6 weeks in - scared my supply is running out

[JW37]

After getting through dreadful early bfing problems (see post about reynauds) I'm now scared I'm not producing enough milk for ds2. I'm still using nipple shields and when he feeds now he thrashes around, pulls off constantly, cries a lot and I have to try him on both sides. Earlier today it was so bad that I ended up giving him some formula as well and he drank 3 oz despite bfing for 45 mins beforehand. He's feeding every 2 hours or so. Could it be something other than my supply? If it is my supply what can I do to increase it?

[Debs75]

Do you still need the nipple shields? They can be a help for a day or two. If you are still in pain without them then your latch and position needs looking at and maybe adjusting. He may find it hard to suck through the nipple shields, the bottle would of been free flowing so he had less work to do so drank more.

At 6 weeks as well he could be on a growth spurt, if so he will feed and feed and feed to up your supply. That is how you increase supply. Every 2 hours or so sounds well within normal at 6 weeks, he feeds little and often as that is all his small stomach will be able to handle. 3oz of formula would of felt like being at an all you can eat buffet.

Do you have any breast feeding supporters/counsellors/cafes you can see and talk to more in depth?

[JW37]

I do feed without the nipple shields but they get very sore without them so I tend to stick with them. Today I did both and ds2 was the same either way but it has only been like this for a couple of days.
The pain was nothing to do with poor latch or positioning. I have been diagnosed with reynauds. it is often mistaken for poor latch etc. but not many people know about it. I posted about it earlier if anyone's experienced unexplained pain.
I see a bf counsellor every week but I'm away next week so won't be going.

[showtunesgirl]

6 weeks is really tough. I remember feeling really down but really all you can do is just feed, feed, feed, offering both sides over and over again until they are done. They are just trying to up your supply.

[vigglewiggle]

I agree with Debs. Also, be mindful that if you introduce formula you will reduce your supply. Your body will produce as he demands, so if you reduce demand, you will reduce supply. It sounds like you are doing really well, don't give up!

[Halfcups]

Ah bless you week six is a tough one. Just keep on feeding! Look after yourself with plenty of good food and fluids and rest, rest, rest. I wish you well. You re doing magnificently x

[SirBoobAlot]

There is a huge growth spurt at six weeks. Just keep on feeding, and it will ease off. If you're concerned about your supply, introducing formula will actually be detrimental.

Keep going, promise you it get easier :)