Oh, why can't she just steadily gain weight. Peanut gained the minimum amount required last week, but over the last 6 days she only gained 1.4 oz. I think the minimum for a 6 day period would be 3 oz. I'm not sure b/c I haven't been able to talk to the dr about it.
My milk supply is definitely down. I think it's a combination of stretching out feedings, pumping less, and she is just not big enough to suck vigorously to stimulate the breast enough. It doesn't help that I am in a constant state of stress over whether or not she will get enough from my breast. I had a breast reduction 10 years ago. We've been amazed at how good my production has been, but that was with 3 hour feedings and pumping after nearly every feeding. I don't know what the dr is going to say, but my plan is to go back to 3 hour feedings around the clock and to pump more times per day. I won't say how many pumpings...let's just say as many as I can stand.
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I know it's frustrating - especially if you're feeding every three hours your own sleep deficit must be kicking in pretty heavily. Keep up the pumping and hopefully this phase will be short!
ReplyDeleteMy daughter was always lagging in the weight percentiles - there were other things that the dr. looked for to indicate malnutrition (I think a depressed fontanel, lack of tears - there was a standard list of symptoms) and she didn't have any of those problems. She was just a skinny-minnie - and still has toothpick legs like her dad.
That said, my dr. also believes that if a parent thinks something is wrong it's worth looking into - studies show that even new parents have a good sense of whether or not there is a problem. I had to go to the dr. three times one week before they finally found the serious issue that was probably causing my poor kid a tremendous amount of pain. Trust your instincts - even if they haven't slept well in weeks!
I agree with Lorraine. Trust your insticts and if that means calling your Dr. daily or going in, then go for it. Whatever you need to do to help alleviate some stress. I think your plan to bump up the feedings is a solid one.
ReplyDeleteKeep us posted!
It's so great to hear you posting about your baby! It does sound like she needs more milk. Don't feel bad if you can't produce it all and need some formula. She sounds great!!
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