Breastfeeding woes

[cinnamonbun23]

Hi everyone,

I'm new here, and looking for a little advice if possible? My dd is 9 weeks old, and has been exclusively b/f since birth, but over the last three/four weeks, my supply seems to have dramatically dropped off, and she is never satisfied following a feed (I'm feeding from both sides each feed too) My boobs feel 'empty' after each feed, and to be honest I often feel that there's nothing there for her to have, when she's looking to feed 30 minutes after a feed. I'm eating and drinking as I should.

So, I'd spoken to my HV who said her weight gain is 'satisfactory'. She suggested talking to the bf support team. I emailed them, got an email back saying someone would be in touch and then heard nothing else (I emailed 2 weeks ago) My hv went off on annual leave for a fortnight, so not really knowing what else to do, I made an appointment with my GP and saw him yesterday. He said she's had 9 weeks of breastmilk, and that I should be pleased I've managed that, and that formula is essentially as good as bm now anyway and to basically give up. I got really upset, as all I needed was some help or advice and everywhere I turn I seem to get no where.

I've looked around online, and done all the various things suggested. I pump for around 20 mins after a feed, I practically feed her all the time (my oh has started to call her the limpet!) I've tried resting etc

Does anyone have any words of wisdom or advice that could work? I've got a three year old ds too, so going to bed for a bit doesn't really work as dh works pretty long hours and I've no one that can help out! Feel really stuck in a rut.

Thanks for taking the time to read my huge post!!

So sorry you've had so little help so far-especially from your GP.

After the first 4-6 weeks your breasts will soften, it just means things have settled down.

If the weight gain is fine and your baby seems happy, then just keep going! If she's wanting more milk, then just be led by her....she could be going through a growth spurt.

If you want to chat to someone, try the breastfeeding helplines, they will be able to reassure you.

Badger is right. What you are experiencing with your breasts is 100 per cent normal. It is absolutely shocking your Hv and gp were not able to explain this to you and instead went along with the idea that there is a problem.

Well established breastfeeding, as yours is, no longer over produces to the extent to breasts feel full. Instead breast milk is made very quickly in response to the baby's sucking. In addition the fatty tissue that gives our breasts shape and fullness when we are neither pg or bf becomes replaced by milk making and storing tissue which is not fatty. Result: softer emptier breasts, making milk just as merrily as before.

Unless your baby is showing signs of being under nourished (and this is not the case) then there is no need for concern. No need for expressing either unless you want to do it for some other reason.

Sounds like all us well and you might even want to inform your gp and Hv of the gaps in their knowledge . I will post a link later when not on my phone.

Totally agree with the above. Your breasts will have been big and hard to start with, when your milk first came in, but as BF gets established your body gets used to producing the right amount of milk and they become softer and yes, after a baby has had a good feed they can become quite empty feeling. I'm shocked that with BF going so well both your HV and GP have given you such crap advice

OP you're doing great. Make sure you drink plenty of water each day and eat a healthy, nourishing diet. Why are you pumping after feeds - is it so your DP can feed your DD? If not, I'd stop as its not necessary. It can be helpful when you're trying to build up your supply, but BF is established now and your DD is gaining well and feeding regularly.

Dr Sears' The Breastfeeding Book is quite helpful for trouble shooting. I have a copy I no longer need if you want me to send it to you. La Leche League International is a helpful resource for too.