Boobs, Boobs Boobs...

From the beginning I said that I wanted to breastfeed Avery. Simple as that. I did all the right things. I went to classes, bought my breast pump with all the bells and whistles, got the books, got the milk promoting tea, literally everything to make sure that I could breastfeed Avery. I thought that with all this preparation that nothing could go wrong.

The first two weeks of Avery’s existence I breastfed exclusively. We went to the pediatrician the first week and found out she was losing weight. This is typical for a newborn baby so we weren’t too worried but we had to go back. At our second visit we found out she lost even more weight. Considering my little peanut was only 6lbs 15.5oz upon arrival, it was very scary to find out that she lost almost a pound! I had no idea what was going on.

Our pediatrician sent us over to a lactation consultant to find out what was up. Turns out my little diva was pretending to swallow milk but wasn’t actually doing it. They called it a transfer issue and she was actually only getting a ½ oz when by this point she should be eating over 1.5oz-2oz. I felt terrible!! The lactation consultant told me to pump like a mad woman and supplement with formula.

Of course, formula was a bad word in my book. People drive into your head “breast is best” and anything else will ruin my child forever. Of course, I was nervous about giving it to her but again, didn’t want her starving to death. So, we tried it out and I’ve never seen Avery happier. Phew! And after our last pediatrician appointment she has almost gained that entire pound back. We are thrilled.

Now, my entire life revolves around my boobs. I breastfeed and pump almost all day and then supplement with formula. . More poor friends MK and Caler were victims to my day of boobs and had the pleasure of sitting there in my living room while I pumped in front of them for a good 30 minutes. Absolutely no modesty in this house. I’m fairly certain everyone in the neighborhood has seen my boobs as a shirt is really unnecessary at this point since I have it up for most of the day. I'm sure your all itching to come visit now, huh?

Despite my best efforts, my milk supply is extremely low. Of course, let’s add another obstacle in the mix. So I’ve been doing anything and everything in my power to get it up. I’ve eaten Oatmeal, taken vitamins, tea, relaxing, new pump, beer, hummus, pumping every two hours, every freaking thing you can read online. I’m hoping at some point it will kick in before my nipples fall off from the excessive pumping.

Bottom line, breast feeding has been the biggest bummer for me ever. I’m still trying but again, can understand why people switch to formula and would never pass judgment on anyone for doing so. Even with all the amazing advice and support, there is not much more I can do at this point besides sleeping with my pump or start leaving the house with my pump attached to my boobs. If it was possible and not illegal, I’d probably try it. 

If it were only that easy...