Expert: ruth kraft - 12/1/2009

Question
My son was born 4 weeks ago and I intended to breastfeed him.  Unfortunately he lost so much weight in the first week that we have had to supplement him with formula.  I have continued to breastfeed him and then give him formula afterwards.  Even after he has finished breastfeeding he still seems very hungry and will take 3 ounces of formula.  I have tried pumping in order to be sure he's eating well, but have not had much success.  When I pump I only get 1/2 ounce to an ounce.  How do I go about increasing my milk supply and ween him off of the formula?  

Thank you
Shannon

Answer
You can pump every 2 hours for the first week or so, drink mothers milk tea or take fenugreek capsules from the health food store. Stop giving the baby bottles and ONLY nurse. You can get a sns system ( supplimental nursing system ) from most lactation consultants or online, and feed him any extra pumped milk first, then formula second if needed. But only if he nurses from you. that way he gets the nurtition but stimulates your breasts. which is far more effective than the pump. Also, you should see someone in person to help evaluate is latch and position. La leche league leaders will do the evaluation for free.

I hope that helped !