When Breastfeeding Doesn't Go as Planned
Week two with my Community Partner Kellie of Green Living & Wellness. She’s got loads to share on the topic of what to do when breastfeeding doesn’t go as planned. I can tell you from first-hand experience that while the physical tolls of breastfeeding complications are no small thing, for me, it was more of a mental marathon because I quickly bathed in negative self-talk and assumed that because the baby and I were having issues it HAD to be something. I effed up. I’m not sure why I and so many mamas I know do this to ourselves so quickly. If we can be our own biggest cheerleaders, we can’t expect anyone else to step up for the challenge, right?
What you’ll read below is just a teaser of her full-length post. Please click here to read her thoughts in their entirety, there are way too many helpful nuggets in there to skip!
Breastfeeding is the best way to provide babies with the necessary nutrients for growth and development. However, when breastfeeding isn't starting off well, there are several options available, such as collecting colostrum, donor milk, and formula.
However, breastfeeding can sometimes go wrong due to various reasons, such as medical conditions, low milk supply, or difficulties with latching.
Collecting colostrum can be done by hand expression or with a breast pump to help stimulate milk production and provide the baby with the nutrients they need until the mother's milk is more abundant or the latch has improved. It is essential to work with a lactation consultant to ensure proper collection and storage of colostrum.
Donor milk is another option when breastfeeding is not possible. Donor milk is breast milk that has been donated by a lactating mother and is screened for safety. Donor milk can be obtained from milk banks or through peer-to-peer donation programs. Donor milk is beneficial for premature babies who are at a higher risk of developing complications such as necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) and sepsis, both of which can be fatal. Donor milk contains important antibodies that help protect the baby from infections and promote healthy growth and development.
Formula feeding is a common option when breastfeeding is not possible or isn't going well. It is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions for preparation and storage to prevent contamination and ensure proper nutrition. It is also important to choose an appropriate formula that meets the baby's nutritional needs. Ready-to-feed is the best option for the first 2-3 months as the powdered formula has the highest risk of bacterial contamination.
If nursing is your goal but it didn't start out how you planned, keep these goals in mind
Feed the baby: you decide what your baby will consume
Keep the breast working: hand expression and pumping
Seek help to work on what is not working
If you have questions for Kellie, click the button below. Help is just around the corner. You don’t have to figure all of this out on your own!
