Something I haven't mentioned that I also do for families is I support breastfeeding for many mothers, and as a postpartum doula client with us, you will receive free, ongoing breastfeeding support as part of our care. If you choose to bottle feed or formula feed, don't let that stop you from getting help. We support all families, but we DO have the ability to help you through all phases of breastfeeding - should you decide that is how you want to nourish your little one.This isn't the norm for doula care. I've received special training and certification as a Lactation Support and Educator. Not all doulas have this additional training, but many are still wonderful when it comes to the basics of breastfeeding support.
Like the mother I met with today, at times, you might also find yourself wondering if you are making enough milk. Babies go through growth spurts that can trick us into thinking we aren't producing enough because they are gobbling it all up and wanting more - which is good, because in the end, it will increase your supply.
Think: More Demand => More Supply.
So today, I was visiting a lovely mama who is adjusting to life with her new baby. She asked me to visit because she was concerned about her supply. I offered to bring my newborn scale so that we could do a little experiment...
We were able to weigh the baby after waking and a diaper change (9 pounds, 3 ounces), then she fed from both breasts for a total of 25 minutes (he was efficient, relaxed and happy when he was done). Then we weighed him again (9 pounds, 6 ounces).
Low and behold! Even though he had been eating like a crazy little monster and acting like he wasn't getting much, he was actually eating 3 ounces total from both breasts - which is a lot for a newborn of his age (3 weeks)!!
He has also grown over a pound since I last saw him, we discovered. So that answers a lot of questions for that mom, and reassures her that she is doing everything right and he is just growing super fast and that her breasts WILL catch up to his demand for more milk. :)
My #1 piece of advice for new moms who are experiencing what feels like a set-back in their breastfeeding relationship, is to seek out qualified help. Do you have a breastfeeding consultant who can come to your house? Those are the best. We have support available, and if a situation goes above and beyond our expertise, we have resources in the community that we are happy to direct you to, in order to get your needs and the needs of your baby met, in a timely, professional manner.
Keep checking back, because soon, I will be posting another segment on how to make your best milk. Quantity AND Quality. :)
For now, keep loving those babies, mamas!
Anne
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