So we've been home from the hospital for one week. Justin and I had a mini-party at 5:20 p.m. last night for Jackson's 1 Week birthday. The first week went pretty well getting adjusted to being home. Because of his jaundice we had to have the phototherapy lights on Jackson most of the day and night, take him out for feedings, diaper changes, and when he was totally alert. He figured out how to kick the one off his tummy with his strong legs, so to say the least it was frustrating. Yesterday after our 3rd trip back to the hospital for blood work, his levels dropped to 12.4 and we got to discontinue using the machine.
Being a mom has been great. He wakes up 2-3 times a night, I think it's because he eats so much at each feeding he goes into a mini-food coma. We had to use formula when he was jaundice so we could actually see how much he ate, now he eats 3 oz. each feeding! I breast fed at the hospital, but now nothing is coming out, even with the nice pump we bought a few days ago. I mean nothing... I am really frustrated with breast feeding, Justin really wants it, but I just don't think I have enough to give Jackson. I'm sure some of you have been there.
I feel like I have way less time to be a hacker (good thing) so I've gotta run. More updates soon.
I'm glad Jackson's jaundice has dropped, it will be nice to not worry about your little fella. I tried pumping a few days after I had Westyn and it was a disaster as nothing came out but a few drops of colostrom(sp). I was told to give my body time as it needs to get used to breastfeeding before it can produce a lot of expressed milk via a pump. Good Luck! I'll look forward to the updates/
ReplyDeleteTara I can not wait to meet Mr.Jackson!!!! Sending love from everyone in the 'Ham :) xoxo
ReplyDeleteMine didn't come in for 10 days and they had me pumping 2 hours after the twins were born. Ouch! We did formula for the first two weeks or so until I built up my supply. I have to say the breastfeeding was a huge commitment and I was SO happy when we stopped :-). Just do what is right for you & don't let people pressure you either way. All you can do at this point with a newborn is get through the days!!! He is gorgeous.
ReplyDeleteLove the new pics! I ended up having to supplement the entire time as my boobs could only give him about half the amount of food he needed. So after 4 months of living on a breast pump and having a very fussy/hungry baby I turned to 100% formula. I will admit I miss it some times but the frustration finally outweighed the good. Do what you feel is right. You will find no matter what you do breastfeed, sleep schedule, baby gear, etc. someone will always have an opinion...so trust your gut, dig deep and let that maternal drive kick in. You know what is right for your family. He is going to be healthy either way you go. My door is always open if you need anything at all.
ReplyDeleteOMG! Love the pic of J & J at the bottom. Fantastic!
ReplyDeleteLove Jill
Hi Tara,
ReplyDeleteI'm a friend of Jessica Andrews, and came across your blog, so I've been following you and your pregnancy! Congratulations on a beautiful baby boy! He's absolutely precious! I just had my 2nd on June 30, a boy as well! About the breastfeeding thing...it's soooo hard and frustrating, I hear you! I had a breast reduction 13 years ago, so I'm the QUEEN of trying to build up supply, so here are a few things I did. I started on an herb called Fenugreek, I'm sure you've heard of it maybe? It's amazing, and you can get it almost anywhere like PCC or Whole Foods. You have to take 4 pills, 3 times a day. It will most likely increase your supply. Also, when you pump, try to look at the baby or smell one of his pampers while you're pumping (or before) and that might help with let-down. Here is a website that is awesome to help with breastfeeding: kellymom.com
Good luck, and trust yourself, you know what's right for you and Jackson!
Take care,
Anna
Thank you ladies for all your help. Really THANK YOU. I am seeing a lactation consultant tomorrow and have decided not to just "give up." I just needed a little cheerleading to get me back in the mood to try. :)
ReplyDeleteOk, one more thing! If pumping is hurting (it made me raw!) try putting a little bit of olive oil in the phalanges (sp?)and it will help "slide" things in a bit easier! :)
ReplyDeleteGood luck with your lactation appointment!
Anna
Your milk will come in...and it hurts!! But I think you'll be able to breast feed...only if you want to though!! HOpe you guys are doing good! He is such a cutie and totally looks like a boy:)
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