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Breastfeeding/Pumping & 1st Post Partum Period
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Question
Hi. Exactly 1 week ago, I had to start pumping exclusively and bottle feed my 7 week old son. It is just temporary as he is having some issues processing milk enzymes and is now on a hypoallergenic formula per doc orders and we will be slowly reintroducing breast milk. So, I have been pumping exclusively for 1 week now. I started spotting four days into this process and now, i week later I am bleeding as heavily as a period? Is this normal?
Hello Lisa - Chances are that your body may just still be recovering from the delivery and you possible have just a bit more healing to do. But, do check in with your doctor so they can do a quick internal check. With breastfeeding, you shouldn't be getting your menstrual cycle back yet, but again, your doctor will be able to tell you. But, at just 7 weeks post delivery, it most likely is part of the normal healing process. But, do see your doctor for total peace of mind. All the best
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Answers by Expert:
Sue Ennis
Expertise
I am looking to support the segment of mothers that encounter engorgement issues that prevent them from continuing to breastfeeding, those that do not breastfeed or are ready to start weaning. As an aside, I wish to add that questions asked in terms of those not breastfeeding will not be given guilt for their choice. In many forums, including this one, there is currently no category developed for this "not breastfeeding" audience. I do believe that breastfeeding is best for both mother and child, however, I believe more strongly that there is a lack of support for the woman that for either personal or medical reasons cannot breastfeed. My strengths would be in answering questions related to stopping breast milk production comfortably either right after delivery or after nursing their children for some time, reducing breast engorgement pain and dealing with overactive lactation. Questions I would not try to answer are those tied to emotional feelings as I feel many times women that don't/can't breastfeed struggle with it...and that should be directed to the appropriate counseling channel.
Experience
I am the inventor and founder of LaMa Bra and for years have researched the human body functions, both in process and emotions/hormones to develop a bra to help mother slow or stop their breast milk.
Education/Credentials
I hold a BS in General Biology, a MS in Human Nutrition and an MBA in Marketing.
Also, am the the founder of LaMa Bra found at http://www.lamabra.com that has helped many women with engorgement while breastfeeding and through stages of weaning when ready to stop breastfeeding.
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