Feeling so horrible! ( long vent)

I posted already today about my formula issues, but I am at the point where I feel like maybe I am not cut out to be a mom. I feel so sad and upset about his digestive issues that I cry and have to have my mom take the baby and get him to calm down. He is on his third formula- Neocate. He has been on it for 4 days and I feel like I do not see a difference yet. He seems ok 1st day on it but it has been down hill from there. He has been constipated so not sure if that what is making him scream after eating. I have anxiety about feedings. I just wish he could tell me what it is- is it the food? is it because it is constipated? If this formula does not work what else can be done!! I am feeling so overwhelmed I do not know what to do. My mom thinks he is colic but it happens after he eats and then continues for half hour to hour- then starts up again at next feeding. I am feeling like I am not going to be a good mother!!!!! Wondering if I should have tried Elecare instead of Neocate!! I just do not know!!! This has been a roller coaster since the begining!! He was a premie- in Nicu for 2 weeks and now this and I feel so sad for him. Thanks for letting me vent!

Re: Feeling so horrible! ( long vent)

I am so sorry you are going through this! While I don't have any experience with this per se, but I would def. recommend renting "The happiest baby on the block"..if it is colic he offers 5 wonderful strategies for helping soothe a crying baby.

Good luck!!!!

Re: Feeling so horrible! ( long vent)

Sorry I don't have any advice
I hope things get better soon!

Re: Feeling so horrible! ( long vent)

I don't have any advice as far your specific formula goes, but I wanted to offer !!
My DD was in a lot pf pain after her feedings as a newborn, I switched to a sensitive formula and drop in bottles. Luckily, that did the trick for her.
You will be a great mom, definitely don't let this get you down on yourself! You're doing the best you can right now!

Re: Feeling so horrible! ( long vent)

I switched my DD to Nutromigen by Enfamil and use Dr Brown bottles. Also if you think its gas related try putting the mylicon drops right into the bottles. I used to put them in every bottle. If its constipation the nutromigen may work, it gave DD very loose stool since the formula is pretty much completely broken down. HTH and good luck. I know how hard a screaming baby is.. I would sit up with her and just cry with her.

Re: Feeling so horrible! ( long vent)

Ohh being a new mom is soooo hard. Just take a deep breath, and know that you are a fabulous mother. Formulas take a while to see any improvement, and I will be honest...I switched formula after formula and finally wound up with a perscription formula. BUT each time I switched I would think there would be this major turn around and the true solution is really just time. Time will pass and things WILL get better. Its hard to see the light now, but it truly does. Have you looked into reflux issues?

Re: Feeling so horrible! ( long vent)

I have no advice on formula-- but don't feel like a bad mom!! The beginning is so hard and you have no idea what they need. I promise you will figure it out and it will get easier.

If he is colicky-- have you tried the Happiest Baby on the Block methods?? They really work wonders-- get the book or DVD!!

Message edited 12/21/2009 8:47:54 PM.

Re: Feeling so horrible! ( long vent)

being a new mom is SO tough

hang in there, it gets better

Re: Feeling so horrible! ( long vent)

I am so sorry and I know how you feel. DD was just about on every formula out there. She would either spit up constantly, or scream, be constipated. There were times you feel like the worst mother in the world. She was ok during the feedings..it was afterwards I dreaded. My mom would always say "this too shall pass" and ya know what...it did. Hang in there. You are doing as fine job as a mom!

Re: Feeling so horrible! ( long vent)

Posted by karanthony

I am so sorry you are going through this! While I don't have any experience with this per se, but I would def. recommend renting "The happiest baby on the block"..if it is colic he offers 5 wonderful strategies for helping soothe a crying baby.

Good luck!!!!

Re: Feeling so horrible! ( long vent)

Oh I'm so sorry you're going through this!!! From what you post it really does sound like a digestive issue, not colic (which tends to be at the same time each day, not usually right after feedings). Has your pediatrician helped at all? Did they rule out allergies, etc. yet???
You are NOT a bad mommy, this is the really HARD part - he is SO so so new, about a month right??? Every baby is different but their systems are just so immature at this point, there's still a lot going on in there!!! Please do whatever you need to do to remain sane and calm, thank goodness you have your mom, I'm sure she's happy to pick up DS when you're at your breaking point so DO NOT feel guilty at all. You're a great mom, and these "kinks" WILL get better!!!!