Breasts not feeling full anymore and mastitis advice please

[melliemoo1]

Just wondered if anyone else went through this. My milk came in on day 4 and my ds was instantly more settled and slept one 4 and a half hour stretch that night. Then on day 8 my breasts did not seem to fill anymore or satisfy him without feeding from both breasts each feed. I tried to feed more frequently to boost my supply (did every 2-2.30 instead of 3 and fed pretty much whenever I could). This seemed to improve again slightly by day 10. But never as full. Is this normal? I just wish they were full like they were as he seemed more settled.

Also I have mastitis which I am on antibiotics for which has improved but now I think it is on the other breast now as started getting the chills tonight. Which I think is being caused by his latch as it is still painful even if I ensure he gets a full mouth of my areola.

It just seems like such hard work but lm determined to carry on as long as I can. By this stage with my eldest son had the same supply issues but all pain went by day 10 at latest.

Anyone else been in the same boat? Or have advice would be great.

[owainsmum]

It sounds like he's having a growth spurt. He may want to feed all evening even though it feels like your breasts are empty, but the suckling stimulates milk production and your supply will quickly increase to meet demand. Hopefully in a day or two he will settle down again. Mastitis shouldn't affect your supply, and is also a good reason to feed more frequently, to make sure that any blockages are cleared.
Good luck, and congratulations on your new baby!

[melliemoo1]

Thanks owainsmum just feels like I may be playing catch up all the time. Around what age should my milk supply settle to meet his demands more? He was 9lb 4 so a big boy don't know if that makes any difference.

[owainsmum]

When they're tiny they have little growth spurts all the time, but it should only take a day or two for your milk supply to catch up. Just feed whenever he is hungry because it stimulates milk production. Remember that you can't over feed a breastfed baby, and don't worry about waiting 3 hours between feeds if he's hungry sooner. Just go with what he needs and everything will be easier!

[melliemoo1]

Yes I think I need to relax a bit more and just go with it. Had a chat with the health visitor today and they are going to come and observe a feed to check my latch and give general support which will be helpful too. Had a better night last night as well. So getting there I think.