Hang in there and if you aren't successful at breasfeeding, don't beat yourself up. It's not for everyone.

hello S.
my advise is to get in touch why laleche league (association specialised in breastfeeding).They have local support or you can talk to them by phone: they'll answer all your questions and help you not to stop breastfeeding : www.llli.org
keep trying and good luck!

I was in the same boat you were just a little while ago and really the only thing that helped was to pump, take a hot shower to relieve the pain and then pump, pump and more pumping , that will drive the mil if your baby isn;t sucking hard enough to bring in the milk. You must pump, if your breasts are too engourged you might want to enlist the help of your partner to help with the flow, I kow it sounds harsh, but to help with the flow you must do this. And get lost fo rest, drink plenty of fluids and have the baby lay next to your breasts when not feeding as well, to get baby used to them.
I hope this helps - I know how hard this is!

If she hasn't taken from your breast in two days, then I assume you are bottle feeding her. Unfortunatel, some babies need to be only breast fed until they adapt while others can go back and forth. When my second daughter was born, I breast fed her but wanted my husband to bottle feed her since he enjoyed it so much. I would pump milk for him to do so and was told by a lactation consultant that this can confuse a newborn. It may not be too late but you have to persevere with the breast feeding. Breast feed first thing in the morning and during nightly feedings. I suggest you contact a lactation consultant via the hospital or find one online. You want to make sure she is latching on correctly and that she is not losing weight. Also, wash your nipples with a mild soap, preferably a soap free cleanser and rinse thoroughly. It could be there's a taste on your nipple she doesn't care for. I don't know if this is possible, but maybe the flavor of something you are ingesting is passing through your breast milk and she doesn't like it. Definitely consult with a lactation specialist. Many hospitals provide this free of charge to mothers of newborns otherwise, you'll have a one time fee per visit. Good luck! If you'd like to try a natural non toxic soap free cleanser, visit my website: www.shaklee.net/celebrateyourhealth

Congratulations on trying to breastfeed. It's hard, but totally worth it if you and the baby can get it figured out. My best advice would be for you to find a lactation consultant. This person could come over and help you get the baby latched on. You can find these people at the hospital where you delivered.

It's definitely not too late to breastfeed your baby. Good luck!

Hi- I have an 8-month old boy, I also did breastfeeding and forumula combination up to 7 months.

I don't think it's too late. Until you get a pump, keep expressing the milk yourself for more than 3 minutes or longer to trick your body into making milk. You can do this in the shower or over a sink. Call your doctor and ask for a lactation consultant referral. Call the lactation consultant and have her visit you at home right away to help you with getting your baby to suck.

Good luck.

T.

Have you called your local La Leche League volunteer? They help you at no cost and they are very experienced. You can probably find a LLL leader in the phone book or online.
Good luck!

Get help from a certified lactation consultant now. Call your hospital where you delivered and ask for a referal. I breastfed both of my children successfully, but only because I got the help I needed.
Good Luck!!

S.-

I had trouble nursing my daughter. The nurses/consultants thought that she was too little and didn't have enough energy to latch on. When I came home I started using a nipple shield (fits over your nipple and may be a little easier for a baby to latch onto). Once we got the hang of that everytime I nursed her I would start with my breast and if that didn't work move to the shield, but I always incorporated my breast. After about a month or two (I think) she didn't need the shield anymore, and I ended up nursing her for over 1 year. There's some controversy to using the shield (low milk supply), but it worked well for us, and I had no problems with the milk supply. Hope this helps.

Hello,
Congratulations on your new little one. I don't think it is to late. Getting the breast pump is a good idea. When I had my 3rd baby the lactation specialist from the hospital told me to pump for 5 minutes at a time to relieve the pressure she said this way the baby would be able to nurse but i also wouldnt be making my body think the baby was eating every time i pumped. In the first few days i had to pump if the baby had been sleeping for a long time and was due to eat. Contact either the lactation specialist from the hospital or your local la lache league they can help you get the advice you need. Just keep trying. Your baby may be getting nipple confusion if she is going back and forth between the breast and bottle. I know there are different ways you can supplement without using the bottle in the early days. If you can not find someone in your area you can email me at ____@____.com and I can help you get in contact with a LA lache league leader. Your breast are probally hurting due to the engorgement period and that will get better you can use warm compresses and or cool packs to help them. Engorgement lasted 3 to 3 days for me. I wish you all the best in nursing your little one.
Sherri

No - it is not too late! I would suggest you get a breast pump and find a good lactation physician. Ask your obgyn - they can refer you. The lactation physician can help you teach your baby the basics - they are invaluable. I know the one near us is called Breastfeeding Resources and they will take you within a few hours of your call. Good luck!

Don't give up! You are doing fine. Sometimes they aren't that hungry at first. Pumping might help- but I would try to stay away from formula until you go back to work. Formula can be a slippery slope. Think of it like a big mac- they love it- but you don't want them to get used to it before they've learned to like homemade brocolli and chicken. A lactation consultant is really worth the money. Pumping will keep your milk supply going. Just keep offering your baby the breast- sometimes it takes a while- but it is so worth it. ESPECIALLY after you go back to work and you'll want to have maximum bonding in minimum time. Drink water- don't stress- good luck-
Amanda- mother of three-

Hi,

Congratulations on your new baby! The first few days of breastfeeding can be a little frustrating, but hang in there because the benefits are amazing. You should contact the La Leche League for breastfeeding support, they will have someone in your area that can give you expert advice. I hope this helps and good luck!

S.

S.,

Have you been bottlefeeding? If so, she may have decided she doesn't want to nurse because of nipple confusion. Bottles aren't supposed to be introduced until around 6 weeks.

My oldest had trouble with feeding and the first two weeks were very hard. We had to supplement but you do it by letting her suck on your finger while squirting the milk into her mouth a little at a time.

My youngest, now just about 6 months old, had a very hard time latching on as well. It just takes persistence and knowing that it will get easier for both of you.

I highly suggest contacting a lactation consultant at your hospital. It shouldn't cost anything.

Hugs,
L.

i felt rejected when my baby didn't want my breast anymore she just wanted the formula more i suppose it filled her tummy more than breast milk did. i say listen to your baby do what she wants because she is the most important here not what you read or doctors advise if she wants formula give it to her. if she doesn't take either than go see the doc. good luck

PLEASE call your hospital's lactation consultants AND La Leche League - do not give up!!!
MANY babies struggle in the beginning as it's a skill they need to learn.

I too, had the same problems - and what worked is a nipple shield. Target, Babies R Us have them...helps the baby to latch on...then you can try to wean baby off when the baby is older/stronger...

Rent a hospital pump - or buy an electric one (I disliked manual, but other moms like them). Your baby may be hungry and they can get frustrated/cry when they can't get the milk - so hang in there - seek help and support!! You CAN do it!!

I've read the other posts and agree - a pump would be the way to go with expressing the milk to allow for it to come 'down'.. though I have a suggestion for helping with engorged/hurting/painful breasts - take 2 HOT WET towels - as hot as you can stand it - and wrap your breasts in them. This will help the pain and engorgement.

Congrats on your new baby... and keep up the breastfeeding!

Yes, you can breastfeed but now is not the time to introduce bottles. Babies find eat easier to bottlefeed but we all know easier isn't better. I too would urge you to have a consult with a certified lactation consultant.

Don't give up yet. There is usually a lactation specialist at the hospital who you can call for questions. The one at my hospital made house calls. My son was on formula for 2 days after my c-section but i was pumping so I would encourage you to get a breast pump and keep up your milk supply. What worked for me in the beginning was to put a little formula on the breast to get my son to latch on. It took a couple days of trying and lots of tears of frustration but then he latched on no problem and I nursed him for over a year!

I assume since it has been 2 days, that your baby has been taking formula. You could pump to give yourself some relief and give her the milk.
Did your Hospital have a lactation consultant to help you get started? The first few weeks of breast feeding is very hard. You both have to get comfortable with it. Just when your baby is to have a bottle and is hungry, but not starving, relax and snuggle with her in a quiet place and try again. It is not too late. It is a wonderful thing if you can breastfeed, but don't beat yourself up if it does not work out. I must have almost quit a dozen times in the first week and ended up breastfeeding for 9 months, even after I went back to work when my daughter was 3 months old. Gook Luck.

in nyc - call or email Kate Sharp, she will come to you and help you, everything will be fine.
____@____.com
###-###-####

or here is the link to other LCs in other areas.
http://www.nylca.org/
just click on 'find lactation consultants' at the top of the page

Don't give up just yet! I know it's frustrating, and I'm sure you're engorged by now, but you can still be successful with a little relaxation and a pump.

Sometimes the baby can't latch on properly if you are too engorged, so pumping an ounce or 2 off the top may help her get a better latch and have the additional benefit of already being let down when she first latches on. Some babies get frustrated since they have to suck for a little while before the milk will start to flow. This may be compounded if you have already introduced a bottle since it is so much easier to get milk from a bottle. The muscles in their mouths still need to get stronger by nursing and that won't happen if she's being bottle fed regularly (more than once a day). Most lactation consultants would recommend not giving a bottle at all for at least the first 3-4weeks depending on how strong of a nurser they are. This will still give you time to get her used to the bottle before you go back to work, even if you're returning at 6 weeks.

The other option would be to pump exclusively and bottle feed her the milk, but this is double the work for you and takes away the ease of being able to just lift up your shirt when she needs it. I have known women who've done this but they've rarely continued past a few weeks since there is so much work involved (just think about pumping milk through the night!)

This is also only successful if you have a good quality electric double pump to save you some time, but I would also suggest having a standard single manual pump like the Avent one so you can do the quick pump to take those few ounces off the top and get you to let down for the baby right away.

You can also pump off a lot right now since you are engorged and save that for a midnight feeding for your husband to give or freeze it for later use. Your body is determining how much milk to make right now, so it's important to get as many ounces out every 3-4 hours as possible so you will regulate. If you want to start a stockpile for when you you back to work you can even pump in between feedings and your body will produce even more (like you're feeding twins) then you can gradually cut it down to normal but reducing a pump session every day. You also have the most milk in the morning, so take advantage of that and pump the most when you first wake up if the baby isn't taking it from you.

And on top of all of this, know that the first 2 weeks of nursing are the most difficult, but it does get easier! My nipples were cracked and sore for those first 2 weeks, the only thing that kept me from totally falling apart was slathering Lansinoh ointment after EVERY feeding or pump session. It's all natural so it's OK for the baby to latch on with it on as well, no need to wipe off or clean your nipple before nursing.

After successfully nursing my 2 boys (the first until 8 months, the 2nd until 6 months) and then switching to formula, I will say that nothing beats the convenience of having your breasts at ready access to feed a baby, ESPECIALLY through the night. I am very groggy at 3 AM and the thought of having to prepare a bottle and formula vs. snuggling in bed to nurse was enough to push me through the hard times and know that there was a much easier road ahead.

But in the end, only you can know what you and your baby can get through, and don't let yourself feel like a failure if it's just too much for you. Breastfeeding takes a lot of commitment and sacrifice initially and can put a huge strain on you if it doesn't go smoothly. Lots of beautiful, healthy babies are bottle fed too, and they all have mommies that love them more than anything in the world, so no guilt!

Good luck, and I hope that this was helpful.

Still Human
Islip, NY

listen hang in there!! I breast fed for 5 and half months. My daughter is now 6 months old. No need to get an expensive lactation nurse. Just go back to the hospital u had r baby at the classes that have in the booklet. Also, u can just go on the babiesrus.com for the seminars about breastfeeding. Get the Medela dual pump the most expensive one. Get it at the hospital u had r baby. In the stores it is more expensive plus u can try to get the money back from r insurance. Also, Just look at r baby and say open, open wide wider, and the baby will mimic U... I promise u. My biggest problem was that the baby did not open her mouth wide enough and was making my nipples sore. She was suppose to have her mouth wide enough around my aerola. Even if u do not see any milk coming out just take the baby force the baby's mouth on but, tickle the baby on the neck or on the ear or cheek and wait for the mouth to open than force the baby's mouth ASAP. The cradle worked for me. Just get a bobby and lay the baby across and think of u drinking a water bottle laying sideways.. U would have to have r body aligned sideways to drink that bottle RIGHT?? so that is the piece of advice I got from the lacation nurse at Babies r us in Westbury, NY and at LIJ hospital. Also, The more u pump the more milk u have. the more u use them the more u get out of it. Also, Drink LOTS OF WATER and MILK.. This is what I did and I had a lot of milk. Also, I would grab a killian's and relax. Also, get a cream called Lansolin this is what helped me with the pain in my nipples. But, to tell u the truth the more u pumped into a bottle the better it was for r nipples. Keep trying don't give up. My husband pushed me and believed in me. I was in pain and he said relax try the pump later. That pump was a god sent.

Hi S., I had some trouble bf'ing at first. Don't give too quick!! A breast pump is VERY helpful. If the baby doesnt' latch on, you can always bottle feed him the milk. Also, my baby wouldn't latch on because my nipples were not pointy enough. I used the plastic nipple guards that you can buy at baby's r us. They are in the shape of a nipple and you place them on top of yours. It's so much eaiser for the baby to latch on to those. There's also a benefit to you, with the plastic nipple guard, your nipples will not get sore or peel from bf'ing!!! For extra advice, you should contact your hospital again, or call your local representative from the La Leche League. The league is made up of mothers who are dedicated to helping people like you!!! You can find a contact for the league on line.

L M

Do not give up!!! Get a pump and start pumping. Pinch just behind your nipple and put it into your baby's mouth. If she still won't latch on, feed her your pumped milk until she gets the hang of it. It took my daughter a month before she latched on right. It may be very discouraging, but you can do it.

Well first of all congrats to the new bundle of joy. Breastfeeding is a very smart idea! I reccommend it to everyone. I am a mother of three, two boys,6 and 4 and my daughter will be 21 months on the the 17th (and i still nurse her and i work full time)what you have to make sure of is that your baby is latching on right! It will not be painful if her entire mouth covers your nipple. A trick i used to do with my oldest son is touch his bottom of his chin and gently open his mouth while inserting your nipple inside and keep her mouth open with your finger until she starts to suck. It will feel funny at first but if it does not hurt you then you are doing it right! Invest in an electic pump!they work wonders! And for the pain when you daughter is not nursing, take a warm shower and just let the water beat over your breasts while expressing milk out with your hands. Good luck and keep trying!

Dear S., my recommendation to you is Don't Give Up! My daughter is now seven and I also had challenges the first few days of nursing. I found that she was most comfortable when we lay in bed, me on my side and her nestled close to me. also cradling her and gently reinsurting the nipple. For the pain there are many great natural creams, I can't remember the names now, but I am sure if you google you will find some great sources. Calendula worked well.

Good luck and be loving and patient. your little one will latch on soon.

G.

Hi S.,
I agree with practically all that has been said. I'd just suggest using warm, rather than cold compresses on your breasts when they're full and sore-- my understanding is that cold compresses are for when you want to avoid stimulating milk production. My son is 7 months old. It took us 5 WEEKS to get the hang of breastfeeding. He wouldn't latch on AT ALL initially and the hospital had us give him formula because he was low birthweight. It then took 5 days for my milk to come in, which gave him even less of an incentive to latch. My electric breast pump was a lifesaver during this time as at least I was able to supplement his formula with a little breast milk (and get the hang of pumping, which I needed to do when I returned to work anyway). By 2 weeks, I could pump enough to feed him bottled breastmilk exclusively. At this point, I probably should have gotten a latctation consultant to help us with latching on, but I was stubborn and nursed in pain til we finally got the hang of things over the next 3 weeks. He never got "nipple confusion" and he used a pacifier the whole time. For us, our breastfeeding woes were probably an issue with him being small; once he hit 7-8 pounds, things got easier. It was a lot to deal with when I was already overly tired, hormonal and sore! I wanted to quit every day but now, on the other side of things, I'm glad we kept trying.

Sorry--I meant to keep this short! You're getting a lot of advice. Remember that at the end of the day, the best advice is what feels best and works best for you and your family. Good luck and congratulations on the birth of your daughter!

You should most definitely contact a lactation specialist (your hospital can give you a number). Its not too late at all. Just get help right away. Its still a little early to begin supplementing with formula when the baby hasn't gotten the hang of breastfeeding. She has to master that first! Also, go on Kellymom.com and there is lots of good advice/info on breastfeeding. Good luck!

Hi - I writing you from Bergen, Norway and I hope yiu will understan my English ...........

IT IS NOT TO LATE FOR YOU TO BREASTFEED

I would like to help you with your breastfeeding problem, because I believe that is the best way to feed, protect and communicate with your child.

My name is A., I am 50 years old and I have breastfed my 4 children more than 8 years...............all together hehe. The last one till he was 3,5 years old ;)

Well enough about me. I am happy to hear that you want to breast feed. I see that you also want to use formula because you are going back to work.

The way that babies suck on the nipple and on the bottle is different and the "reward" too is different because with the formula the "milk" comes immideately and it is filling because you measure up how much they need and you will give the same within a certain amount of hours.

When breastfeeding the babay eats till they feel full and will give you a hint when it is hungry again.
They decide when they want some more. It could be within 1 hour og 3 hours depending on the hour of the day.

Usually we have more milk in the morning than at night, but to keep the milk coming it is important to brastfeed on a regular base.

I see that you hurt and it could help you to have a pump , but in Norway we can buy a "nippleshieled". It is plastic and you put in the nipple and tha baby suck on it.

It protects your niple till it feels better, but it could also be more difficult for the babay because it can take longer before the milk comes.

To help your soareness it could be of help if you take out some milk and put it around your nipple, Let it dry before you put clothes on, or buy a special nipple cream that is very greasy.

The baby gets confused by being offered both breast and bottle in the beginning. It is possible for you to only brestfeed now untill you baby "gets it" and then start with thee bottle??

The nipples will hurt in the beginning, but when the it get used to the sucking it will pass, but then you will have to breastfeed more often...........

Maybe this sounds complicated, but when you get the hang of it it is the best and easiest way to feed your baby.

Breastmilk has the best formula - right temperature and it protects your child from infectinons and deseses..........
If you pump yourself now - give that milk to your baby so it gets used to it. It is not so filling as the formula and the baby will need more shortly, but by doing som you stimulate the milk production. ;)

If your baby won't take your nipple it could also be that it could be easier for her/him with the bottle, but if the baby is hungry enough it will find it's way to be satisfied.... and suck on the nipple.

Beliesve in yourself - YOU CAN DO IT and SO CAN YOU BABY ;)

If your baby is full from formula he/she does not have to make an effort to try your delicious "homemade formula"...........

I know it can be tough in the beginning but the reward is powerfull. ;)

My oldest daughter is 23 . She has 2 childen too.24 months and 2 months old. She brestfed the oldest one till he was 18 months and thought that would help her when she started again - but NO. She still had her problems like you are having now even if it was only 4 months after she stopped with her first one till she started again with the second one...........

I hope this was of some help and wish you all the best and hope you will make it. ;)

If you have more questions you can contact me again
____@____.com

First off, are you doing both? A baby will go the easier route and take a bottle over breast any day. I breastfed all 3 of my kids.Stop the bottle for now and she will get hungry and will latch on! Once she does she won't let go. If you're only trying for awhile the giving her the bottle, she will NOT take the breast! Don't give in and keep the breast in front of her till she's hungry enough to try. Don't get discouraged, listen to those against it, go to the bottle because you think she's not getting enough.You will produce all the milk your baby needs. Once she's in a pattern and your milk is in you can start substituting one bottle a day for the breast. Don't go to too many bottles or your milk will go away. Remember that your breast has a built in memory and once you don't need it it will stop producing. Good luck!!!

Hi- My daughter had trouble latching on, too. I used a nipple guard that worked wonders for me. It is a rubber "nipple" that goes over your nipple and provides the baby with more to "latch onto". Ask your pediatrician or lactation consultant about this. I was ready to give up on breastfeeding before I got this...

If you haven't already, get a hold of someone at your local La Leche league. I wish I had with my daughter, who is now 2 1/2 and I could not breastfeed her either. Turns out she has a frenulum issue with her upper lip that prevented her from a proper latch.

Good luck, check out their website for your local phone numbers.

G.

It is not too late at all. You will want to make sure she really is latched on and can suck. If you are not completely sure you may want to contact a lactation consultant. They are really helpful and can get you and your baby on a comfortable nursing routine almost immediately. If she is able to suck a bottle she is able to suck you! :)
I would recommend that right before you bring her to you to nurse you make sure you are as relaxed as possible. Believe it or not she can sense the stress you may be feeling from all of this. If she thinks you are uptight about it, she will turn away or become stressed herself. Nursing is such a wonderful thing and a great way to bond with baby and get that one of one time that is so hard especially since you already have a 2 year old demanding your attention. If you can stick it out and work on it, it will get better! I promise you! I nursed my twins for 14 months and then my third child for 14 months too. All 3 kids decided when they were ready to stop!

Good luck.

I am 34 year old married woman. Mom of 3 children. Boy/girl almost 7 year old twins and a 3 1/2 year old boy. I have my own business teaching woman how to take better care of themselves with nurturing rituals and pampering spa products. I live life each day knowing I decide when I want to work and when I want to be with my kids.

Hi S.,
Congrats on your baby. It's an amazing time. I had my first child 12/30/07. She's beautiful and although motherhood is challenging, it's an incredible gift.
I am breast feeding and had some trouble too. It's not so easy. I went to a Lactation Consultant and she gave me a breast shield. It helped Olivia to latch to my breast and understand what she had to do. Once your child has it down, you can wean her off the shield. I would have given up without this breast shield. It wasn't working otherwise. You can get a breast shield in CVS or Target, really anywhere. Give it a shot. It changed everything for me.
Don't give up!

I had a lot of trouble with my first child and ended up giving it up. Then with my second I hired a lactation consultant and she made all the difference. I highly recommend that you find one. They aren't that expensive and your hospital or dr may even have a recommendation. My lactation consultant not only helped me by providing all the tips and advice I needed to get it right, but she helped me to know that I COULD do it. That it isn't always easy and that if I just keep trying I can do it. I thank my lucky stars all the time that I got to have that experience. If it hadn't worked and I gave up I would feel like I missed out on something important. Not to mention that my daughter (second child) was SO much healthier than my son (first child). I attribute that to breast milk. I am very proud to have nursed her and not given up (although I wanted two at least once a day for two months). My lactation consultant was Rebbecca Rosen and I think her website is www.breastchester.com. Maybe she would give you some over the phone advice.
Good luck! You can do it!

S., if I were you, I would call immediately to have a lactation consultant come to your home. You can locate one through your doctor, the hospital or the La Leche League Chapter in your town. I assume you have been giving her the bottle instead? Perhaps she just got too used to that and is now confused with the breast. Don't give up; you should be able to get her back on the breast -- but you may need professional help. Good Luck! L.

Hi

No it's not too late to breastfeeed. Go get the pump and if you're having a hard time with baby breastfeed at least you are able to give her your milk in a bottle. In my job there's 3 women brest feeding and they pump in the morning and pump at work. When you get home maybe you want to try again and being baby been sucking she might start sucking your nipple. I wish you luck and be happy.

Y.

It's not too late! But, you probably need some professional help. Nursing doesn't come naturally for most of us. Here's a few ideas... go to the la leche website to find a group near you. Also, visit www.kellymom.com they'll have a list of lactation consultants in your area. If you live in NYC a great resource is www.realbirth.com, there you'll find BF support groups, etc. Call some one asap who can work with you. It's hard in the first few weeks but well worth the effort! Most of all try to relax. Good luck!

I think you are falling into the same problems that most first time breastfeeders fall into... It is very hard, it doesnt come natural, and the baby has to learn the same as you do... But you should not give up or introduce a bottle until the baby has mastered breastfeeding, otherwise the baby will get nipple confusion. If that happens the baby may be even more difficult to teach to nurse. And no pacifiers either.. Your breasts are sore because of engorgment, If you do not get the milk out your breasts will stop producing milk, law of supply and demand, if the baby isnt demanding it you will not supply it.. It is hard and it is alot of work, and you will never feel as frustrated in your entire life. I cryed like a maniac for fear the baby wasnt getting enough, or because he wouldnt latch.. Then after a few weeks I realized that it was getting easier, and he was nursing, and I began to think hey I can do this.. Get some support from family and friends, contact a lactation consultant to help you with your latch issues( this is the most important thing) and hang in there you are in for a rough but very rewarding ride. I will keep you in my prayers and congratulations!!!

BTW-- Get the breast pump, and it should be and electric double pump... Medela or other reputable brand, or rent one from the hospital (some pharmacies offer them) it is essential you deplete the milk from your breasts.. Here is a link that offers some wonderful tips
http://www.lllusa.org/

You can definitely still b'feed but I would go get the pump ASAP just in case they don't latch on within the next few days. I had preemie twins who were in the NICU for 3 weeks. I pumped the entire time and then they came home and didn't latch on (bc got use to the bottle) so I continued to pump until last week (10 weeks)! Pumping is good bc it gets the milk out and keeps your supply there but not as efficient as a baby so watch out for clogged ducts...oh, and remember to add 30 minutes to your normal routine! Good luck.

DEFINITELY contact a lactation consultant, they are specialists who deal with bf'ing issues all the time! If you don't know how to contact one, call your local hospital and they should be able to help you. If not, the la leche league.

Also, for online support and encouragement... www.kellymom.com

i hope it all turns out okay!

Call a lactation consultant at the hospital where you delivered. They were my saviors when I was trying to breast feed. They might even come for a home visit (or you can go there) and they will help you get going. Good Luck

Hi!
I have two daughters, 8 and 18 months with #3 on the way. If you really want to help your newborn establish good breastfeeding skills/habits - you really need to postpone the bottles and nipples for about 4 weeks.
Nipple confusion is a real thing. Some babies switch back and forth easily.
What happens is that it takes more mouth/face muscles to nurse than to bottlefeed. So it takes more work. If a baby is bottlefeeding and sees how easy it is to get the formula out - the baby will choose to not work so hard for the breastmilk. (Well, that's one scenario) Or think of it this way - if your muscles get tired when you do X, then skip it and do Y. Make sense?
I also went back to work after I had both my girls so I was concerned about introducing the bottle so that they would be happy with the caregiver. But honestly, waiting until the baby is 4 weeks old and working on the transition then will allow the baby to establish nursing.
And if you are home anyway on maternity leave, save yourself some money and exclusively nurse for 4-6 weeks. OR if you want a family member to help so that you are not "on-call" 24/7... pump and give the baby breast milk in the bottle during weeks 4, 5& 6 so that you can start transitioning.
3 weeks goes by FAST!! I promise.
A couple other things - empty your breast just a little before each feeding to get the flow going and to make the nipple not so big so the baby can latch better.
Drink water and use hot compresses when you are engorged.
Most importantly...Don't worry, nursing is different with each baby. They have their own personalities and preferences and you just have to learn her style. Enjoy it though - it's totally manageable. If you still have trouble, see if you can get a post-partum doula to come by your house, or a la leche league woman to come by and brainstorm in person.
I wish you the best!!
-H. Oh, P.S. Get Dr. William Sears book on breastfeeding. He's awesome.

If you are in Rockland County, call Chonyi Glassman (lactation consultant) and schedule an appt. She'll come to your house and help you. If not, call the La Leche League and see if someone can come over and help you. I think that if your breasts are sore it is not too late. I breastfed my adopted daughter and was able to get milk. I think you can do this. Call someone today and get some help. Breastfeeding is the best!

S., first hang in there and yes get a pump and begin pumping when you are NOT going to try to feed her. Breast milk can be frozen for later use or kept in sterile containers that you must purchase for 5 days in frig. When you do try to feed again, try first thing in the morning, you are full of milk and she is hungry. Make sure that the space you are in is calm and quiet and no TV, music or distracations. Sometimes in the beginning it takes babies time to learn to suckle, bottles let out much more milk at first than your breast. Now that your milk is in..... ( it was not prior in hospital, that was colostrum sp.) .. it will come out much faster and she may not have to suck much. Sucking is a learned activity and takes babies a while to become good at it. Just be calm 15 /30 mins per side , do not one side feed for your sake. Hang in there call you OB or hospital to rent a pump and talk with the lactation specialist if needed. Also breast milk can take on tastes based on your food choices so keep it simple - low on spices etc. Also if you want to try to produce more mile, make sure you are drinking 70-90 oz water or other liquid daily, drink "mothers milk tea" buy at local health store and also try non alchol beer it promotes somehow production. Continue to pump it will build some production .... Good luck