Have posted a few times before as 21wo DD and I have had a bumpy ride when it has come to BF. Basically I now know that most of our problems inc slow weight gain are due to low supply caused by underactive thyroid. It is also the cause of a very delayed letdown (the thyroid controls oxytocin). I'm now on meds but on a very low dosage, increasing small amounts at a time.
It seems as though each time my dose is increased my milk increases for 3-4 days then peters off again. I've also been prescribed domperidone (on day 5 but no noticeable effect yet)
Ultimately I know the best way to increase my supply is to feed more often. Here lies my problem. DD is a fussy feeder at the best of times. She will pull off after 2-3mins when my flow has slowed, won't go back on and is too impatient to wait for a letdown on the other side. She never seems satisfied after a feed anymore.
I know it's counterproductive but I gave her a bottle immediately after a feed this afternoon and she took 3oz.
How can I get her to feed more often to increase my supply whilst the thyroid drugs take effect? FWIW I'm pumping after most feeds to drain the breast (get about 1oz out). I find it very hard to get a letdown with DD let alone with a pump so pumping in between feeds is just for the stimulation rather than emptying.
I think she'd find a day of skin to skin in bed incredibly boring as she won't sit still for a minute.
I'm eating lots of oats and taking fenugreek too. Feeds are usually 2 hourly and she won't let me feed her more frequently than this (get crying fits)
Thanks in advance for any suggestions