Re-starting breastfeeding

[Louba4]

Hello,

So basically, I’m really wanting to restart breastfeeding after around 3 1/2 weeks of only formula feeding. DS is just over 6 weeks old, was EBF for a couple of days, then combination fed due to numerous things such as poor latch, possible tongue tie and me not producing enough to keep him satisfied initially.

Then when DP returned to work I found it really hard to find the time to express and feed whilst still recovering myself and eventually just gave him formula.

I’m still feeling really disappointed for not continuing to breastfeed as I never wanted to bottle feed and I’m hating it and I know I’ll always regret it if I don’t give it another try!

The thing is I asked my health visitor about it today, hoping for advice and encouragement and she basically looked at me like I was a mad woman and that it would be impossible!!

So I just wondered if anyone else had reintroduced breastfeeding and if it was successful after such a long break? Or knew anyone that had?

I am still producing milk and willing to stay home to pump all of the time to build my supply back up!!

Any advice appreciated!!

Mainly bumping for you as I have no experience! But I think you would probably need to pump every three hours round the clock (middle of the night is really important for milk production) and match by as often as possible!

If baby will still latch on, I'd cancel everything for 2-3 days and go to bed with your baby/Kindle/Netflix/lots of snacks and water. Keep your top off and let baby feed and feed.

Good luck!

It is certainly possible! I have heard of people relactating after weeks or even months. Can you go to a support group or get access a lactation consultant? I think face to face support at this point will be a big help.
As above have said, plenty of skin to skin and free access to the breast. Really you should aim to pump every 2 hours during the day and 3-4 hours at night.

Also, there are fabulous support groups on Facebook that I highly recommend you join!

It's not impossible - I was ill after birth so DS was formula fed for the first week or so then combo fed while I worked to get him back to exclusively BF. He's 16 weeks now and EBF.
For me nipple shields were the key as he was getting breast milk with a "bottle teat". Then he decided one day he wanted it straight from the tap, so to speak.

You need to find your nearest La Leche League group, they can help.

Kelly mom

Domperidone
Pump
Love and latch

I did this with my son but gave up again as my meds meant my milk wasn't safe

Good on you
Xxxx