Me as dry as *seaweed*
Week 7
Breastfeeding can be easy for some, but definitely not for everyone. Why I dare to say this?
feed one baby = 15-30mins
(sometimes got to repeat feeding after a while if cry/wake up cry from sleep again)
feeding interval = 1 1/2hour-2 hourly
(if awake and wee too much, will cry again for milk after 1 hour)
See how much time I have in between every 2 hours to rest/sleep?
QQ’s time
Even though she is my first child, I managed to breastfeed her exclusively without having to use any formula throughout her first year. As a first time mother, my bf journey was difficult in the beginning (with latching or sore nipple problem), I still manage to do it (with lots of extra storage in my freezer) although I was working at that time.
Now with the twins
I would say it is “supply” or “feeding time management” problem. I used all sorts of method (including taking Maxolon pills to increase my milk, drink all sorts of soup and milkmaid tea), nothing seems to help to increase my supply to the stage where I can do without formula. Unlike last time, this time I do not even experience engorgement, just imagine!! The boys suck me so dry until I actually feel pain after they extract all milk out from me.
Demand = Supply??
I am not sure of this anymore. They just would not seem to let go of me even though already asleep (I know they are treating me as their pacifier with their sucking method). The moment I remove them, they will wake again.
So now what I do each time is to time my feeding. I limit to 10mins per side. If they still cry or cannot sleep, I get maid to shove bottle of formula into their mouth until they no longer wanna drink.
But I am going to take the last attempt, by seeing Dr.Koe next week. If result still the same, ok, I give up on bf exclusively!
Actually it’s extremely painful for you to let them suck on you when your boobs are empty. I know..
It’s a really difficult journey..and even tho this is my third kid, this experience for me is really different..and more painful. so I know how you feel. Breastfeeding babies are different for every mums…just like all babies are different.
Are u seeing Dr.Koe for some medication to help your supply? I tried it before for No.2..it helps but only temporarily.. I think you still need to maintain your fluids and drink like a camel.
But whatever your decision is…. I support you. You’ve come a long way already..and your twins look very healthy! take care chinnee..
i think u did your best edi, you have given them the best. As long as they are healthy, that’s the most important thing.
Like Mott say, your twins do look nourished and very healthy. If really kenot continue with this then it’s ok too… For me, milk seemed a lot during the 1st week… now almost 3 weeks old edi, my boob don’t really have engorgement… wonder if she’s drinking it all up (with Izac’s help :S). But one thing is for sure, as long as they’re sukcing at the boobs, they’ll surely get milk… I’ve seen her softly sucking and when she tertidur, the milk kinda trickle down her face.
worst of all, i don have the leisure time to wait. each time i feed one, i am kinda rush coz scared the other one waking up soon (dono y, they always like to wake up / cry same time wan). So when the other one will start moving. the most i can do is try to pat the bb back to sleep (only can tahan awhile), while praying for the first one to quickly complete his meal. some stress, i would say, especially in the mid of the nite when i am alone with them.
aiyooo u really stress la…i know coz when u hear ur babies cry and can’t immediately pacify them - that’s tough man…but dun need to stop bf totally, just give them leisurely when u have la…then maybe u dun expect so much from your body and can enjoy feeding the boys again!! hang in there…
U already done yr very best…
Yes Chinnee, u have done your very best and bf twins is not easy though, even with one some can face a lot of problem ler. Relax and stay calm, try your best and I’m sure u can do it.
Yeah… dun stress urself up abt bfg exclusively. It’s not ez to do it exclusively with 1 child, wat more we’re talking abt twins here. As long as u’ve tried ur best, there won’t be any regrets, rite. Moreover, supplementing with formula is still better than not bfg at all.
I suggest you feed them BM whenever you can/have. When there are not enough, supplement with formula. I think it perfectly fine. Don’t over stress yourself. When stress come, milk don’t come. About the crying and wake up together, try to put them to sleep separately. It might help. I don’t really know but just an idea.
Sometimes stress or lack of sleep can reduce the supply of milk.
Not to feel guilty your supply can’t meet their demand. It’s hectic to take care of 2 new born baby, getting some supplement from formula should be okay. For good thing, they can accept formula now and you have no problem to switch it next time.
Dont feel despair Chin Nee.
Your determination will pull you through but the stress u r undergoing fro fear that your bb will cry and that u dont have enuf rest..all these would certainly affects your hormone and depress the milk production. I know it’s not easy. I was very lucky i manage to do it successfully with my twins but it wasnt easy ..at times very “mang chang also’. Give yourself a break..continue bonding and do things that are pleasantly nice and can boost your hormone to produce milk supply. I still believe in “the more milk is given out or expressed..the more supply you get.You need to eradicate the stress factor. put some nice music, aromatherapy and make sure just you and the bb in the room when you breastfeed.If QQ wants to be in, make sure no noise. Try that. Good luck. I knw u wont give up easily. U said it because you are geram.
aii, i also facing the lack of breast milk problem. I think is because too tired.
i’m sure u know what is the best for ur twins!
I am facing the same problem now, since 3rd week
Agreed with Mrs Wallace. Stress come, milk don’t come… BF is hard job for mommy and not to say for 2 babies. U have done so good so far…
i can feel ur frustration n stress. it is ok if u cant bf exclusively for them. u have done ur best. dun keep on putting pressure on ur self. i think u will b more relax n can have more rest if they r not exclusively bf…. take care
hi chinnee
you must really give yourself a
pat on the back now! your boys are gorgeous…don’t stress overly with the milk volume thingy
You have done your best. I know its not easy, even with one its difficult, what more 2. Do what you think would be best for all concerned.
take it easy, dont stress yourself.
u sounded very stress yrself cnee….i think that would only add worse to the situation! Dun ever blame yrself as u r having 2 babies now so it’s not fair to compare with single baby! Definitely supply WILL NOT equal to demand!!
Just try yr best…lesser b/f better than not at all !!
good luck to you & babies!!
ur really very terror already, can see u have done ur best lor
all the best
Stress can really decrease the supply. The milkmaid tea did not help to increase your supply?
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