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!
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins 🍫 These are a household favorite! They are even excellent as mini muffins. I like putting them in the fridge and/or freezer to last longer. Not only are they yummy but they are incredibly easy to make with only six ingredients needed. Directions Preheat oven to 350° and spray the muffin pan Put cake mix, oil, water, and eggs into the mixer. Mix for about 2 minutes Add pumpkin and mix together for another minute Mix in chocolate chips Scoop batter into the prepared muffin pan about 3/4 full Bake for about 15-17 minutes. ENJOY! Ingredients 15 oz Canned pumpkin Spice cake mix 1 cup water 3 eggs 1/2 cup vegetable oil Chocolate chips ( I like to mix half a bag of semi-sweet and milk chocolate together)(mini chocolate chips are great to use too) @professormother Pumpkin Chocolate chip Muffins to mix up your breakfast 😍 Even though it's not pumpkin fall season this recipe is binge worthy. It's super simple to throw together last minute. I pers
Get your family to eat vegetables with easy and delicious recipes. Monster Green Mini Chocolate Chip Muffins Ingredients 1 ripe banana 3 large eggs ¼ cup almond butter or peanut butter ⅓ cup honey 1-2 cups fresh baby spinach ¾ cup rolled oats 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional) ½ teaspoon fine sea salt ¼ cup mini chocolate chips @professormother Now that he is a toddler it is difficult to squeeze vegetables into his diet. He especially loves these because I call them monster muffins 💪 It makes them extra special and he loves the green color. Blending vegetables is a great way to mix in those important foods. let me know in the comments how they worked out for your little one 🩷 #monster #monstermuffins #chocolate #chocolatechipmuffins #spinachmuffins #toddlerfood #toddlermeals #toddlersnack #yummy #love #bake #easyrecipe #professormother #momsoftiktok #peanutbutterhoneybanana ♬ Send Me on My Way Fol
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