Bottle to Breast

[Strongmama07]

Hello my name is Alyson I just had my baby on the 1st he was a 36 weeker and spent 1 week in the nicu. We tried breastfeeding for 5 days and just couldn't get a good latch so I just pumped and fed it through a bottle now that im home I want to start trying to breastfeed again. We have breastfed three times today and so far so good im just a little worried about my supply when I pump I only make 1 oz but he seems to be happy and he doesn't wake up hungry I started taking fenugreek 2 days ago but still haven't seen a improvement can you give me some tips on keeping him on breastfeeding and how much of the funugreek should I take I have been taking 2 three times daily. Thanks so much.
Alyson

[KerrySmithIBCLC]

Hi Alyson! Congrats on your baby. I too had a 36-weeker who spent a week in the NICU, so I know how difficult that is.

At this point, I don't know that I would recommend taking fenugreek. It's possible that you may not need it, and there are more effective ways of increasing your milk supply.

I strongly encourage you to contact an IBCLC in your area with whom you can work closely and in person to make sure you get breastfeeding off to a good start.

What you pump is not a good indication of your supply, so try not to worry that you're only getting an ounce when you pump.

How many wet and poopy diapers does y our baby have per day, and what are the color and consistency of the poops?

Are you bringing your baby in for regular weight checks? It wouldn't be a bad idea to do that until you know that he's eating well. At this age, he should be gaining 5-8 oz/week.

Right now, the best way to increase supply is to pump for 5-10 minutes after every feeding in order to make sure your breasts are being adequately drained. Many preemies have a weak suck and don't adequately drain the breasts, which can cause your milk supply to decrease. But usually pumping after feedings until baby is bigger and stronger is the only thing that's necessary to ensure an adequate supply.

Please contact a lactation consultant in your area! Working with a preemie definitely involves special challenges, and a good LC will help make sure your breastfeeding relationship gets off on the right foot.