Kyleigh

Kyleigh was born exactly on her due date at 3:31am, 9-21-01. I had planned on breastfeeding from the very beginning. From all the classes the one on breastfeeding was the most important to me. I wanted to know what it was going to be like.

Well, as they say, nothing can prepare you for childbirth or breastfeeding. She roomed with us the first morning and afternoon but went to the nursery that 1st night. The hospital respected my wishes and brought her to me every couple of hours. That was tough because the lactation nurse wasn't there at night and only helped me in the daytime. She seemed to nurse a little but only when I would stand up and walk around!

The next day the lactation nurse helped me get her really latched on. What a difference that made! The sensation made my toes curl, she was a vigorous sucker, probably because she had not really eaten the night before. Once home from the hospital, that night I had more trouble again.

The lactation nurse came by that following afternoon and assisted with latch on again, the football hold. I had trouble with the football hold because Kyleigh would buck and wiggle and scream. I had an epidural during labor and believe now that it did delay my milk from coming in as quickly, which was probably adding to Kyleigh's frustration. The nurse suggested a little formula on my nipples to entice her to latch on and that did seem to work.

My husband was terrific help when my milk did come in. I was leaning over the baby on the ottoman and nursing while he pumped the other side, all the while bawling! Such emotions! I gave my self 30 day goals and that really worked! Once past the 2 weeks there was only 1 other time at 6 to 8 weeks (growth spurt time) did my nipples get tender although not as bad as those 1st 2 weeks.

Lanolin and olive oil do work wonders as do no bras! In fact the best nursing bras are the bralette style top with a elastic band at the bottom and adjustable straps. When engorged just adjust the straps and when it's time to feed just slip the strap off or lift the band up. Much easier than traditional nursing bras!