If any of you have info on bf and the effect  of cardiomyopathy, maybe even
the effects of bf on the cardiac system in general,  please let me know
ASAP.

The word just came down that the cardiologist told the mom that she would
NOT be able to nurse her baby.  She was quite sad about that, I am told, and
had an emotional day.  I am sad for her too.  I am also encouraged to see
that she had really wanted to nurse (maybe the idea of donated milk will be
considered) and that she is lucid enough to feel these emotions.

I just got off the phone with my personal cnm-ob/gyn who said that she is
angered that bf is so expendable and that nursing could possibly relax,
sooth and heal this mom.  She suggested another opinion.  She does not see
how lactation would effect the cardiovascular system.  Maybe the LC at
Hopkins can help
in this regard.  She should see this mom anyway because her milk
will most likely be coming soon.

I have to find the best route to suggest a second opinion about bf to the
mom.
Maybe the Lactation Consultant at Hopkins.  How do I
convince her that Dr.'s usually get lactation information wrong.  ( JAMA
survey for example???)
A specialist at Hopkins who I hope will save her life?  I need to do some
homework on this.  I know that the first step is usually to ask the Dr.. to
produce
information that bf is contraindicated.  Usually, it turns out to be a
matter of opinion and then the discussion can begin.  Does he have any sense
of the hormonal and emotional soothing benefits of nursing????To be fair,
maybe it is the medication.  But, so far, I've checked everything she is on
and it's all OK.

The baby will be transferred to Johns Hopkins so
that she can be near her mom, in mom's room all day and have the nursery do
the specialized care.  They now think she we 33 weeks, not 35.    She was
really not ready to be released, but the were expediting it to re-unite mom
and baby.  This plan is better.  We have postponed my trip until the baby is
released now that mom and baby  will be reunited.  They will need me when
baby comes home.  The right set of
arms will hold her now.

Joanne

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