in Breastfeeding/Nursing & pumping Mamas

FTM breastfeeding help

Hi all, I am a first time mum and my baby is 10 days old. I had a C-section and didn’t start off initially breastfeeding due to how I was feeling after the section. On day 3, I saw a lactation specialist who helped me begin my BF journey with the help of silicone nipple shields to transition her. Since then, she has exclusively breastfed but will only latch using the nipple shields. I’m wondering how I can ween her off the shields or, if there’s any issue with using them permanently if it’s working for us. Also, I’m worried about my supply/whether she is getting enough milk. I’m barely getting anything when pumping, maybe .5 oz from both breasts combined, an oz at a push. She’s feeding every 2/3ish hours at the minute and I am having to wake her for feeds through the night. Is the amount I’m pumping an indication of low milk supply or does this seem normal, I’m feeling a little disheartened.

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Are you in the uk? The breastfeeding network on Facebook have an open inbox where trained volunteers reply, they helped me so so much xx

@Kimberley yes I am! Thanks so much x

I used nipple shields until I could wean my baby off them at 4 months old. He’s still breastfeeding at 15 months! It sounds like a totally normal feeding pattern for a newborn and continuing to latch frequently is how you create supply and demand. Pumping is not an indication of your supply. Frequent wet nappies, gradual weight gain are your best indicators of your supply. I would recommend asking your HV or midwife to put you in touch with your local feeding team as they can be a great support. Or, I personally found my local NCT breastfeeding cafe a much more positive experience and they were so supportive, especially me using nipple shields and being helpful and encouraging vs some health professionals that were critical

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