back to breastfeeding after formula-is it possible?

Question

i breastfed for five weeks, then had to switch to formula because i got mastitis and the majority of my milk dried up. i am thinking of trying to go back to breastfeeding to help me quit smoking and keep my alcohol cravings under control. i wanted to know about the lactation medicines, the transition process and how long do i have to wait if tch is in my system.

Answer 1

Yes, it is possible to relactate, especially since you nursed for 5 weeks. It's even better if your baby is still under 4 months old. First, I do want to let you know that, as someone who has had mastitis three times, the best treatment for it is to nurse as much as possible. It sounds like perhaps someone gave you some bad advice when you had it, resulting in your milk drying up.

Relactation has two important steps. First, you need to remind baby how to nurse at the breast, and help them remember that nursing is comforting for them. Then you also need to reestablish your milk supply.

To reestablish your supply, you need lots of nipple stimulation from baby nursing and pumping. It doesn't matter if baby is getting any milk (at first) from nursing, just do it as often as possible. One great way to do this is to use a Supplemental Nursing System (SNS). This is basically a bag that holds formula, attached to a feeding tube. Baby sucks on the feeding tube while nursing at the breast, which helps you get your needed nipple stimulation and feed baby at the same time, while also helping remind them how to nurse. Nurse every 2-3 hours, and also offer the breast for comfort if you see the opportunity (going to sleep is a good time for this).

You also need to take care of yourself. Get plenty of water and protein in your diet, because these are two of the three key ingredients in breastmilk (fat is the third). You can also use certain foods an supplements to increase your supply. Oatmeal is a good supply-booster, as are the supplements Fenugreek, Blessed Thistle, and Mothers Milk tea.

Also call your local LLL Leader for help and support. Lots of luck and warm wishes to you and your babe!

Answer 2

Okay, first of all, mastitis does not mean that you have to quit breastfeeding! It is an infection in your tissue, not your milk! Breastfeeding could actually help decrease the pain and swelling associated with mastitis.
Second: Start pumping milk right now. Breast milk is on a needed basis, meaning that the more that comes out, the more your body will make, so start pumping! It may be hard for your baby to latch on right now, b/c of the reduced mass of your breasts, but it is still possible. Talk to your doctor, and let him know that you are interested in trying to breastfeed again, and he will let you know about the medicines..

Answer 3

Yes, it is possible for you to relactate. You should contact your local La Leche League Leader for one-on-one help with getting nursing re-established.

Answer 4

dont smoke and leave to take alcohalic drinks and cusult your doc and drink lot of milk and also take a good food.