temporarily stopping breastfeeding at 3 weeks

[Eviewin]

I have a 3 week old ds, breastfeeding has got really well from the start and we're in a good pattern now. Problem is, I'm suffering from increasingly painful back problems, and will have to go back to the doctor and say that paracetamol just isn't cutting it - I can't sleep, sit or easily hold ds.

So I'm anticipating the doc will want to put me on medication that isn't compatible with breastfeeding - I was told last week to stick with the paracetamol for now for that reason - and I need some advice on how I can stop this messing up the feeding when I'm better.

I'd be really gutted if this caused problems feeding - it feels like to one thing I'm doing well as a new mum.

I haven't tried expressing yet, but have an avent isis waiting - with maybe 24 hours before I go on to medication, how much can I express? Is formula inevitable? And what should I do in the meantime to maintain my supply?

Very few painkillers are not compatible with bf, Evie. Check the web, the archives here, and balance out the known risks of not bf with the usually very theoretical 'risk' of a small amount of meds getting to the milk in any way that affects your ds.

Have you tried an osteopath? My mum suffers with back problems and finds this really helps.
(Obviously I don't know what is causing your back problems, apologies if that's not appropriate)

i was given co-dydramol to take for back pain and migraine relief whilst still b/feeding.

Although, DS was much older at the time - not sure if it makes a difference.

here - great advice on bf and painkillers

If you do have to take medication that isn't compatible with breastfeeding then you could always formula feed during this time, and then 'pump and dump'. This would then keep your milk supply up.

I hope you manage to get your back problems sorted out - obviously don't know the whole story but if it's a recent problem have you looked into different ways of sitting/lying while you're breastfeeding? I had problems in the first couple of months (ds now 7 mths) and I visited an osteopath, who said it was to do with the increased weight in my boobs from the milk. Whatever he did helped, and I also made sure that when I was feeding that my back was really supported with cushions. I was told by my physiotherapist (who was there at the birth) to make sure that I had so much support that whilst feeding I could totally relax without having to move at all. Apparently this is the 'test' to see if you're correctly positioned. Apologies if this information is useless!

Many thanks - looks like my doc is being super cautious about what medication is appropriate - I will go into my appointment informed and less panic-stricken!!

Thanks again.

I'm sure you have enough information, but just to add that after my c-section i was taking dihydracodeine, paracetomol, and diclofenac in rotation and they were all ok with bfing.

I hope can get some relief