I have been breast feeding my baby for 2 months - I have had an over-supply of milk since the milk came in. It is very painful and has caused stretch-marks. Is there any thing that I can do to make my milk supply meet (not exceed) what my baby needs? I've tried cabbage leaves and feeding from one side until that side is empty before switching. My baby is growing and thriving - but it is difficult to feed, since I am drowning him in milk (he chokes and sputters on it because the let-down is so forceful) and I am tired of always having wet clothes!
Thanks
2007-02-24 12:04:54 · 5 answers · asked by Cyndi B 2 in Pregnancy & Parenting ➔ Newborn & Baby
I would check out kellymom.com for some great advice - that's where i went for the same problem.
My letdown stayed very fast for about 5-6 months - so I kept a towel handy and delatched after the letdown to soak up a bit before relatching. But that kept my supply the same, but it helps the pressure a bit. Also - Lansinoh breast pads are awesome - they absorb a ton!
I did block feedings for a while and that seemed to help - basically only feed the baby on one side for 2-3 feedings and then switch.
good luck, hope something works for you, but that site is an awesome source of info....
2007-02-24 12:10:47 · answer #1 · answered by Rae T 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Since breastmilk production is based on supply and demand try not to remove any milk other then what the baby is taking. Having said that, pumping or expressing milk for a couple of minutes until the most forceful letdown passes may be beneficial. Feed the baby with his head in an upright position (such as a high football hold) so that gravity is working with him. Consult a lactation consultant - usually available through a Community or Public Health agency or attend a La Leche League meeting in your area.
2007-02-24 20:52:49 · answer #2 · answered by prmetime99 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
If you can hang on for about 4 more weeks i think your body will be able to regulate this all on its own...you arent pumping are you? if you are ...you need to lay off the pump...just pump fewer times per day or less amount of time each time ...gradually decrease....eating pure mint can reduce supply....like make a tea of pure peppermint leaves or spearmint leaves.....but like i said., this is likely to rectify itsellf VERY soon....as for baby choking on all the good stuff....try holding him in the 'football hold' - also known as the 'french bread hold" he is upright, his body is alongside your body ....this way, you can lean back a bit...milk has to flow 'uphill' and baby can be more comfortable.....hang in there!
2007-02-24 21:59:31 · answer #3 · answered by motherhendoulas 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
This happened to me too and if i were you I wouldn't change anything. Because, your milk supply will eventually level out to whatever your baby needs. You are lucky to have that much milk! Just hang in there and it'll work itself out. Good luck!
2007-02-24 21:28:30 · answer #4 · answered by Landi 2 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Well I wouldn't do anything to decrease your supply, that may have undesireable effects. You can rent medical grade breast pumps that will take away the gorged feeling. If you sign up with WIC you can borrow their medical grade pumps for free.
2007-02-24 20:11:41 · answer #5 · answered by beanie_babymama 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋