new mum's

Hi there, Ive been feeding my boy for eight weeks now and am sometimes confused by his behaviour. He was in a 'routine' (i use this word loosely) of 6 ish feeds over 24 hours for 40 mins per feed, these last few days he has changed to between 4 - 5 feeds during the day of about only 25 mins per feed and wakens for about a ten min feed during night. Im assuming when he starts crying on my breast during the feed that he doesnt want more, he struggles to latch back on and seams to be refusing the breast. i feel that he isnt getting enough because he has cut almost 15 mins off each feed time. Is this because he feeds better, is he getting enough and im worrying for no reason?

I am feeling a great sense of loss this week, as my five month old is basically allergic to my milk. She has a cows milk protein intolerance. Even though I cut out all the dairy and soy from my diet there was still something bothering her. The pediatric gastrointeroligist said that sometime they can't figure it out and the best thing to do is to go to formula. She is on a special formula which has the proteins broke down into smaller pieces so it is easier for her to digest. I am reminded daily of the fact that I would still love to be nursing her, my breasts are so swollen and sore from not being able to release the milk. The doc told me not to pump or supplement because I would just be prolonging the inevitable. If anyone else has had a similar experience and wants to talk I am here.

Thanks for your reply & advice... I have been to see my doc as the pain got unbearable over the weekend and was told I have a mild case of Mastitus. I have been given some anti-biotics and am feeling better already. Things are now on the up & im really chuffed that I can go on feeding my liitle man... I was almost to the point of giving up and was feeling really guilty as I fed my 1st son with no problems for a whole year.
Thanks again, xx.

Hi, I've had 2 babies and breast fed both, you could have mastitus, in which case the best thing for you to do is carry on feeding your baby. However if you begin to feel unwell or get a temperature you must see your doctor.
Mastitus occurs when your milk duct gets blocked, so it needs to be cleared. Hot bath can help and putting cabbage leaves over your breast may help too!!! I'd try the hot bath first!! But if you feel concerned a trip to the doctor is a good idea.

Hi there - I have been breastfeeding my gorgeous 2nd son succesfully for the last 18 weeks... Everything has been going well until the last few days when I developed a really painful boobie. I find that after the the first couple feeds, my right breast starts to ache and this slowly develops into horrible shooting pains in the nipple and deep in the breast. I've noticed that the centre of the nipple turns white and appears to have congealed milk which I can pick out with my fingernail. The pain usually subsides by mid aternoon, although my nipple is still tender. Has anyone else suffered with this problem? If so, I would really appreciate some advice on how to get rid of this pain... It's driving me bonkers!! Thanks, Michelle

hi tasha, yes you do get a photo of your scan but normally you have to pay between £3 & £5 & there's nothing to worrie about a scan's fine you will love the 1st time you see you baby on screen it's amazing remeber to drink plenty of ater you scan photo will come out better i was 19 when i had my 1st boy jake time fly so make the most of little one when he/she arrives takecare laine x x