I have been very worn out trying to fit in the 8x a day of pumping that I'm supposed to be doing to help bring in my milk supply. Graham has been fighting the SNS device. I've been forgetting to take my milk supply meds and herbal teas. It was just a such a challenge. Then last night I talked to an adoptive mom who had given it 4 weeks with her first child before calling it quits. Then with her second child she stuck with it and somewhere between 3-4 months she really noticed a big jump in her milk supply. Just to hear her talking in terms of months and not weeks was almost all I needed to help me cross the line mentally. I felt like maybe I could buck up and give it a try for another week or two, but I feel pretty sure I won't last for several more months of using that SNS device. This sweet mom gave me the name of another doctor who has a webpage with protocols for inducing lactation. He recommends that every feeding be done through the SNS. Unfortunately since Graham is so tiny and we're working hard to get him to gain weight, I can't let him use the SNS for more than a couple of feedings a day. Then with Jason going back to work tomorrow and having to travel for work off and on for the next three or four weeks, it just all adds up to the conclusion that it is time to embrace having a fully formula-fed baby.
All that to say, I am so grateful that I gave it a try. I will always remember the sweet moment that my friend Emmy came over and we got Graham to latch on for the first time. I am so grateful that I was able to bond with him in that way over the last couple of weeks. It was worth the effort.
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I truly admire you for trying it and for working so hard. You're doing a fabulous job, Courtney!
ReplyDeleteChrys
You worked really hard at that - I'm impressed! And, all of the extra non-pumping time will give you so much more time for all three kids (and yourself!?). Love you!
ReplyDeleteI think it is so neat that you've had the privilege to have him latch on. So amazing and he is so tiny. He needs some calories!!!
ReplyDeleteCourt- really proud of you for trying and being honest about your limitations and what the reality of the situation is! Just think you get to cuddle and hold him instead of getting frustrated while feeding Graham! He is so lucky to have you as a mommy and vice versa! I love you friend and you amaze me!
ReplyDeletecourtney, you did AWESOME!!!! you are doing what is best for graham and what is best for the rest of your family, you included. you are a wonderful mom and that sweet boy is growing great! love you friend :)
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