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IVFmiracle
Complete
Member since 12/12 4088 total posts
Name:
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Breastfeeding woes
I just wanted to give a special
 
To all of the moms who manage to breastfeed for 6-12 months. Can you give us who are struggling any words of encouragement?
Thankfully I have a great supply. My issue is plugged ducts on my left side. They are painful and usually last 7-12 hours, making nursing on that side difficult.
ETA: symmetry with icons. 
Message edited 11/1/2013 9:01:03 AM.
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Posted 11/1/13 8:59 AM  |
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VikingChick
LIF Adult
Member since 5/11 1024 total posts
Name:
Anna
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Breastfeeding woes
First, GREAT JOB for nursing your baby thus far! That is something to be really proud of!
As to the plugged ducts, all I can say is nurse and pump as often as possible on that side when you feel a plug coming on. It should get better as your body adjusts to the amount DD needs to feed :)
I am on 25 months... (kind of intended to stop at 12, but that never happened). Trust me, it only gets easier the older they get. Your body gets used to it, and baby gets better at it. Plus, at 4 or 5 or 6 months, some of the pressure is taken off, since they start eating solids!
You go girl... you are doing a great job! 
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| Posted 11/1/13 9:16 AM |
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MrsT809
LIF Adult
Member since 9/09 12167 total posts
Name:
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Re: Breastfeeding woes
Posted by anskiv
First, GREAT JOB for nursing your baby thus far! That is something to be really proud of!
As to the plugged ducts, all I can say is nurse and pump as often as possible on that side when you feel a plug coming on. It should get better as your body adjusts to the amount DD needs to feed :)
I am on 25 months... (kind of intended to stop at 12, but that never happened). Trust me, it only gets easier the older they get. Your body gets used to it, and baby gets better at it. Plus, at 4 or 5 or 6 months, some of the pressure is taken off, since they start eating solids!
You go girl... you are doing a great job!
Agree with all of this! You're doing great and the beginning is the hardest part. As for plugged ducts, it happened to me a few times. Just nurse on that side often, massage the area while nursing and during hot showers. Check out kellymom.com, but I think I read there to point the baby's nose toward the clog.
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| Posted 11/1/13 9:21 AM |
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jams92
Member since 1/12 6105 total posts
Name:
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Breastfeeding woes
congrats to you for lasting this long
As dd got older the more i loved nursing....it is so quick and so convenient. it was great not having to pack bottles and just being able to feed anytime. the formula is so expensive - i wish i was able to stick with bfing longer 
as far as plugged ducts - i feel your pain, they are terrible! in addition to what everyone says, always start out nursing on the left side. if you still feel full after a nursing session, pump on that side to help.
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| Posted 11/1/13 9:50 AM |
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LadyBug1209
Mommy to FOUR little men!
Member since 8/08 9655 total posts
Name:
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Re: Breastfeeding woes
Congratulations on coming this far!!! BFing is not easy, especially in the beginning, but keep going!!!
I would definitely try to nurse from the left as much as you can to avoid the plugged ducts, but I wouldn't pump more out of that breast. Removing excess milk from that side will just tell your body to keep making more and engorgement is NOT good if you're already in pain.
When you're in pain, take warm showers and massage, massage, massage the plugs out!
This FB page has been SO helpful with BFing my twins... they are so knowledgeable and I learned so much just from reading all the questions and their professional answers.
Kelly Mom FB Page
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| Posted 11/1/13 9:52 AM |
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Leb
LIF Adult
Member since 12/09 4166 total posts
Name:
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Re: Breastfeeding woes
For me I missed out of the breast feeding class as I delivered dd the day I was supposed to take it. So I totally went in blind with no idea what I was doing.
I planned 3mos for maternity but ended up staying home for 4mos. So I thought I can pump and get her to 6. At 6 I just didn't stop and didn't think much about when I would. Finally around 8mos I was like I can easily get to a year, which I did and now at 14mos we are still going strong!
The beginning is really hard bc you feel chained boob to baby, however as time goes on it's soooo much easier. Dd nurses for literally no more than 5m. I can tell she makes the most of it and sucks hard and fast and she's done. My boobs don't leak anymore and they're not as big as they were when my milk came in. They feel more "normal" and softer.
Also because of breast feeding I was back in my skinny jeans at 3 weeks pp lol! You burn lots of calories.
The pros have been for me:
Lost baby weight fast
Burn lots of calories a day so I can eat more
Minimal bottles and cleaning
No formula expense
Baby has been in daycare since 5mos and just got her first sickness ever at 14mos
A few times my supply took a dip and mothers milk tea brought it right back up.
Good luck!
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| Posted 11/1/13 10:14 AM |
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IVFmiracle
Complete
Member since 12/12 4088 total posts
Name:
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Re: Breastfeeding woes
Thanks ladies. My plugged ducts are the result of DD not latching correctly on that side.
To PP who lost all their weight 3w pp, you are so lucky!!!
I am 10w PP and I still have 10lbs to go! can't fit into any of my pants. Even my fat pants are too small.
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| Posted 11/1/13 10:22 AM |
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MrsT809
LIF Adult
Member since 9/09 12167 total posts
Name:
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Re: Breastfeeding woes
Posted by IVFmiracle
Thanks ladies. My plugged ducts are the result of DD not latching correctly on that side.
To PP who lost all their weight 3w pp, you are so lucky!!!
I am 10w PP and I still have 10lbs to go! can't fit into any of my pants. Even my fat pants are too small.
Keep at it. DD always preferred my right side and it was really hard to get her to stay awake and latched on the left. I made sure to start her on that side for the first morning feeding and all nighttime feedings. I felt like things were uneven the whole 15 months I nursed but I kept up with starting on that side often and eventually I just stopped stressing about it.
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| Posted 11/1/13 10:29 AM |
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cateyemm
Twins!
Member since 7/10 8027 total posts
Name:
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Re: Breastfeeding woes
Posted by LadyBug1209
Congratulations on coming this far!!! BFing is not easy, especially in the beginning, but keep going!!!
I would definitely try to nurse from the left as much as you can to avoid the plugged ducts, but I wouldn't pump more out of that breast. Removing excess milk from that side will just tell your body to keep making more and engorgement is NOT good if you're already in pain.
When you're in pain, take warm showers and massage, massage, massage the plugs out!
This FB page has been SO helpful with BFing my twins... they are so knowledgeable and I learned so much just from reading all the questions and their professional answers.
Kelly Mom FB Page
also you can look into lecithin to help with the plugged duct but keep nursing!
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| Posted 11/1/13 12:07 PM |
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hope316
LIF Adult
Member since 8/07 1085 total posts
Name:
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Breastfeeding woes
Try using a comb to work out the plug in the shower or feed or pump with your breast dangling
Like pp kellymom.com and the FB page is a big help
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| Posted 11/1/13 1:54 PM |
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fdny-ot
LIF Infant
Member since 2/12 123 total posts
Name:
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Breastfeeding woes
Do hot compress about 5-10 minutes before you feed baby or before you pump. That helped me a lot with plugged ducts. My DD is 19 mos now, and I'm towards the last stage of my breast feeding. :) You're doing great! Keep it up!
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| Posted 11/1/13 2:16 PM |
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Re: Breastfeeding woes
Posted by LadyBug1209
Congratulations on coming this far!!! BFing is not easy, especially in the beginning, but keep going!!!
I would definitely try to nurse from the left as much as you can to avoid the plugged ducts, but I wouldn't pump more out of that breast. Removing excess milk from that side will just tell your body to keep making more and engorgement is NOT good if you're already in pain.
When you're in pain, take warm showers and massage, massage, massage the plugs out!
This FB page has been SO helpful with BFing my twins... they are so knowledgeable and I learned so much just from reading all the questions and their professional answers.
Kelly Mom FB Page
ITA with all of this!!! It's painful, but it will pass!!!! You're doing a great thing for your LO! Go momma go! 
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| Posted 11/1/13 2:26 PM |
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Re: Breastfeeding woes
I'm pretty sure most BF moms struggle at some point, so first know that you are not alone. Second - breastfeeding any amount is amazing, so great job!
There are so many underutilized resources out there. There are a ton of FREE support groups in hospitals or through LLL. I went to one at Southside Hospital that was amazing. The LC and the other moms were do helpful and got me through all the rough patches. I would not have made it through without help!
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| Posted 11/1/13 2:35 PM |
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NoStressMom
My Heart and Soul
Member since 5/05 11122 total posts
Name:
D
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Re: Breastfeeding woes
Keep up the good work!! I had the worst time with my first and had to give her formula now with my second I'm happy to say 7 months into and still going strong bf and working full time!! You can do it!!! If I can you can!! I have my ups and downs but I just keep looking at the positive side of things I take it one day at a time.
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| Posted 11/1/13 2:52 PM |
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Maybe-Baybe
My Sunshine
Member since 7/12 3415 total posts
Name:
My only Sunshine
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Re: Breastfeeding woes
Great thread. I'm also struggling here. My issue is that DD falls asleep while nursing and mostly gets foremilk. At her last ped appointment DD didn't gain as much as she should, so I'm kinda feeling like a failure. Her ped wants us to come back in two weeks to check her weight. I'm hoping she gains enough by then. 
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| Posted 11/1/13 4:08 PM |
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jams92
Member since 1/12 6105 total posts
Name:
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Re: Breastfeeding woes
Posted by Maybe-Baybe
Great thread. I'm also struggling here. My issue is that DD falls asleep while nursing and mostly gets foremilk. At her last ped appointment DD didn't gain as much as she should, so I'm kinda feeling like a failure. Her ped wants us to come back in two weeks to check her weight. I'm hoping she gains enough by then.
it is frustrating - but it will get easier
dd falls asleep bc she is comfortable
i always did a diaper change before switching boobs to wake her up
and if i notice her sleeping before its time to switch, i would tickle her feet
also make sure she isnt snuggled up in something too cozy while feeding
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| Posted 11/1/13 4:14 PM |
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EandF
LIF Adult
Member since 11/11 1674 total posts
Name:
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Re: Breastfeeding woes
I go back to work on Monday and I'm really worried about pumping and continuing to BF. My goal is to get to 6 months and then reevaluate. Halfway there!! DD is 3 mos old today. 
It's one of the most difficult, frustrating, challenging things. I'm taking it one day at a time. It's nice to have this board and be able to speak with other mommies going through the same thing.
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| Posted 11/1/13 4:18 PM |
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cateyemm
Twins!
Member since 7/10 8027 total posts
Name:
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Re: Breastfeeding woes
Posted by Maybe-Baybe
Great thread. I'm also struggling here. My issue is that DD falls asleep while nursing and mostly gets foremilk. At her last ped appointment DD didn't gain as much as she should, so I'm kinda feeling like a failure. Her ped wants us to come back in two weeks to check her weight. I'm hoping she gains enough by then.
sorry to hear this but you arent a failure!! have you joined the kellymom group? they can definitely help you to gauge whether her weight should be a concern or not.
also read this about foremilk
http://blog.nurturedchild.ca/index.php/2011/03/29/foremilk-and-hindmilk/
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| Posted 11/1/13 4:58 PM |
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Maybe-Baybe
My Sunshine
Member since 7/12 3415 total posts
Name:
My only Sunshine
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Re: Breastfeeding woes
Posted by cateyemm
Posted by Maybe-Baybe
Great thread. I'm also struggling here. My issue is that DD falls asleep while nursing and mostly gets foremilk. At her last ped appointment DD didn't gain as much as she should, so I'm kinda feeling like a failure. Her ped wants us to come back in two weeks to check her weight. I'm hoping she gains enough by then.
sorry to hear this but you arent a failure!! have you joined the kellymom group? they can definitely help you to gauge whether her weight should be a concern or not.
also read this about foremilk
http://blog.nurturedchild.ca/index.php/2011/03/29/foremilk-and-hindmilk/
That article makes me feel better. I really should join the group because I definitely need some support, thanks
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| Posted 11/1/13 5:37 PM |
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MrsT809
LIF Adult
Member since 9/09 12167 total posts
Name:
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Re: Breastfeeding woes
Posted by Maybe-Baybe
Great thread. I'm also struggling here. My issue is that DD falls asleep while nursing and mostly gets foremilk. At her last ped appointment DD didn't gain as much as she should, so I'm kinda feeling like a failure. Her ped wants us to come back in two weeks to check her weight. I'm hoping she gains enough by then.
It's so hard when they're so sleepy in the beginning. I had a really tough time with DD bc she wouldn't wake up no matter what we did to the poor girl. Just remember that they're giving you those two weeks for a reason. They trust that she'll be okay and want you to succeed! When DD was a week or so old they told me to see a LC the very next day if I didn't want to supplement. I did and thankfully in the few extra days the ped gave me DD started to wake and eat more. I got freaked out again when DD was 4.5 months about how much she was eating and made the ped do a weight check. She was fine and I felt like a nut. He reassured me that they see them every month for a reason and she'll be fine.
One thing I wish I'd read in those early days is that they can nurse in their sleep. If you can get her to stay latched on, just leave her there for a bit. Hopefully that will stimulate a letdown eventually and when it does she will nurse, asleep or not! Also, whenever she starts to slow down or take a break, just nudge or stroke her chin or neck, whatever you can find that works for her. If you've already made it over a month you're sooo close to when things will get easier!
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| Posted 11/1/13 7:47 PM |
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Maybe-Baybe
My Sunshine
Member since 7/12 3415 total posts
Name:
My only Sunshine
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Re: Breastfeeding woes
Posted by MrsT809
Posted by Maybe-Baybe
Great thread. I'm also struggling here. My issue is that DD falls asleep while nursing and mostly gets foremilk. At her last ped appointment DD didn't gain as much as she should, so I'm kinda feeling like a failure. Her ped wants us to come back in two weeks to check her weight. I'm hoping she gains enough by then.
It's so hard when they're so sleepy in the beginning. I had a really tough time with DD bc she wouldn't wake up no matter what we did to the poor girl. Just remember that they're giving you those two weeks for a reason. They trust that she'll be okay and want you to succeed! When DD was a week or so old they told me to see a LC the very next day if I didn't want to supplement. I did and thankfully in the few extra days the ped gave me DD started to wake and eat more. I got freaked out again when DD was 4.5 months about how much she was eating and made the ped do a weight check. She was fine and I felt like a nut. He reassured me that they see them every month for a reason and she'll be fine.
One thing I wish I'd read in those early days is that they can nurse in their sleep. If you can get her to stay latched on, just leave her there for a bit. Hopefully that will stimulate a letdown eventually and when it does she will nurse, asleep or not! Also, whenever she starts to slow down or take a break, just nudge or stroke her chin or neck, whatever you can find that works for her. If you've already made it over a month you're sooo close to when things will get easier!
Yup, DD is a little over 5 weeks old. I guess I just have to think like the little engine that could...I think I can, I think I can
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| Posted 11/1/13 9:24 PM |
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Puppy-Love
LIF Adult
Member since 7/10 1394 total posts
Name:
J
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Re: Breastfeeding woes
Keep it up girls it is so worth it! I am almost at 13 months and still loving it!
I had some plugged duct issues too and mastitis (with 104 fever and the worst feeling EVER) but made it through. Whenever DD dropped a feeding I got lumps ugh but hot compacts and combing my boob in the shower (ouch) helped! Try latching your baby all different ways, football hold, nurse laying in bed, etc. It will help with her latch on that side.
Also FTR I didn't lose the rest of the weight until way later…like 12 months. My body held onto it like crazy. I tried not to let it bother me though!
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| Posted 11/1/13 11:05 PM |
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jab818
LIF Infant
Member since 10/12 254 total posts
Name:
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Breastfeeding woes
My lo is only 12 days old. My left side has a under developed nipple. I have been going to drs for it for the past 20 years. No one has ever seen it before. When my milk came in there was no exit for it. I cried for 2 days in pain. My body absorbed the milk and dried up the left side all on its own. My right is doing great! Lo is gaining weight and I am a pumping champion. My boobs are uneven but nothing a little stuffing can't take care of. The biggest thing I learned is I have to trust my body. As my pedi told me there are no starving babies in the amazon jungle.
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| Posted 11/2/13 6:59 AM |
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IVFmiracle
Complete
Member since 12/12 4088 total posts
Name:
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Re: Breastfeeding woes
Posted by Puppy-Love
Keep it up girls it is so worth it! I am almost at 13 months and still loving it!
I had some plugged duct issues too and mastitis (with 104 fever and the worst feeling EVER) but made it through. Whenever DD dropped a feeding I got lumps ugh but hot compacts and combing my boob in the shower (ouch) helped! Try latching your baby all different ways, football hold, nurse laying in bed, etc. It will help with her latch on that side.
Also FTR I didn't lose the rest of the weight until way later…like 12 months. My body held onto it like crazy. I tried not to let it bother me though!
What is combing the boob? Sounds excruciating!
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| Posted 11/2/13 9:04 PM |
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LSP2005
Bunny kisses are so cute!
Member since 5/05 19461 total posts
Name:
L
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Re: Breastfeeding woes
You need to nurse on the harder side first when the baby is the most hungry to have them suck out the plugs. I also would take a warm compress and place it onto the nipple to help soften them. HTH
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| Posted 11/2/13 9:53 PM |
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