Breastfed Babe + Working Mom = Pumping
Formula Fed Babe + Working Mom = No Pumping
So what's your magic formula? I'll tell you mine, but you'll have to keep reading. For the past six months I've maintained a solid pumping schedule at work resulting in three pumps a day to produce the 12 ounces of milk Tatum needs while I am away. It's a pain in the ass and it's THE only issue I have with mothering. Last week the pumping reached a new level of discomfort that resulted in piercing pain and bleeding. Luckily, this occurred on a Thursday and I had the weekend to recover without the use of the breast pump. Fortunately the body heals, but I made the decision to wean my breast off the pump - engorgement and milk supply being the two main issues. As much as I am 100% for stopping pumping, I am 100% wanting to continue breastfeeding.
So my magic formula is a bit of both. I've reduced pumping to once per day while at work and I feed Tatum in the morning and at night. To maintain this, she's taking formula twice a day, mid-morning and mid-afternoon. This past weekend Tatum had her first bottle of formula while being with me. It was so easy and so convenient and she thought it was oh so good. The girl seems not to care where the milk is coming from as long as it's coming. Therefore the real issue is weaning myself off of Tatum; but not just yet.
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2 comments:
Hey! I have had to supplement Wesley since I'm pregnant. As hard as I tried, my milk supply couldn't keep up while making baby #2. It's true, I think it was harder for me than Wesley. He still nurses before naps and bedtime, but the bulk of his nutrition has had to come from formula. When I first found out I was pregnant that was my biggest concern (if I would still be able to nurse Wesley), but I've come to terms with it, and I think we're both happier. It is such a special gift to be able to nurse our babies. I never dreamed when I first started that it would be me that needed to be weaned!! :) Good luck to you guys!!
Megan,
Pumping and working is very hard to do.The fact that you have breastfed and pumped for 6 months is awesome! Don't feel bad if you need to stop esp. with teeth coming in.A bite on the nipple is all that it usually takes.OUCH!! You are doing a wonderful job as a mom.I really enjoy the pictures here and on facebook.Love,Aunt Sue
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