Beverley Rae:

I had a woman come to see me for assistance obtaining a breast pump for a
temp. weaning and to discuss some other bfg issues.  She had a big, healthy
looking 4 mo. old daughter who she was very worried about due to blood in the
stools which had persisted in spite of major maternal dietary changes and
restrictions.  They were due to see a pedi gastroenterologist within a few
days because the prob. would clear on 'hypoallergenic" formulas, but start up
when bfg was resumed. I saw a diaper (and photgraphed it!) There were a lot
of bloody strands, lots of mucus.  She reported lots of colic and spitting as
well, and yet here was this robust baby.  I supported the visit to the pedi
gi, but suggested she go to one-breast-per-feed  etc. based on the
Fisher-Woolridge lactose over-load theory.  Within two days of changing the
feed management in this way the mother reported the problem had completely
resolved. I ph. her sev. mo later and she told me it never returned.  I was
just as surprised as she was.  I asked Michael Woolridge about this case in
Scottsdale, and he told me he wasn't surprised about either the dramatic
symptoms or their resolution.  He said they are pretty aware of this in the
UK and don't see it as much now that they know about the relationship between
" too much milk", lactose "over-feeding" and gi problems.  I have to say that
I think dairy elim. is a hardship for many moms and that bovine protein
allergy -- while real -- may occur less freq. than it is commonly held to
appear.  I usually try altering the pattern of breast delivery FIRST when I
see this type prob.  If that doesn't do it (which it usually does) then I
work on dietary elim. etc.  While I have not seen research on this issue, I
think the problem of 'over-supply' increases with parity.  I have some
families where I've now see 2-3 of their children.  When I see a primip with
this problem, I try to provide some anticipatory guidance if they plan more
children.

BTW the very sad mom I was on my soapbox about a few weeks ago is doing
great!  I've seen her several times a week for weight checks and fine-tunings
of the positioning.  The baby has been gaining, and so has her confidence.
 She presented with a baby with almost total breast refusal.  Now baby mold
and clings and pats as he nurses -- gazing lovingly into her eyes all the
while.  Dad has come around -- turns out he's a diabetic.  His engineer's
mind  was only persuaded that bfg was not "taking too much time" when he was
presented with journal arts. re:  protect. benefits of bfg in preventing
diabetes.   I love this work!

Barbara Wilson-Clay, BSE,IBCLC priv. pract. Austin, Tx