Having to heal, deal with exhaustion, and breastfeeding can become a lot during the newborn stage. In the beginning, I was adamant that I would breastfeed when I was pregnant. I never understood why anyone would want to use formula since breastfeeding is so "natural".
I got a taste of my own medicine and dealt with sore cracked nipples, low milk production, and clogged milk ducts. It was frustrating that I could not feed him. I felt like a failure. It led to many sleepless nights and an aggravated newborn.
Additionally, remember that your mental health comes first. If breastfeeding becomes too difficult or exhausting, it is perfectly fine to switch to formula. Once my little one was 6 months old, I was completely dry, and giving him formula was the best decision I made for the both of us. In terms of formula, Kirkland was my favorite brand since it did not contain harsh ingredients. Be cautious of the ingredients some formulas contain sugar and corn syrup.
Reasons
Not being able to breastfeed or having a low milk supply can be because of hormone imbalance, medications, breast surgery, the baby not latching correctly, and many other factors. To alleviate the pain of sore nipples and low supply I used these suggested items. They helped me to soothe my breast and continue to breastfeed for an additional 6 months. I recommend trying these tips out to see if they can help you on your journey. I would love to hear in the comments below if some or all of these items were helpful to you!
Soothing Breast
Breastfeeding became so painful I would grit my teeth and almost cry every time he latched. My nipples were raw and cracked which led to clogged ducts. Instantly, I searched for items that might make breastfeeding more bearable. Lansinoh was one of my favorite brands to use on my breast. The Lansinoh Soothies lasted for about a week. In order to ease the pain, I would put it in the freezer and then place it on my nipple. They also protected my sensitive nipples from being rubbed against my bra. I applied Lansinoh nipple balm for my cracked nipples. After I put it on I would place a nursing pad over it. It is safe for your little one to consume as well. Likewise, I enjoyed Lansinoh TheraPearl Breast Therapy Pack because it could be used to reduce pain, relieve clogged ducts, and encourage milk flow while breastfeeding. Frida Mom will forever be one of my favorite brands. Frida Mom products help with cracked nipples and they have multiple packs to choose from. Now I love giving breast support products to expecting moms. Add them to your baby registry too. They are must-haves in your hospital bag, especially nipple cream.
Breastfeeding- Low Milk Production
I tried the lactation foods/drinks, Brewer's yeast, and bought $50 lactation supplements. I also did power pumping and I felt like my life was consumed by breastfeeding or pumping. Nothing seemed to jump-start my milk flow. If I was lucky, I would have an extra ounce of milk. I saw some improvement in eating oatmeal but overall Body Armor helped me increase my milk supply. I went from producing 2 ounces to almost 5-6 ounces. Body Armor kept me hydrated and it was nice to drink something besides water.
Items that helped me the most during breastfeeding were the Haakaa and breast lactation massager. I loved getting every last drop of liquid gold from the Haakaa while breastfeeding. I provided a demonstration video below on how to use this item the most effectively. A lactation massager can be another effective way to help with clogged ducts and improve milk output. I also recommend buying nursing/pumping bras and shirts. They help make feeding your little one convenient and quick. Having easy access allows you to breastfeed a fussy baby without the hassle.
What I Would Redo
Now looking back I did not feed myself enough to sustain my supply. I believe I would have been able to breastfeed longer if I would have been less stressed and had eaten more during that time. My postpartum experience created a few setbacks for me as you can read here.It can be difficult to find time for yourself even to eat in those first few months. Having meals prepared and planned before your little one arrives can relieve a lot of stress. Follow your instincts, rest, and do lots of skin-to-skin with your baby. At times, breastfeeding may feel like a lot of work, but you will miss the bonding moments, I know I do. You got this mama!
Rainbow Plates It can be challenging to figure out what to cook for your little one. I thought after bottles the struggle would be over. I didn't realize that I would have to plan three meals daily. Some days are granola bar days but I looked into the ingredients and wanted to provide him more nutrition. He can be a super picky eater so I have to sneak in some ingredients. I will post a recipe from this page each week to help you mix up your meals at your house. Enjoy the moment and try getting them involved when you cook. It helps them to feel pride in what they are eating. Let me know in the comments what your little one liked and how you feel about meal times in your house. Red Breakfast- Strawberry grape smoothie Blend til oats are no longer visible about 8 strawberries, ⅔ cup grapes, 1 ripe banana (optional), ⅓ cup rolled oats, 1 cup ripple/oat/almond milk, a sprinkle of salt, and ½ cup of ice. Enjoy in your favorite cup! Lunch- Red apple, marinara sauce, a
Cane's Chicken My husband use to work at Cane's and would rave about being able to make the best Cane's chicken. I did not believe him til he made it one day and was not able to eat fried chicken the same at home. We decided to share the recipe so you are able to enjoy it at home. 💓 Directions 1. Prepare your chicken by adding salt and water to a gallon ziplock bag. 2. Add your chicken to the bag and allow it to sit in the fridge for no less than 2 hours or overnight. 3. In your fryer or on the stovetop bring oil to a boil. (365F) 4. In a medium size bowl whisk eggs and milk. 5. In another medium size bowl add your flour. 6. Take your prepared chicken out of the fridge. Place chicken in batter (eggs and milk mixture). Then move to flour. 7. Put it in the oil for about 6-8 minutes. Shake about every 2 minutes. Take out and cool for about 5 minutes. 8. Mix all your ingredients into a bowl for the classic Cane's sauce and Enjoy! Recipe 3 cups of water 2 tablespoons
Sea Search Number Fishing Count Sea Creature Exploration Learning and Directions With this activity, you can mix it up in two different ways for two new ways of learning. This sensory bin helps with counting, number recognition, and exploration. Plus who doesn't love to play and eat at the same time? 😋 To make this activity, prepare 6-9oz blue jello and put it into a clear bin. If you would like the sea creatures to be set in the ocean place them in the jello at this time. I found it difficult to pull the number out if set in jello beforehand. Then place in the fridge slanted for at least four hours. After the jello has been set and your little one is ready to learn, grind up one package of graham crackers in a blender to make the "sand" for the ocean jello. If you are planning to do the number fishing count, place 1-9 into the ocean. Give your child the fishing rod. Once they catch the number hold it up for them to examine and say the number with them. If you are p
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