Name: Paige
Ft. Worth, TX
Number of kids: 1
Ages of kids: 4 months
Problem: I'm just curious to know if anyone else had this problem. I spent the first month after my baby was born trying to breastfeed. He nursed every hour and screamed for more. At the recommendation of a lactation consultant, I rented a pump from a local hospital and pumped in between feedings. I did not supplement with formula because I was told that that would decrease my milk supply. My newborn lost half his birth weight during this time. (I can't believe I let it go that long.) I nursed and pumped for over 6 weeks. Does anyone know if there's a way to prevent this with my next pregnancy?
Solution submitted by Donna from Fairbanks, Alaska: I had a similar problem. My son dropped weight after birth and would not gain. I had to breastfeed then supplement for 5 weeks before my son regained his birthweigh. I also had to watch my diet. I was not eating enough calories to produce rich milk. So eat well!!! Also let child nurse as long as he wants. My son nursed for over an hour and every two hours for 5 months. Good luck.
Another solution submitted by Marlene B. from Pretoria, Gauteng, Republic of South Africa: First try breastfeeding and add a supplement. Some people just don't have enough milk. Make a habit of watching your baby's weight (very important) - at least 3 times a week. In actual fact you should weigh your baby before and after a feed to establish baby's milk intake. (Hire a scale for this purpose). Make sure not to add or remove clothes.
Rest a lot and watch your diet. Regards from Africa.
Please submit any more solutions.