Expert: ruth kraft - 12/12/2011

Question
I had to go to the ER on Friday for vomiting and low potassium and was given 3 different anti nausea medications just to get the vomiting under control.  I was also given some to take at home and on top of this my mother has been keeping my 8 month old while I recover so I have hardly nursed in 2 and a half days.  My son now sucks for hrs at night with no or only one let down.  I can also only get a few drops from pumping and hand expressing.  Is it too late to rebuild my milk supply or relactate?  I wasn't planning on weaning till he was at least 2 so I am very sad and he's hungry.

Answer
no it isnt too late. if yo even have a few drops you can build it back up. It just takes some effort. You can start power pumping. for about a week pump every hour during the day and 2 or 3 at night. until  you start seeing a big change. Let baby nurse as often as he will as that is even more effective than the pump. Increase your fiber intake, continue to take a prenatal vitimin and eat well. Plenty of fluids. You can also try mothers milk tea and fenugreek.

With some effort ( as if you had a newborn again ) you will bring it back with a little time. But it will pay off in the end!

I acknowledge your perseverance. Not many mothers would be willing to put such effort into this for their children :)