I had planned on breastfeeding but ended up using formula. I wasn't able to try to breastfeed right away due to some problems with the baby upon delivery and I didn't see him for hours afterwards. I was nervous and stressed out and tired due to concern for the baby and a 20 hour labor. I tried it for one feeding and the baby did good according to the nurse who was helping me but I didn't do it again. Anyway, my problem is I have been feeling very upset about not trying to stick to it and wondered if it is to late to try and if it is not what exactly should I do?

Thank you for your help in advance.




 

Dear Susan,

No, it is definitely not too late to begin breastfeeding! First of all you might want to just try putting your baby up against your breast to see what happens. Some babies will go immediately to the breast even with nearly two weeks of bottles! My best friend did this 15 years ago when her baby had to stay in the hospital for two weeks after she was born. She brought her home, put her to the breast, and never looked back. That is unusual, though, and I would imagine that it would not be quite that easy.

It will take some work on your part, but it will be worth it! A clear silicone nipple shield will help tremendously if a baby is used to a bottle nipple. Medela makes such a shield. These are very inexpensive, usually about $5.00. You can call 1-800-TELLYOU and then enter your zip code to find a local source. You wear this shield over your nipple while breastfeeding because it will feel more like the bottle nipple to your baby.

After the baby is latching-on well with the shield, you can begin attempting to latch him on without it. Spend as much time just nuzzling your baby with skin to skin contact as you can. If would also be helpful for you to rent a hospital-grade electric pump to help bring the milk back.

An alternative idea is to purchase a supplemental device which you wear around your neck on a nylon cord. Formula is put into the bottle, and tiny tubes are taped to your breast. The baby feeds at the breast, gets the formula, but stimulates your breasts to make milk. This is how adoptive mothers can breastfeed their babies. Because there are a number of ways you can go, as well as different products, it would be extremely helpful for you to try to find a local lactation consultant to work with you. If you cannot find local help, please let me know.

Cher Sealy, RN, BSN, IBCLC, LLLL





 

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