SNS help

[Sunshineeeee]

Has anyone used an SNS before? My son knows how to latch and is 4.5 months but my supply is low. Anyone used it to build supply this late? Anyone used it full stop? Did it help? Is it worth me investing in one? They're quite dear at the moment so I'd like to get it if I know it works.

Thanks in advance

Bump

No one?

So sorry that you're not getting any responses on this one

Can you explain a bit more about what is happening with your supply?

@LemonScentedStickyBat I became really unwell the day my son turned 4 months. Up till this point he was exclusively breastfed. I had a fever etc and ended up misdiagnosed as covid. It was actually bacterial mastitis and by the time I realised it had been 8 days since my son fed on that side. I then started antibiotics and my supply plummeted even lower. My doctor said antibiotics can have a 'drying up' effect and unfortunately some women suffer this. It's been 3 weeks now. I pump using a hospital grade pump, offer both breasts at each feed and top up with formula. Used to pump 4oz every 2/3 hours. Now I get 1-1.5 oz combined. Sometimes just 10ml combined.

@JiltedJohnsJulie thank you

Sounds really hard, hope you feel a lot better now. The absolute best way to increase supply is to feed and express as much as possible, as I guess you know. Heated towels and breast massage before pumping increases the amount you get, as well as being as relaxed as you can (try not to look at the pump or bottle as you are expressing!). Also the number of times you express overall is more important than sticking to regular intervals (so if works better for you to express more times in the morning than afternoon that’s fine) and pumping at least once at night is really helpful.

I don’t have experience of SNS for increasing supply but suggest calling the NCT helpline maybe?

@LemonScentedStickyBat thank you for the tips. I didn't realise the number of times you express is more important than regular intervals. That's where I really struggle as everyday my routine is different depending on little ones mood.

I spoke to NCT. Might try them again. They just told me to keep doing what I am. No personal anecdotes with an SNS though.

There is a FB group where you might find some women that have used SNS - there is a big membership. Breastfeeding Support and Information UK - I used to be a member and found it v supportive

I've had mastitis twice and my supply has plummeted both times on that side but eventually returned after a few weeks pumping.

I brought the elvie hands free pump and its quite good for just slipping in your bra and having a pump on the go to get ur supply back! Its expensive but has made my life so much easier!

@Katiec89 thanks for your reply. Wow that gives me some home. It's been 3 weeks thus far. Really hope some improvements is seen in the coming weeks.

I think it's time I invest in a pump. Renting is so expensive!

@LemonScentedStickyBat thanks for the link. I'll see what I can find there.