Going from problem to problem breastfeeding wise, not sure what to do..

[Amara123]

Hi all

It's like what the thread title says, I am currently breastfeeding my three month old but am feeling low today as it's painful and I'm wondering if it is costing me my mental health.

At the beginning my baby had poor latch and working with lactation consultants I used shields for about 8 weeks, I managed to wean my baby off those and it felt like I had cracked it.

Then I noticed some pain between feeds and it was due to nipple blanching. I did my best with his latch and squeezed the nipples when they got sore and when the blood went back in it was fine, kept going.

In the past week or so I developed a nipple blister which was excruciating and didn't improve over four days despite bursting. I went to see the lactation nurse again and she recommended Dr Newman's all purpose nipple ointment and she thought there was a fungal infection on the baby's tongue so he is also on oral antifungal.

As I sit here now my nipple burns with pain on and off (after 5 days of treatment) and blanches independently of feeding. I also have an ache between my shoulder blades. It's probably vasospasm and could be latch related (but I've done what I can with that) or due to Raynaud's (which I do get in my hands). I feel like it's never going to be comfortable and I'm so tired of being in pain. I don't have mastitis or a blocked duct as the boob feels ok.

The baby is thriving and is gaining weight beautifully although I do have a forceful letdown which makes him gassy/colicky so I also have to manage that.

I guess what I'm asking is if this is a normal amount of problems, am I a bad mother for considering a switch to formula and also is there a risk a switch to formula might make his tummy problems worse which would also make things hard for me.

Sorry for the long post, I'm interested in hearing others experiences. I am going to call the lactation consultant tomorrow for some more advice but at this point it feels like I'm always on to them..

[Ploppymoodypants]

I don’t know if that is a normal amount of problems. My DD is 6weeks and I have had thrush and v sore nipples day 3-5 but that’s it.

What I can say for sure is that changing to formula won’t make you a bad mum. Why don’t you formula feed and express a bit so baby still has your milk, gives your nipples a break, can heavily reduce supply or keep it going if you change your mind.

[Amara123]

It's difficult isn't it? I actually don't mind it at all when I have no pain but it feels difficult at the moment. I don't have much practical support day to day so perhaps tiredness is affecting how I feel too. This is hard!

[LayTheTableMabel]

for you Amara. I have had numerous issues with my 15 week old and my HV said it's not normally so tough. I agree with pp why don't you pump and give yourself a break. If you have a partner who can give some of the bottles try to have a nice bath & a little time to yourself. That way you won't loose your supply so can make a decision one way or another in a week or two. Btw I give lo 2 formula bottles a day and it works well for everyone.

[NeptuneNellie]

Have you had baby checked for tongue tie. And I mean properly checked by an IBCLC or midwife who treats tongue tie?
Symptoms sound like it could be.
You’ve done so well to get so far

[Amara123]

Hi all

Yes had two lactation consultant check for tongue tie, his upper lip is a bit tied, but you don't treat that one.

I'm thinking that I'm going to give it another fortnight until things are healed and see how I feel then. I appreciate all the thoughts and support!