Newborn son. I want to try expressing and work up to BF. Advice please.

[Bloodylovely]

Hi all, I've just given birth to my lovely baby and would really like to provide him with my milk. I exclusively formula fed my other children as I didn't have the confidence to try BF but would love to give it a go this time.

Part of the issue I have is that I have flat nipples so was always embarrassed to ask for advice from midwives. I've decided to buy a pump, try to express and hopefully go from there.

Can you reccomend one?
Any tips?

My milk is coming in now and it seems like such a waste to atleast not try right?

Thanks :)

Sounds like you're doing amazing! Well done. It can be a very difficult and emotional thing to navigate.

Just wanted to add that I also have flat nipples and still breastfeeding my baby at 7 months. I needed shields at first but he self weaned when ready and latches really well now. I still give a bottle of expressed milk every day too.

I've had some problems with supply but the best thing to increase it is to either let your baby nurse and cluster feed as often as possible, or try power pumping if expressing. I was able to increase how much I expressed by getting into a routine of pumping at the same time every day and I also used a microwaveable heat pack for a few mins before pumping, as heat seemed to really help (shower/bath beforehand also good). I tried fenugreek and mother's tea but I really don't think they worked for me. Good luck, you're doing a great job!

You are doing amazingly.

If you were my friend I'd deliver a big box of cakes to your doorstep and give you a big hug 🌸